Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

Featured in: Slow Cooker

This slow cooker chili combines ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and a chili seasoning blend for a rich, comforting dish. Minimal prep is needed—brown the meat, add ingredients to the cooker, and let it simmer for hours to meld flavors.

Optional toppings like shredded cheese or jalapeños enhance the layered taste. Suitable for busy evenings, this gluten- and dairy-free chili offers a satisfying, hearty meal that’s both easy and flavorful.

Updated on Sat, 22 Nov 2025 10:57:00 GMT
A steaming bowl of The Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump, ready for your favorite toppings. Save It
A steaming bowl of The Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump, ready for your favorite toppings. | sunnyspoonful.com

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

This is my go-to chili when I want something comforting but without a long ingredient list or prep time.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef (or turkey): 1 lb (450 g)
  • Kidney beans: 2 cans (15 oz / 425 g each), drained and rinsed
  • Diced tomatoes with juices: 1 can (28 oz / 800 g)
  • 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.
This hearty slow cooker chili dump, featuring ground beef, looks incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Save It
This hearty slow cooker chili dump, featuring ground beef, looks incredibly flavorful and satisfying. | sunnyspoonful.com

This recipe always brings my family around the table for sharing stories and laughter.

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 no 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.

Imagine the rich aromas coming from this easy 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump—perfect for a cozy evening. Save It
Imagine the rich aromas coming from this easy 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Dump—perfect for a cozy evening. | sunnyspoonful.com

This slow cooker chili is an effortless, delicious meal perfect for any occasion.

Recipe FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and yields a leaner chili while maintaining rich flavor.

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

Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours to develop deep, balanced flavors.

Are there vegetarian options for this chili?

Yes, replace ground meat with plant-based alternatives or add an extra can of beans for protein.

What toppings pair well with this chili?

Try shredded cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, or diced onions for added texture and taste.

Is the chili suitable for gluten-free diets?

The base ingredients are gluten-free, but verify the chili seasoning mix to avoid potential gluten sources.

Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

A hearty chili made with four simple pantry staples, ideal for easy slow cooker meals and cozy nights.

Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
360 mins
Total Duration
365 mins
Authored by Lana Bright

Recipe Type Slow Cooker

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Style American

Recipe Yield 4 Serving Size

Diet Preferences Dairy-Free, Free From Gluten

What You'll Need

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

Directions

Step 01

Brown ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles; drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 02

Transfer to slow cooker: Place the cooked ground beef into the slow cooker.

Step 03

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

Step 04

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

Step 05

Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Tools You'll Need

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

Allergy Information

Review each ingredient to identify potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Check chili seasoning mix for potential gluten, soy, or milk derivatives.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

This nutritional data is for reference only and isn't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Caloric Value: 350
  • Fats: 11 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 32 grams
  • Proteins: 28 grams