20 Slow Cooker Chili Recipes for Game Day

Game day demands food that stays hot and tastes even better as the hours roll by. If you want to avoid standing over a stove while your team is playing, you need reliable slow cooker chili recipes. I have spent years perfecting these hands-off meals that keep guests full without keeping you stuck in the kitchen. These recipes work because they rely on long, low heat to develop deep, concentrated flavors that you just cannot get in twenty minutes on the stovetop.

1. Rich Dark Chocolate Chuck Roast Chili

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 8 hrs | Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Medium

Adding a touch of unsweetened cocoa powder creates a velvety finish that elevates the savoriness of the beef. It adds depth rather than sweetness, making this a sophisticated choice for any crowd.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs boneless chuck roast, cubed
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz fire roasted tomatoes
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 cup beef broth

How to Prepare:

• Combine all ingredients in your Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker and stir well to coat the beef.
• Cover and cook on low heat for 8 hours until the meat pulls apart easily with a fork.
• Shred the larger pieces of beef directly in the pot using two forks.
• Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference before serving.

Serve it with:

• Classic pairing: Serve with a side of warm sourdough bread to soak up the dark, rich sauce.

Nutrition (per serving): 320 kcal, 28g protein, 12g carbs, 18g fat

Pro Tip: Use a high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother, less acidic flavor profile.

2. Creamy Pasta Chili Pot

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 4 hrs | Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

This hybrid meal brings the comfort of mac and cheese to the boldness of a spicy chili. Adding the pasta near the end ensures it stays firm rather than mushy.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb ground beef, browned
• 1 can kidney beans, drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

How to Prepare:

• Brown the ground beef in a skillet, drain the fat, and transfer to your slow cooker.
• Add beans, tomatoes, broth, and spices, stirring to combine.
• Cook on high for 3 hours, then stir in the dry macaroni.
• Finish by cooking for an additional 45 minutes until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Top with pickled jalapeños for a vinegary brightness.

Nutrition (per serving): 380 kcal, 22g protein, 45g carbs, 12g fat

Good to Know: If the chili looks too thick when you add the pasta, splash in an extra half-cup of water.

3. Four-Bean Italian Sausage Chili

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 10 | Difficulty: Medium

Italian sausage adds a herbal, savory kick that traditional ground beef lacks. Using a mix of four different beans gives this dish a varied texture that keeps every bite interesting.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb mild Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 can black beans, rinsed
• 1 can pinto beans, rinsed
• 1 can kidney beans, rinsed
• 1 can cannellini beans, rinsed
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tbsp dried oregano

How to Prepare:

• Sear the sausage in a pan over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles.
• Transfer the meat to the slow cooker and add all the rinsed beans.
• Pour the marinara sauce and oregano over the mixture.
• Simmer on low for 6 hours to allow the sausage fat to infuse the beans.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with shaved parmesan cheese and crusty Italian bread.

Nutrition (per serving): 340 kcal, 20g protein, 38g carbs, 10g fat

Variation: Use hot Italian sausage if your group prefers a spicy kick on game day.

4. Pork Tenderloin and Hominy Chili

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 5 hrs | Total Time: 5 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Medium

Hominy adds a chewy, corn-like texture that pairs beautifully with the mild flavor of pork. This is a lighter alternative to beef-heavy recipes that feels hearty and satisfying.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 2 cans white hominy, drained
• 1 white onion, chopped
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

How to Prepare:

• Place the pork chunks, onions, and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Add the drained hominy, spices, and chicken stock over the meat.
• Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
• Cover and cook on high for 5 hours, ensuring the pork is cooked through and tender.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Top with fresh radish slices and a squeeze of lime juice.

Nutrition (per serving): 290 kcal, 26g protein, 22g carbs, 8g fat

Storage: This chili keeps well in the fridge for up to four days and often tastes better as leftovers.

5. Fire Roasted Green Chile Chicken Chili

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 4 hrs | Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

Using chicken breast keeps this dish lean and fast to cook. The smoky green chiles provide a mild heat that appeals to a wide variety of guests who might shy away from intense spice.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, boneless
• 2 cans diced fire-roasted green chiles
• 1 cup white beans, cooked
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp cumin
• 0.5 tsp salt

How to Prepare:

• Add the chicken breasts and all other ingredients into the slow cooker.
• Cover and cook on high for 4 hours until the chicken pulls apart easily.
• Shred the chicken using two forks while it is still in the pot.
• Stir to incorporate the juices and serve warm.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with warm flour tortillas on the side.

Nutrition (per serving): 250 kcal, 28g protein, 15g carbs, 5g fat

Make-Ahead: Assemble the raw ingredients in a freezer bag and thaw in the fridge before dumping into the slow cooker.

6. Lean Turkey Chili with Fire-Roasted Tomatoes

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

If you prefer a bean-free option, this turkey chili relies on fire-roasted tomatoes for an intense, smoky depth. It is a fantastic option for guests following specific dietary needs.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs ground turkey
• 2 cans fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup beef broth

How to Prepare:

• Sauté the ground turkey in a pan until lightly browned.
• Transfer the turkey to the slow cooker along with all remaining ingredients.
• Stir thoroughly to combine the flavors.
• Cook on low for 6 hours, stirring once halfway through if possible.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with avocado slices to provide a creamy contrast to the tomato base.

