There’s something about settling into the cozy hum of a crock pot bubbling away on the counter that just feels like home. This high protein beef chili is exactly that kind of comfort—slow-cooked to tender perfection, with beans and spices melding into a rich, thick stew. I remember one afternoon when I left the house for hours, distracted by errands, and returned to this deep, smoky aroma filling the kitchen. It wasn’t just dinner waiting; it was a warm invitation to slow down and savor something hearty. The slight hesitation before the first bite—wondering if it’s too spicy or just right—turns into a satisfied sigh with every spoonful. It’s the kind of meal that’s forgiving and familiar, even if you’re juggling a dozen things at once.
Why You’ll Love It
- Hearty and nourishing, this chili packs in protein without feeling heavy.
- Set it and forget it—great for busy days, but honestly, it’s worth the wait for the rich flavor development.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps, just wholesome ingredients doing their thing.
- Perfect for batch cooking and leftovers that taste even better the next day.
- Spice levels can be adjusted, but don’t expect a bland dish—this one has personality.
If you’re a bit unsure about slow cooking, remember it’s mostly hands-off, so it’s hard to go wrong. Just stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
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High Protein Beef Chili Crock Pot
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A hearty and high-protein beef chili slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot. Packed with lean ground beef, beans, and bold spices, this chili is perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
1 cup low sodium beef broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened.
Transfer the cooked beef, onion, and garlic mixture to the crock pot.
Add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, and beef broth to the crock pot.
Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6 hours.
After cooking, stir the chili and taste to adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
Kitchen Notes
Using a standard crock pot makes this chili a breeze, and you don’t need any special gear to get it right. For serving, I usually go with a scoop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top—sometimes, a handful of fresh cilantro if I’m feeling fancy. You could switch up the beans or toss in some chopped bell peppers for texture, though I haven’t tested all those combos. On a colder day, I like pairing this chili with warm cornbread or over a bed of rice to soak up every bit of that sauce.
FAQ
Can I make this chili in advance? Definitely. It actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded overnight in the fridge.
Is it very spicy? It has a nice kick but isn’t overwhelming. You can always ease up on the cayenne pepper if you prefer milder heat.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, freeze in portions for up to three months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What’s the best way to reheat? Stove top on medium heat with occasional stirring, or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out.
When you’re ready to dive into something comforting, filling, and easy, this high protein beef chili crock pot meal is ready to answer the call. Give it a try and let that slow-cooked goodness warm up your day.