Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

Featured in: Global Street Food

This hearty chili combines ground meat, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning for a rich, comforting dish. Prepared in a slow cooker, it requires minimal effort—just brown the meat, mix ingredients, and let them simmer for hours. The result is a flavorful, nourishing meal that fits busy schedules and invites optional toppings like cheese or jalapeños for personalization. Adaptable for vegetarian diets and gluten-free-friendly, it’s a great choice for effortless, tasty dining.

Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 11:19:00 GMT
Savory Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili, steaming hot and ready, perfect for a cozy dinner. Save
Savory Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili, steaming hot and ready, perfect for a cozy dinner. | fryzia.com

A ridiculously easy, hearty chili that requires just four pantry staples—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

This slow cooker chili has become my go-to comfort meal when I need something simple yet satisfying.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • Kidney beans: 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • Diced tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) diced tomatoes with juices
  • Chili seasoning mix: 1 packet (1.25 oz / 35 g) chili seasoning mix

Instructions

Step 1:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Step 2:
Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
Step 3:
Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), and chili seasoning mix to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Step 4:
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
Step 5:
Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Hearty Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili brimming with beef and beans, a comforting American classic. Save
Hearty Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili brimming with beef and beans, a comforting American classic. | fryzia.com

This recipe always brings the family together around the dinner table, sharing stories and hearty laughs over warm bowls of chili.

Required Tools

Slow cooker, large skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, can opener

Allergen Information

Contains no major allergens in the base recipe but check chili seasoning packet for possible gluten, soy, or milk derivatives. Always check labels if you have allergies or intolerances.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 350, Total Fat 11 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 28 g

A close-up of the delicious Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili, ready to be topped and devoured. Save
A close-up of the delicious Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili, ready to be topped and devoured. | fryzia.com

This simple chili recipe will quickly become a meal-time favorite that saves you time without sacrificing flavor.

Recipe FAQ Section

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and offers a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.

What bean type is best for this dish?

Kidney beans are traditional, providing hearty texture and absorbing the seasoning perfectly.

How can I adjust the spice levels?

Modify heat by selecting milder or spicier chili seasoning or adding cayenne pepper to taste.

Are there vegetarian options for this dish?

Swap ground meat for plant-based crumbles and consider adding an extra can of beans for protein.

What toppings complement this chili best?

Try shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, or diced onions to enhance flavor and texture.

How long should I cook it in a slow cooker?

Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours to develop rich, blended flavors.

Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

A hearty chili made easy with four simple pantry staples, ideal for cozy dinners or gatherings.

Prep duration
5 min
Cook duration
360 min
Complete duration
365 min
Created by Samantha Rivera

Classification Global Street Food

Complexity Level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portion Count

Dietary considerations No Dairy, No Gluten

Components

Proteins

01 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey

Beans

01 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables

01 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

Seasonings

01 1 packet (1.25 oz) chili seasoning mix

Preparation Steps

Phase 01

Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles during cooking. Drain excess fat if needed.

Phase 02

Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

Phase 03

Combine Ingredients: Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juices, and chili seasoning mix to the slow cooker. Stir until evenly combined.

Phase 04

Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.

Phase 05

Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if desired. Serve hot with preferred toppings.

Necessary tools

  • Slow cooker
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Can opener

Allergy information

Review all ingredients for potential allergens and consult with healthcare providers if you're uncertain about any item.
  • Check chili seasoning mix for potential gluten, soy, or milk derivatives.

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are approximate and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy Value: 350
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Protein Content: 28 g