Nutrition (per serving): 280 kcal, 25g protein, 10g carbs, 12g fat

Substitution: Swap turkey for ground chicken if you want an even leaner result.

7. Southern Chili with Cornbread Crust

Prep Time: 25 mins | Cook Time: 7 hrs | Total Time: 7 hrs 25 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Hard

This is a complete meal in one pot. By pouring the cornbread batter directly over the chili during the final hour, you get a beautiful golden crust that seals in the moisture.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 2 cans pinto beans
• 2 cans tomato sauce
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 box cornbread mix + required egg and milk

How to Prepare:

• Brown the beef in a skillet and move to the slow cooker with beans, tomato sauce, and seasoning.
• Cook on low for 6 hours.
• Mix the cornbread batter according to the box instructions.
• Pour the batter over the top, cover, and cook on high for 45 to 60 minutes until the bread is firm and golden.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with a side of honey butter.

Nutrition (per serving): 420 kcal, 24g protein, 35g carbs, 18g fat

Warning: Avoid lifting the lid while the cornbread is cooking, as the trapped steam is necessary for it to rise.

8. Three-Bean Chickpea Chili

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 5 hrs | Total Time: 5 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Easy

Chickpeas add a firmer texture that separates this dish from standard bean chilis. It works well for a crowd that enjoys a bit of bite to their food.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 1 can chickpeas, drained
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 can pinto beans, drained
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin

How to Prepare:

• Add all beans and ingredients to the slow cooker.
• Stir until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
• Cook on low for 5 hours, allowing the chickpeas to soften slightly but keep their shape.
• Season with extra salt if needed before serving.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

Nutrition (per serving): 260 kcal, 12g protein, 48g carbs, 2g fat

Good to Know: If you prefer softer chickpeas, extend the cooking time by an additional hour.

9. Meaty Mushroom Umami Chili

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Medium

Mushrooms are the secret to a satisfying vegetarian chili. When cooked low and slow, they take on a meaty texture and deep, savory flavor that mimics beef perfectly.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 8 oz shiitake mushrooms, chopped
• 1 can black beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

How to Prepare:

• Sauté the mushrooms in a hot pan for 5 minutes to brown them before adding to the cooker.
• Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and mix well.
• Cook on low for 6 hours until the mushrooms are tender and flavorful.
• Check seasoning and add more soy sauce for a deeper umami punch if desired.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with a garnish of fresh green onions and chopped cilantro.

Nutrition (per serving): 210 kcal, 9g protein, 25g carbs, 4g fat

Pro Tip: Browning the mushrooms first is essential for removing excess water and intensifying the flavor.

10. Sweet Potato and Roasted Pepper Chili

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 7 hrs | Total Time: 7 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Easy

Sweet potatoes provide a natural sweetness that balances the heat of the peppers. This is a vibrant, plant-based dish that looks beautiful in a bowl.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and diced
• 1 can black beans
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder

How to Prepare:

• Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, ensuring the sweet potatoes are covered by liquid.
• Cook on low for 7 hours or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
• Stir gently to avoid breaking up the potato chunks too much.
• Adjust the salt levels before serving to bring out the sweetness of the potatoes.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Top with crushed tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.

Nutrition (per serving): 240 kcal, 6g protein, 52g carbs, 1g fat

Variation: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the spice mix for an even deeper flavor profile.

11. Double-Bean Corn and Jalapeño Chili

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

This dish captures the classic spicy-sweet combination. The frozen corn adds a nice pop of color and sweetness against the heat of the jalapeños.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 1 cup frozen corn
• 2 fresh jalapeños, minced
• 1 can kidney beans
• 1 can black beans
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder

How to Prepare:

• Mix all ingredients in the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 6 hours.
• Add more jalapeños if you prefer a higher heat level.
• Serve immediately once the flavors have melded.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with a side of jalapeño cornbread.

Nutrition (per serving): 270 kcal, 14g protein, 42g carbs, 3g fat

Pro Tip: Remove the seeds from the jalapeños if you want the flavor without the intense heat.

12. Classic Beef and Green Chile Chili

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Medium

Green chiles offer a bright, mild acidity that cuts through the richness of the ground beef. It is a regional favorite that never gets old.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 can diced green chiles
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 can pinto beans
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt

How to Prepare:

• Brown the beef in a pan, drain, and move to the slow cooker.
• Add all remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
• Cook on low for 6 hours.
• Serve in bowls with your favorite toppings.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Top with shredded sharp cheddar cheese.

Nutrition (per serving): 350 kcal, 26g protein, 20g carbs, 18g fat

Good to Know: The green chiles should be mild, but check the can label to ensure they aren’t labeled “hot” unless you want the extra kick.

