It was one of those afternoons where I wasn’t quite sure what dinner would look like. The kind where you glance at the clock and realize the day slipped away faster than you expected. I pulled out the slow cooker, thinking, “Why not chili?” The kitchen soon filled with that familiar, hearty scent—the mingling of spices, tender beef, and sweet notes from the BBQ sauce. Somewhere between stirring and tidying up, I caught myself sneaking a spoonful, despite knowing it wasn’t quite ready. That little moment made the wait feel all the more worth it.
There’s a certain magic in slow cooker meals that you can’t rush. Kraft Slow Cooker Chili is no exception. It’s not just about throwing ingredients in a pot; it’s about the anticipation of that first warm bite after a day’s hustle. The layers of flavor, the gentle heat from the chili seasoning, and the satisfying texture of beans all come together in a way that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Hands-off cooking means you can focus on other things while dinner simmers to perfection.
- The blend of Kraft Original BBQ Sauce and chili seasoning brings a smoky, slightly sweet depth that’s not overpowering.
- It’s hearty without being complicated — and that’s kind of the point.
- Feeds a crowd or provides plenty of leftovers for busy days ahead.
If you’re feeling a bit wary about slow cooker recipes, this one is straightforward and forgiving. It’s easy to adjust seasoning after cooking if you like it spicier or milder, which I usually do depending on my mood. Plus, the beans add a nice texture that keeps every spoonful interesting.
Kraft Slow Cooker Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili made easy with Kraft ingredients and slow cooker convenience. Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 ounces) Kraft Original BBQ Sauce
1 packet (1.25 ounces) Kraft Chili Seasoning Mix
1 cup water
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 4-5 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.
Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, Kraft Original BBQ Sauce, Kraft Chili Seasoning Mix, and water to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
After cooking, stir the chili well and taste. Adjust seasoning if desired.
Serve hot with your favorite chili toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Kitchen Notes:
Using your slow cooker means you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a sturdy pot and some patience. When serving, I like to add shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess. Green onions also make a fresh, crunchy contrast. If you want to switch it up, try swapping kidney beans with black beans or adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick. I haven’t tested all possible variations, but a handful of corn kernels stirred in near the end might add a nice sweetness.
FAQ:
Can I prepare this chili ahead of time? Absolutely. It tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld.
Is it freezer-friendly? Yes, this chili freezes well for up to three months. Just thaw overnight before reheating.
What sides go well? Cornbread, simple green salads, or even tortilla chips complement the chili nicely.
Next time the evening feels like it needs a little warmth and comfort, give this Kraft Slow Cooker Chili a try. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down and savor every bite.