Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

Featured in: Warm Cookies & Cakes

This slow cooker chili blends ground meat, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning for a rich, comforting dish. Brown meat first to enhance flavor, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook low and slow for a tender, well-developed taste. Customize with favorite toppings like cheese or jalapeños to elevate each serving.

Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 15:33:00 GMT
Steaming bowl of The Secret 4-Ingredient Chili, ready with optional toppings like sour cream! Save to Pinterest
Steaming bowl of The Secret 4-Ingredient Chili, ready with optional toppings like sour cream! | flourhollow.com

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

I first made this chili on a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how flavorful it turned out with minimal effort.

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.
Delicious, homemade The Secret 4-Ingredient Chili simmering gently in a slow cooker, perfect for a cold evening. Save to Pinterest
Delicious, homemade The Secret 4-Ingredient Chili simmering gently in a slow cooker, perfect for a cold evening. | flourhollow.com

This chili has become a family favorite perfect for busy nights and cozy gatherings alike.

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

Nutritional Information

Calories 350 Total Fat 11 g Carbohydrates 32 g Protein 28 g per serving

Get ready for a flavorful, hearty experience: a photo showing The Secret 4-Ingredient Chili ready to enjoy. Save to Pinterest
Get ready for a flavorful, hearty experience: a photo showing The Secret 4-Ingredient Chili ready to enjoy. | flourhollow.com

This chili is simple yet hearty and perfect for any occasion.

Secret 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili

Hearty slow cooker chili made with four pantry essentials, perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

Prep Duration
5 mins
Cook Duration
360 mins
Overall Time
365 mins
Created by Megan Turner


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Serves 4 Servings Count

Dietary Details No Dairy, Free of Gluten

Ingredient List

Proteins

01 1 lb ground beef

Beans

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

Vegetables

01 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

Seasonings

01 1 packet (1.25 oz) chili seasoning mix

Steps

Step 01

Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it into crumbles; drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 02

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

Step 03

Add remaining ingredients: Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes with juices, and chili seasoning mix to the slow cooker; stir 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 and adjust seasoning if desired; serve hot with preferred toppings.

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Info

Review every ingredient to spot potential allergens. Always confirm with your healthcare provider if unsure.
  • Check chili seasoning packet for possible gluten, soy, or milk derivatives; verify all labels if allergies or intolerances exist.

Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)

Nutrition details are for reference and can't substitute for professional advice.
  • Caloric Value: 350
  • Fat content: 11 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Protein Amount: 28 g