Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
Slow cooker turkey chili is a healthy and simple dish you can prepare easily. Start by sautéing chopped onion in olive oil, then cook ground turkey until nearly done. Transfer it to the slow cooker and add bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, and spices. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. You’ll find more helpful tips and variations to explore.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
Why will you love this Slow Cooker Turkey Chili? It’s a simple and hearty meal that fits perfectly into a busy schedule. The slow cooker does most of the work, letting you enjoy time with family or friends.
You’ll appreciate how the flavors develop over hours, resulting in a rich, comforting dish.
Key benefits include:
– Healthy ingredients like lean turkey and beans.
– Versatile options for toppings and spices.
– Easy preparation with minimal cleanup.
– Great for leftovers, often tasting even better the next day.
This chili is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Recipe
Slow Cooker Turkey Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This chili isn’t only delicious but also simple to prepare, allowing you to enjoy the day while the slow cooker works its magic.
The combination of ground turkey, beans, and a variety of vegetables creates a nutritious meal that’s packed with protein and fiber. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility; you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Feel free to add extra veggies or switch up the type of beans used. With the slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you can sit back and relax while your chili develops rich flavors over hours of cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground turkey (80% lean)
- 1-2 bell peppers, chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or red wine)
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (to taste)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Heat a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and chopped onion, sautéing until the onion is softened, about 3-5 minutes.
Then, add the ground turkey, breaking it into pieces, and cook until it’s almost done, around 5-10 minutes. Transfer the turkey mixture to the slow cooker.
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In the slow cooker, add the chopped bell peppers, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, drained beans, vinegar, hot sauce, chili powder, cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Mix all the ingredients well to combine.
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Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on HIGH for 4 hours or LOW for 8 hours. Stir occasionally if possible, to guarantee even cooking and flavor distribution.
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Once cooked, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Turkey Chili!
Extra Tips
Browning the turkey and caramelizing the onions before adding them to the slow cooker enhances the overall flavor of the chili, so don’t skip this step!
If you find the chili too spicy, a small amount of sugar can help balance the heat. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different beans or vegetables based on your preferences, and remember that leftovers often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
After preparing your Slow Cooker Turkey Chili, it’s important to reflect on the experience and the dish itself.
Consider how the flavors melded during the slow cooking process. You might find that the chili tastes even better the next day.
Keep in mind these storage tips: refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze for 3-4 months.
When reheating, add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Finally, don’t hesitate to customize your chili with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Enjoy your creation and share it with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
You can use frozen ground turkey. Just remember to thaw it first. It’ll guarantee even cooking and better flavor. You wouldn’t want to miss out on that delicious taste, would you?
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
To make your chili spicier, you can add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce. Experiment with different spices, and taste as you go to achieve the heat level you prefer. Enjoy the kick!
What Toppings Pair Well With Turkey Chili?
You can enhance your chili with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro. Avocado slices and crushed tortilla chips add creaminess and crunch, elevating the overall flavor and texture.
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes, you can definitely use a different type of meat! Ground chicken, beef, or even pork will work well. Just remember to adjust cooking times and seasonings to suit your chosen meat’s flavor profile.
How Do I Reheat Leftover Chili?
To reheat leftover chili, you can microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally, or heat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it gets too thick. Enjoy!