Slow Cooker Turkey and Black Bean Chili
Searching for a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for meal prepping? This Slow Cooker Turkey and Black Bean Chili is a fantastic freezer friendly dinner recipe that practically cooks itself. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how wonderfully it tastes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Turkey: You can easily swap this for ground chicken or lean ground beef.
- Black Beans: Kidney beans or pinto beans work well if you don’t have black beans.
- Diced Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes are a good alternative for a smoother chili.
- Chili Powder: Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Onion & Bell Pepper: Essential for flavor, but feel free to add other veggies like corn or zucchini.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced avocado
- Tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 4-8 hours
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high, 6-8 hours on low
- Servings: 6-8
- Tools Needed: Large skillet, 6-quart slow cooker
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Turkey and Sauté Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked turkey and vegetables to your slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, rinsed and drained black beans, rinsed and drained kidney beans, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together gently.
3. Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. Season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
4. Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld. You’ll know it’s ready when the chili is thick and fragrant.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, give the chili a final stir. Ladle into bowls and add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or avocado. This is one of the easiest freezer friendly dinner recipes you’ll make!
Variation Ideas
- Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the other spices.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in a cup of frozen corn or diced zucchini during the last hour of cooking.
- Spicier Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño in step 1.
- Sweeter Touch: A tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Storage Instructions
Allow the chili to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For a great freezer friendly dinner recipe, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this chili on the stovetop?
Yes, after step 3, bring the mixture to a simmer in a large pot, then reduce heat and cook, covered, for at least 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check your ingredient labels to be sure.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Corn, zucchini, or carrots would be great additions. Add them in step 2.
How do I make this chili milder?
Simply omit the cayenne pepper. You can also reduce the amount of chili powder slightly.
What are some good side dishes for this chili?
Serve your chili with cornbread, crackers, or a simple green salad.
Can I use dry beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook them separately before adding them to the slow cooker in step 2.
