Slow Cooker Turkey Chili with Beans
Hearty, wholesome, and packed with bold flavor this Slow Cooker Turkey Chili with Beans is the perfect set-it-and-forget-it comfort meal! Lean ground turkey, tender beans, and a rich, spiced tomato base come together in the slow cooker for a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey (lean, 93/7 preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 (15 oz) cans beans (kidney, black, or pinto – or a mix), drained and rinsed
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Optional Garnishes
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced avocado
- Tortilla chips or cornbread
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Turkey and Veggies : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned (about 5–6 minutes). Stir in onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker : Transfer turkey mixture to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beans, tomato paste, and broth. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Slow Cook : On Low: 6–8 hours,On High: 3–4 hours,Stir occasionally if possible. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.
- Step 4: Taste u0026 Adjust : Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings—add more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.