Introduction
Chili is the ultimate comfort food, especially when it’s simmering away in a slow cooker, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that invite everyone to the table. This Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili with a Veggie Boost takes the classic recipe and elevates it, making it more nutritious and appealing to all ages. Packed with hearty beans, tender turkey (or your preferred protein), and a colorful array of vegetables, this chili not only warms the soul but also sneaks in those essential nutrients that growing kids—and adults—need.
Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe is simple to prepare and allows for flexibility with ingredients according to what you have on hand. Whether you prefer a mild flavor or a spicy kick, this chili can be easily customized to suit your family’s taste buds. Serve it with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro, and you’ll have a wholesome meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Grab your slow cooker, and let’s get ready to create a dish that will leave your family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 medium zucchini, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups vegetable broth or water
- Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for topping
Instructions
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- In a sizable skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned. Drain off any excess fat and move the meat to the slow cooker.
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- Incorporate the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and grated carrot into the slow cooker with the beef.
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- Mix in the black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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- Add the vegetable broth (or water) and gently stir everything until fully combined.
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- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
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- After the cooking time is complete, give the chili a thorough stir. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
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- Serve the chili hot in bowls and enhance with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, a spoonful of sour cream, or slices of avocado.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 6-8 hours | Servings: 6-8
Key Ingredients
- Ground Meat (Beef, Turkey, or Plant-Based): 1 lb (450g) for protein and heartiness.
- Canned Beans: 2 cans (15 oz each) of your choice—black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans—for fiber and texture.
- Canned Tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes to create a flavorful base.
- Vegetables: 1 cup of chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) and 1 cup of diced zucchini or carrots for added nutrition and a veggie boost.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, diced for a fragrant base.
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced for an aromatic flavor.
- Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons to add warmth and depth.
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon for a warm, earthy flavor.
- Oregano: 1 teaspoon for a hint of herbal brightness.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste for seasoning.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: 1 cup to help bring everything together.
- Optional Toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro, or green onions for serving.
Baking Process
While this recipe focuses primarily on slow cooking, a delicious twist can be added by incorporating a baking step toward the end to create a cozy, baked chili dish ideal for family dinners. Here’s how to elevate your Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili with a veggie boost through baking:
Ingredients for Baking
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Optional: 1 cup crushed tortilla chips or cornbread crumbs for topping
Instructions
- Slow Cook Your Chili:
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Follow the steps for your Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili with a Veggie Boost recipe as directed. Allow the chili to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the flavors meld and the veggies are tender.
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Prepare for Baking:
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Once the chili is cooked, give it a good stir to combine all ingredients completely. Check for seasoning and adjust if necessary, adding salt, pepper, or extra spices to taste.
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Preheat the Oven:
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If you’re planning on baking your chili, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Transfer the Chili:
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Carefully transfer your cooked chili from the slow cooker to an oven-safe dish. A casserole dish or a large cast-iron skillet works wonderfully for this.
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Layer Your Cheesy Topping:
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Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the chili. If you desire a crunchy texture, you can also sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or cornbread crumbs on top of the cheese.
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Bake Until Bubbly:
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Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
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Let it Rest:
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Once baked, remove the chili from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve your baked chili hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired. Pair with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy this heartwarming dish with your family!
By adding this baking step, you not only enhance the flavors and textures of your chili but also create an appealing dish that’s sure to be a hit at your family table!
Serving Suggestions
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Toppings Galore: Elevate your chili by offering a variety of toppings for family members to customize their bowls. Consider options like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocados, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.
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Bread Pairings: Serve chili with warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread to soak up all the delicious flavors. For a fun twist, try serving it with tortilla chips or homemade tortilla strips for added crunch.
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Crafty Combo: Turn your chili into a fun meal by preparing simple side dishes like a fresh garden salad or roasted veggies. This adds color and additional nutrients to the table.
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Chili-Style Nachos: Transform leftovers into a hearty nacho platter! Layer tortilla chips with leftover chili, cheese, and your choice of toppings, then bake until bubbly. Perfect for game day or a casual family night!
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Chili Dogs: Spice up hot dog night by topping grilled or roasted hot dogs with warm chili and your favorite toppings. This is a fun and kid-friendly way to enjoy chili in a new form.
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Stuffed Peppers: If you have any chili leftover, consider using it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. Mix the chili with cooked rice or quinoa, stuff the peppers, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender.
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DIY Chili Bar: Make it interactive! Set up a DIY chili bar where family members can build their own bowls with chili and toppings. This is especially fun for gatherings or family movie nights.
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Complimentary Drinks: Offer beverages that pair well with the chili, such as sweet iced tea, lemonade, or even a light lager for the adults. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with lime.
By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can enhance your Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili experience and create a cozy, engaging meal for everyone to enjoy together!
Conclusion
This Family-Friendly Slow Cooker Chili with a Veggie Boost is not only a delicious and comforting dish but also a fantastic way to sneak extra nutrients into your family’s meals. With its rich blend of beans, tomatoes, and an array of colorful vegetables, this chili is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The slow cooking method allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
With its adaptability, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your family’s tastes and dietary preferences—whether that means adjusting the spice level, adding different veggies, or incorporating your favorite proteins. Plus, leftovers can be stored in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating, making it a smart choice for meal prep.
So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and embrace the warmth and flavor of this family-friendly chili. It’s sure to become a staple in your home, bringing smiles around the dinner table and creating lasting memories with each spoonful!
