Easy Slow Cooker Keto Chili
Alright, let’s talk chili. Not just any chili, but the kind that whispers sweet nothings to your slow cooker while you pretend to be productive elsewhere. This Easy Slow Cooker Keto Chili is basically a warm hug in a bowl, but, like, a hug from your slightly chaotic aunt who always brings the best snacks. It’s rich, it’s hearty, and it’s surprisingly low-carb, meaning you can have a second bowl (or third, no judgment here) without feeling like you need to roll yourself to bed. You should try this because, frankly, who has the energy for complicated meals on a Tuesday? Or any day, really.
The last time I made this, my husband, bless his heart, decided to “help.” Which, in his language, means sampling every ingredient as I was putting it into the slow cooker. First, it was a rogue kidney bean. Then a pinch of chili powder (“just checking the spice level, honey!”). By the time I got to the ground beef, half of it had mysteriously vanished. I swear, sometimes I think I’m running a small, very hungry taste-testing facility instead of a kitchen. The kids, meanwhile, were convinced the slow cooker was a magic potion cauldron and started adding their own “secret ingredients” (read: Legos and a small, sticky toy car). I caught them just in time. The chili still turned out amazing, despite the culinary chaos and the fact I had to subtract 1/4 lb of beef from the final yield.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Keto Chili
- It’s a “set it and forget it” situation: Which is perfect because “forgetting it” is basically my life motto these days. Less active cooking, more active scrolling.
- Your kitchen will smell amazing: So amazing, in fact, that your neighbors might just show up with empty bowls. Don’t worry, you can pretend you’re out of town.
- It’s secretly healthy-ish: “Keto” sounds fancy, but really, it just means you can eat a lot of it and feel good about your life choices. Mostly.
- It’s practically a one-pot meal: Unless you’re me, and somehow manage to dirty every single utensil and cutting board in a five-foot radius.
- Leftovers are a religion: And this chili converts everyone. Trust me, it tastes even better the next day after all those flavors have had a sleepover.
Time-Saving Hacks
- Pre-chopped veggies are your best friend. Yes, they cost a little more. No, I don’t care about the extra 50 cents when it saves me 15 minutes of therapy-inducing chopping.
- Browning the meat in the slow cooker insert (if it’s stovetop safe) means one less pan to wash. Or, if you’re really committed to fewer dishes, just dump it all in raw and cross your fingers. (Disclaimer: I do not officially endorse this, but I’ve been there.)
- Use a slow cooker liner. Seriously. The future is now, and it involves not scrubbing burnt-on chili from the bottom of a ceramic pot.
Serving Ideas
You know, sometimes you just need to keep things simple. And by simple, I mean don’t fuss too much. This chili is a star all on its own, but a little pizzazz never hurt anyone. Or maybe it did. Who’s counting? Serve it with wine if the kids drove you nuts, or a sparkling water if you’re pretending to be fancy.
What to Serve It With
- Cheese, glorious cheese: A generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack is non-negotiable.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: For that tangy, cooling contrast. A dollop, not a dainty little spoon.
- Avocado slices: Because everything is better with avocado, and it adds healthy fats (which we totally need after all that chili).
- A side salad: If you’re feeling particularly virtuous. Or just want to balance out the lack of actual vegetables in the chili.
- Low-carb cornbread (if you’re feeling ambitious): For dipping and generally being extra.
- Pickled jalapeños: For a kick that says, “I’m still awake and my taste buds are thriving.”
Tips & Mistakes
Always brown your ground beef first. Don’t skip this. Trust me, grey, boiled meat is a sad sight and even sadder taste. If your chili is too watery, just take off the lid for the last hour of cooking to let some moisture evaporate. If it’s too thick, add a little beef broth. And if you forget an ingredient? Just shrug and call it “minimalist chili.” No one needs to know.
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Storage Tips
Store it in the fridge… if there’s any left. Cold midnight leftovers? Sometimes better than fresh.
Variations and Substitutions
Swap whatever you want—sugar ↔ honey, soy sauce ↔ tamari, or skip steps and call it “deconstructed.” It still counts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Easy Slow Cooker Keto Chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb ground beef Can substitute with turkey or chicken for lighter option.
- 1 large onion, chopped Yellow onion works well for flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For extra flavor, use roasted garlic.
- 2 cans diced tomatoes With jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- 1.5 cups bell peppers, diced Green or red; choose your favorite.
- 2 tbsp chili powder Adjust based on spice preference.
- 1 tbsp ground cumin Adds an earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp salt To enhance overall taste.
- 0.5 tsp black pepper Freshly ground preferred.
- 1 cup beef broth For richer flavor.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart until fully cooked.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is tender.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a slow cooker. Stir in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 4 hours or until flavors meld together.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or jalapeños if desired.
Notes
Featured Comments
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