1. Start
  2. Dishes
  3. Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

Featured in: One-Pot Comfort Dishes

This slow cooker chili features just four main ingredients: ground meat, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and a chili seasoning mix. The ground meat is browned on the stovetop before being combined with the other elements in the slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld over several hours. This method creates a rich, hearty dish that's both comforting and effortless to prepare. Customizable with optional toppings and adaptable for vegetarian preferences, it suits gluten-free and dairy-free diets while providing a balanced protein and fiber-packed meal.

Save Tell Friends Forward Get Hardcopy Skip to Recipe
Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:49:00 GMT
Steaming bowl of The Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump, a flavorful and simple family meal. Save
Steaming bowl of The Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump, a flavorful and simple family meal. | sizzlebloom.com

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

This chili recipe has quickly become a family favorite for its simplicity and delicious flavor.

Ingredients

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

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.
A close-up view of the rich, red The Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump, ready to be served. Save
A close-up view of the rich, red The Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump, ready to be served. | sizzlebloom.com

My family loves gathering around the table enjoying this chili, making every meal feel special.

Notes

Spice level depends on the seasoning mix—add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat if desired.

Required Tools

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

Allergen Information

Contains none of the major allergens in base recipe but check chili seasoning packet for possible gluten, soy, or milk derivatives. Always check labels if you have allergies or intolerances.

Thick, slow-cooked The Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump with hearty beans and beef, perfect for topping. Save
Thick, slow-cooked The Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump with hearty beans and beef, perfect for topping. | sizzlebloom.com

This easy slow cooker chili is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Common Questions

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and offers a leaner alternative while maintaining hearty texture.

→ How long should the chili cook in the slow cooker?

Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours to ensure flavors blend thoroughly.

→ Are there suggested toppings to enhance flavor?

Popular options include shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, and diced onions.

→ Is the chili suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, but verify the chili seasoning mix ingredients to ensure no gluten is present.

→ Can I make a vegetarian version?

Absolutely. Substitute plant-based ground meat or increase beans for added protein.

Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

Hearty slow cooker chili with four simple pantry ingredients, perfect for busy evenings and cozy meals.

Setup Duration
5 min
Heat Duration
360 min
Complete Duration
365 min
Created by Emily Dawson

Classification One-Pot Comfort Dishes

Skill Level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition Labels No Dairy, No Gluten

Components

Proteins

01 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey

Beans

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

Vegetables

01 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices

Seasonings

01 1 packet (1.25 ounces) chili seasoning mix

Method Steps

Phase 01

Brown the meat: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Phase 02

Transfer to slow cooker: Move the browned meat into the slow cooker.

Phase 03

Combine ingredients: Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juices, and chili seasoning mix to the slow cooker. Stir thoroughly to combine.

Phase 04

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

Phase 05

Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the chili, adjust seasoning if desired, and serve hot with preferred toppings.

Kitchen Tools

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

Dietary Alerts

Always review ingredients individually for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance when uncertain.
  • Check chili seasoning packet for possible gluten, soy, or milk derivatives.

Dietary Information (per portion)

Values shown are estimates and shouldn't replace professional medical consultation.
  • Energy Value: 350
  • Fats: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Proteins: 28 g