Chili Mccormick Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)
Let’s face it: there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a hearty chili simmering slowly all day. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings, weekend gatherings, or just when you want something deeply satisfying with minimal effort. And when you throw a slow cooker into the mix, it’s a game-changer. You get all the rich, layered flavors of a long-cooked chili without standing over a hot stove, stirring and babysitting your pot.
Enter the Chili McCormick Slow Cooker Recipe-a recipe that promises bold flavors, tender ingredients, and a perfect balance of spices. Think of it as your culinary BFF: it’s easy, forgiving, and customizable. Whether you’re a slow-cooker novice or a chili connoisseur, this recipe will become a go-to favorite. I’m going to take you step by step, share helpful swaps, and give you customization ideas so your chili can be exactly the way you like it. Let’s dive in.
Chili Mccormick Slow Cooker Recipe

This isn’t just any chili. This is the kind that makes your kitchen smell irresistible, draws everyone to the table, and keeps people asking for seconds. It’s packed with savory meat, wholesome beans, fresh vegetables, and that signature McCormick spice mix that adds depth and a hint of smokiness. And the beauty of a slow cooker? Everything melds together so well that the flavors become almost magical.
Ingredient List
Here’s everything you’ll need for the classic Chili McCormick Slow Cooker experience:
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Protein
- 1.5 pounds ground beef, turkey, or chicken (or a plant-based alternative)
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Beans
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
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Vegetables
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (optional, for heat)
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Liquids & Tomatoes
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
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Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon McCormick Chili Seasoning Mix
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional Garnishes
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
Instruction Guide
Here’s a detailed, foolproof step-by-step guide to creating chili perfection:
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Prep The Ingredients
- Dice your onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños. Mince the garlic. Rinse and drain the beans.
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Brown The Meat (Optional But Recommended)
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook your ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat. This step builds flavor but can be skipped if you prefer a simpler method.
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Layer In The Slow Cooker
- Add the browned meat to the slow cooker.
- Layer in your beans, diced vegetables, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth.
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Add The Spices
- Sprinkle in chili powder, McCormick Chili Seasoning Mix, paprika, cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
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Cook Low And Slow
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavor.
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Taste And Adjust
- About 30 minutes before serving, taste your chili and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
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Serve And Garnish
- Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, green onions, or cilantro. Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.
Ingredient Swaps
Flexibility is one of the joys of chili:
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Protein Alternatives
- Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or plant-based ’beef’ crumbles
- Lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian version
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Beans
- Pinto beans, garbanzo beans, or even a mix of all three
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Vegetables
- Carrots, zucchini, or corn can add sweetness and texture
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Tomatoes & Broth
- Fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor
- Low-sodium broth to control salt content
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Spices
- Swap McCormick chili mix with homemade chili powder blend
- Add a dash of cinnamon or cocoa powder for depth and richness
Helpful Tips
- Don’t skip browning your meat: It adds caramelized flavor that elevates the chili.
- Layer strategically: Put heartier ingredients like beans and meat on the bottom; delicate vegetables on top.
- Avoid overcooking beans: If using canned beans, add them later in the cooking process for a firmer texture.
- Thicken naturally: Remove the lid in the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce excess liquid.
- Spice control: Start with smaller amounts of cayenne or jalapeños-you can always add more at the end.
Customization Ideas
Here’s where your chili can truly become your own:
- Spicy Lovers: Add chipotle peppers in adobo or extra cayenne.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in cream cheese at the end for creamy chili.
- Hearty Mix: Add cooked quinoa, barley, or sweet potatoes to make it extra filling.
- Smoky BBQ Twist: Stir in barbecue sauce or smoked paprika for a southern BBQ vibe.
- Tex-Mex Flair: Add corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, or even crushed tortilla chips on top.
FAQs
What Is The McCormick Slow Cooker Chili Recipe?
The McCormick slow cooker chili recipe is a hearty dish made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and McCormick Chili Seasoning Mix, all cooked together in a slow cooker for several hours to develop deep, savory flavors.
What Ingredients Are Needed For McCormick Slow Cooker Chili?
The typical ingredients include ground beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chopped onion, and a packet of McCormick Chili Seasoning Mix. Some variations may also include bell peppers, garlic, or black beans.
How Long Does It Take To Cook McCormick Chili In A Slow Cooker?
Cooking times vary depending on the setting. On the low setting, the chili usually takes 6 to 8 hours. On the high setting, it can be ready in 3 to 4 hours.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Or Chicken Instead Of Beef In This Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. The McCormick Chili Seasoning Mix works well with different proteins, though the texture and flavor may be slightly lighter than with beef.
Do I Need To Brown The Meat Before Adding It To The Slow Cooker?
Yes, it is recommended to brown the ground meat in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This helps render fat, enhances flavor, and improves the texture of the chili.
Can I Make McCormick Chili Vegetarian In The Slow Cooker?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add extra beans or vegetables such as zucchini, corn, or mushrooms. The McCormick Chili Seasoning Mix still provides robust flavor without the meat.
Is It Necessary To Drain The Beans Before Adding Them?
Most recipes recommend draining and rinsing canned beans to reduce excess sodium and prevent the chili from becoming too watery. However, some prefer adding the liquid for a saucier consistency.
How Can I Make The Chili Spicier?
To increase heat, you can add fresh chili peppers, cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a spicier variety of McCormick Chili Mix, such as the Hot version.
What Toppings Go Well With McCormick Slow Cooker Chili?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, diced avocado, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Cornbread or tortilla chips also pair well with chili.
Can I Freeze Leftovers Of McCormick Chili?
Yes, the chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
