Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili Recipe (Guide)

Let’s be honest-there’s something truly magical about chili. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, makes your kitchen smell irresistible, and has that unbeatable combination of hearty, spicy, and comforting flavors. Now, if you’ve ever dreamed of letting your chili simmer slowly while you go about your day, then the Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili Recipe is your ultimate ticket.

This recipe isn’t just convenient-it’s a flavor powerhouse. Using Campbell’s classic tomato-based ingredients ensures that your chili has a rich, well-rounded base without spending hours measuring out spices or worrying about balancing flavors. And the slow cooker? Oh, it’s a game-changer. By the time dinner rolls around, every ingredient has had the chance to mingle and develop that deep, soulful taste that only slow-cooked dishes can achieve.

Think of this as more than just a recipe-it’s a culinary experience that’s comforting, customizable, and surprisingly easy. Whether it’s a chilly winter night, a weekend gathering, or a casual weeknight dinner, this chili will have everyone asking for seconds.

Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili Recipe

This recipe is a perfect balance between convenience and culinary satisfaction. Campbell’s signature flavors provide the foundation, while your slow cooker works its magic, blending everything into a hearty, flavorful chili that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping for the week.

The beauty here is that it’s forgiving. You don’t need to be a professional chef, and the slow cooker does most of the heavy lifting. You can literally toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and let the kitchen aroma do the talking.

Ingredient List

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this cozy chili to life:

• Campbell’s Tomato Soup – 1 can (10.75 oz)
• Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)
• Ground Beef or Turkey – 1 pound, browned
• Kidney Beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• Black Beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• Onion – 1 medium, chopped
• Bell Pepper – 1, chopped (choose red or green for color and flavor)
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Chili Powder – 2 tablespoons
• Cumin – 1 teaspoon
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Salt and Pepper – to taste
• Optional Toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, sliced jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips

This combination ensures a chili that’s rich, hearty, and bursting with layers of flavor.

Instruction Guide

Let’s break this down step by step so it’s impossible to mess up:

1. Prep Your Ingredients

   • Chop the onion and bell pepper.
   • Mince the garlic.
   • Drain and rinse the beans.

2. Brown The Meat

   • In a skillet, cook your ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned.
   • Drain any excess fat to keep the chili from being too greasy.

3. Combine Ingredients In The Slow Cooker

   • Add the browned meat, beans, onions, bell pepper, and garlic.
   • Pour in Campbell’s tomato soup and cream of mushroom soup.
   • Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Cook Low And Slow

   • Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
   • Give it a stir halfway through if you remember, but it’s mostly hands-off.

5. Serve And Enjoy

   • Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings.
   • Pair with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Ingredient Swaps

Don’t like a particular ingredient? No problem. This recipe is super flexible:

• Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.
• Beans: Use pinto, cannellini, or chickpeas instead of kidney or black beans.
• Soup Base: Try cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom for a different twist.
• Vegetables: Add corn, zucchini, or even diced carrots for extra nutrition and color.
• Spices: Adjust the chili powder or add cayenne pepper if you like it hotter.

Helpful Tips

To make your slow cooker chili extra impressive, consider these tips:

• Brown the Meat: This adds flavor and a better texture. Skipping this step can result in a softer, less rich chili.
• Layer the Flavors: Don’t dump everything in at once-browning onions, garlic, and meat first builds depth.
• Don’t Overload the Slow Cooker: Ingredients should sit comfortably, so they cook evenly.
• Check Liquid Levels: If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water; if too thin, remove the lid near the end to let it reduce.
• Taste and Adjust: Chili powder and salt can always be added gradually-slow cooking mellows flavors.

Customization Ideas

Make this chili truly yours with these creative options:

• Tex-Mex Style: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika and top with avocado slices and fresh cilantro.
• Cheesy Chili: Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack right before serving.
• Chunky Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or corn for extra texture.
• Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to taste.
• Slow Cooker Chili Mac: Mix in cooked pasta near the end for a hearty one-pot meal.

The possibilities are almost endless-you can reinvent this classic recipe week after week.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili Recipe?

You will need Campbell’s condensed tomato soup, ground beef or turkey, kidney beans, onion, bell peppers, chili powder, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Optional ingredients include diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and shredded cheese for serving.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili?

The recipe typically requires 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat in a slow cooker. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to blend and the meat to become tender.

Can I Make Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Slow cooker chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further.

Is It Possible To Make This Recipe Vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the ground meat with extra beans, lentils, or meat alternatives like textured vegetable protein or plant-based crumbles. The soup and spices still provide a rich, savory flavor.

Can I Freeze Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili?

Yes, chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Do I Need To Brown The Meat Before Adding It To The Slow Cooker?

Browning the meat is recommended because it enhances flavor and texture, but it is optional. Cooking it directly in the slow cooker will still result in a safe and tasty chili.

Can I Adjust The Spiciness Of Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili?

Yes, you can increase or decrease chili powder, add cayenne pepper for more heat, or include mild chili varieties for less heat. Fresh jalapeños or hot sauce can also be adjusted to taste.

What Side Dishes Go Well With Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili?

Popular options include cornbread, tortilla chips, rice, baked potatoes, or a simple green salad. Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions complement the chili well.

Can I Use Different Types Of Beans In This Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute or combine beans such as black beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans. Just ensure the beans are pre-cooked or canned before adding them to the slow cooker to achieve the proper texture.

How Do I Store Leftovers Of Campbell’s Slow Cooker Chili?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.