If you’re searching for a bold, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, this Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with three kinds of rich, savory meats and bursting with layers of smoky, spicy flavor, this no-bean chili is pure indulgence. Slow cooking allows all the spices and juicy meats to meld perfectly, creating a thick, satisfying dish that’s great for cozy weeknights or feeding a crowd. Once you try it, this recipe will become your go-to for effortless, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili Recipe lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each element plays a part in building the deep flavor, hearty texture, and vibrant color that makes this chili so irresistible.
- 1 lb ground beef: The classic chili base, providing rich flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 lb ground pork: Adds a slightly sweet and tender profile to balance the beef.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed: Brings a delightful spiced punch and fattiness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Offers sweetness and depth to the chili’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, savory backbone.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds juiciness and a fresh tomato bite.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the chili.
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce: Smooths out the texture and enriches the tomato base.
- 1 cup beef broth: Builds umami and prevents the chili from drying out during slow cooking.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The star seasoning that delivers robust chili spice.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness to flavor layers.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky depth that complements the meats.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives herbal brightness to the chili.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a little extra kick.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning meat): Helps develop rich browned flavor on the meat.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional): Provides fresh, herbal brightness when serving.
How to Make Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meats
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, ground pork, and Italian sausage, breaking them apart with a spoon. Browning the meats thoroughly, about 8-10 minutes, is essential to build a savory foundation full of flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the chili rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker
Once the meats are perfectly browned and drained, transfer them to your slow cooker. This set-it-and-forget-it step lets the magic happen over hours of gentle cooking while you relax or prep other parts of your meal.
Step 3: Add Veggies and Tomato Base
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic right on top of the meats in the slow cooker. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together gently, making sure those beautiful tomatoes and savory broth start mingling with the meat.
Step 4: Season It Up
This is where the Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili Recipe really shines. Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and the optional cayenne pepper. Stir again so every morsel of meat and tomato is kissed with warm, smoky spices.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This time allows the flavors to deepen beautifully and the chili to thicken naturally. If it’s too loose at the end, mash some of the tomatoes or meat against the side of the pot for extra thickness.
Step 6: Adjust and Garnish
Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch more salt or a dash of cayenne can brighten it up. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro to add that little burst of green freshness that contrasts with the hearty meatiness.
How to Serve Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skip the garnishes—they bring extra layers of flavor and texture! Some shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or finely chopped onions offer creaminess and crunch. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of herbal brightness to balance the richness and heat.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement without overpowering. Think crusty bread to soak up every drop, fluffy cornbread for a touch of sweetness, or a crisp green salad to lighten the meal. Tortilla chips are always a fun and crunchy accompaniment, perfect for scooping.
Creative Ways to Present
Take this chili beyond the bowl by spooning it over baked potatoes for a filling twist or layering it in a hearty chili mac. For parties, serve it in small cups with mini fixings to create a chili bar where everyone can customize their bowls. Even stuffed peppers filled with chili and topped with melted cheese turn heads and delight taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your chili, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It keeps well for 3 to 4 days and the flavors often deepen overnight, making the leftovers tastier on day two or three.
Freezing
This Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some headspace. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep or busy days when you crave a comforting, homemade meal in minutes.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight if possible. Warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, just cover and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the meat.
FAQs
Can I make this chili without the Italian sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can replace the Italian sausage with more ground beef or pork. The sausage adds a nice spice and fat content, but the chili will still be delicious without it.
Is it okay to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork?
While ground turkey or chicken can be used, this recipe really shines with the fattier and more flavorful beef, pork, and Italian sausage blend. Using leaner meats will result in a less rich chili but still tasty if that’s your preference.
How spicy is this chili, and can I adjust it?
This chili has a moderate heat level thanks to the chili powder and optional cayenne. You can easily adjust the spice by reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper or adding more for an extra kick. It’s very flexible to your taste.
Can I add beans to this chili?
This particular recipe is designed as a no-bean chili to focus on the pure meatiness. However, if beans are your thing, feel free to stir in cooked beans near the end of cooking to keep their texture intact.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker? Can I make this on the stovetop?
You can definitely make this chili on the stove. After browning the meat and combining ingredients in a large pot, let it simmer gently on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until thick and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili Recipe is a celebration of rich flavors, comforting textures, and effortless cooking. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy night in, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your hunger and please your taste buds. Give it a try and discover your new favorite way to enjoy chili!
Print
Hearty Slow Cooker All Meat Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and flavorful slow cooker all meat chili, packed with ground beef, pork, and Italian sausage, simmered with tomatoes and a blend of chili spices. This hearty no-bean chili is perfect for a comforting meal, cooked low and slow to develop deep, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomatoes & Liquids
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Additional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning meat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Brown the meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, ground pork, and Italian sausage. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the chili lean.
- Transfer meat to slow cooker: Move the browned meat mixture from the skillet into the slow cooker to begin the slow cooking process.
- Add vegetables and tomatoes: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker along with the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Season the chili: Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir again to ensure the spices are fully incorporated for a balanced flavor.
- Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook the chili on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken properly.
- Adjust seasoning and thickness: Once cooking is complete, taste the chili and adjust salt or spices as needed. For a thicker chili, use a spoon to gently mash some of the tomatoes or meat against the side of the slow cooker.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top if desired and serve the chili hot. It pairs well with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped onions for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier chili, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños during cooking.
- To reduce sodium, use low-sodium beef broth and adjust salt to taste.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- This chili thickens nicely overnight and can be reheated the next day, making it great for meal prep.
- Optional toppings like avocado slices or tortilla chips add extra texture and flavor.
