Go Back
A pot of simmering crockpot chili, rich and smoky.

The Ultimate "Oomph" Crockpot Chili

This hearty crockpot chili is packed with flavor, featuring a secret ingredient (coffee!) for an extra "oomph." It's perfect for a cozy meal and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans kidney beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1/4 cup chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (cold)
Optional Toppings
  • shredded cheddar cheese
  • sour cream
  • green onions
  • fresh cilantro
  • jalapeño slices
  • tortilla chips

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • spoon
  • slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
  • ladle
  • bowls

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, then drain excess grease.
  2. Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, beef broth, and coffee to the slow cooker.
  5. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to combine.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until flavors meld and chili is thick.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. For a thicker chili, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking on high.
  8. Ladle hot chili into bowls and serve with your favorite garnishes.

Notes

The coffee adds a depth of flavor that really makes this chili stand out. Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. This chili freezes well, making it great for meal prep!