13. Refried Bean Creamy Chili

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 5 hrs | Total Time: 5 hrs 10 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

The secret to this exceptionally thick chili is a can of refried beans. It acts as a natural thickener and gives the whole pot a creamy consistency that is perfect for dipping.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 1 can refried beans
• 1 lb ground beef, cooked
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder

How to Prepare:

• Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker.
• Stir until the refried beans are fully incorporated into the broth.
• Cook on low for 5 hours.
• Stir once more before serving to keep the consistency smooth.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with sturdy tortilla scoops.

Nutrition (per serving): 310 kcal, 24g protein, 28g carbs, 11g fat

Pro Tip: Use a whisk to ensure the refried beans don’t clump when you stir them in.

14. Spicy Hatch Green Chile Beef Chili

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Medium

This recipe is for those who love bold, regional flavors. Hatch chiles add a complex, smoky heat that makes this chili stand out at any party.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
• 2 cups roasted Hatch chiles, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin

How to Prepare:

• Sear the beef in a hot skillet for 5 minutes.
• Add the beef and all other ingredients into the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 6 hours until the beef is meltingly tender.
• Adjust seasoning and serve while hot.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with warm buttered dinner rolls.

Nutrition (per serving): 330 kcal, 28g protein, 10g carbs, 19g fat

Warning: Hatch chiles vary in heat, so taste a small piece of the chile before adding the whole amount.

15. Smoky Beanless Tailgate Chili

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 7 hrs | Total Time: 7 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Medium

A beanless chili is often the best choice for tailgating where guests prefer a pure meat-and-sauce experience. The combination of beef and pork creates a rich flavor base.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 onion, diced

How to Prepare:

• Brown both meats in a large skillet and transfer to the slow cooker.
• Add the tomatoes and all spices.
• Cook on low for 7 hours to let the smoky flavors develop.
• Drain any excess fat from the top before serving if needed.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with a side of coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.

Nutrition (per serving): 380 kcal, 26g protein, 8g carbs, 26g fat

Make-Ahead: This dish is even better if you make it the day before and reheat it on game day.

16. Craft Beer Braised Chili

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Medium

The maltiness of a dark craft beer adds a depth that water or stock simply cannot match. Choose a stout or porter for the best results.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 bottle (12 oz) stout or porter beer
• 1 can kidney beans
• 1 can tomato paste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp chili powder

How to Prepare:

• Brown the beef and move to the slow cooker.
• Add the beans, tomato paste, onion, and spices.
• Pour the beer over the mixture and stir well.
• Cook on low for 6 hours until the liquid has reduced and thickened.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with a side of sharp cheddar biscuits.

Nutrition (per serving): 360 kcal, 24g protein, 22g carbs, 16g fat

Substitution: If you prefer not to use alcohol, use a non-alcoholic malt beverage or beef broth with a teaspoon of molasses.

17. Shredded Beef Stew Meat Chili

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 8 hrs | Total Time: 8 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Hard

Stew meat is affordable and perfect for long cooking. When slow-cooked until it falls apart, it creates a texture that feels much more expensive than the original cut.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs beef stew meat
• 1 can kidney beans
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tbsp cumin
• 1 tbsp chili powder

How to Prepare:

• Place the beef chunks in the slow cooker.
• Add all other ingredients and stir to combine.
• Cook on low for 8 hours.
• Use two forks to shred the beef into smaller pieces once cooked.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with a dollop of sour cream.

Nutrition (per serving): 340 kcal, 30g protein, 15g carbs, 16g fat

Pro Tip: Ensure your stew meat is cut into uniform pieces so they cook evenly throughout the process.

18. Masa Harina Thickened Chuck Chili

Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 7 hrs | Total Time: 7 hrs 20 mins | Serves: 8 | Difficulty: Medium

Masa harina—used to make tortillas—is a brilliant way to thicken chili. It adds a subtle corn flavor that rounds out the spices beautifully.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 lbs chuck roast, cubed
• 3 tbsp masa harina
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 cans diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tbsp chili powder

How to Prepare:

• Combine the beef, tomatoes, onion, and spices in the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 7 hours.
• Whisk the masa harina into the beef broth separately until no lumps remain.
• Stir the masa mixture into the chili and cook for 30 more minutes to thicken.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with a wedge of lime.

Nutrition (per serving): 330 kcal, 28g protein, 14g carbs, 17g fat

Storage: The chili will thicken even more as it cools, so just add a splash of water when reheating.

19. Smoky Chipotle and Black Bean Chili

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 6 hrs | Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Easy

Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce bring a deep, fiery smoke that is impossible to miss. This is for the person who likes a lingering heat at the back of their throat.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 cans black beans, rinsed
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 tsp cumin

How to Prepare:

• Brown the turkey and transfer to the slow cooker.
• Add the black beans, tomatoes, minced chipotles, and spices.
• Cook on low for 6 hours.
• Check the spice level and add an extra teaspoon of adobo sauce if you want more heat.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Serve with warm corn tortillas.

Nutrition (per serving): 290 kcal, 24g protein, 35g carbs, 6g fat

Warning: Chipotle peppers are potent, so start with two and add more only after tasting.

20. White Bean and Roasted Poblano Chili

Prep Time: 25 mins | Cook Time: 5 hrs | Total Time: 5 hrs 25 mins | Serves: 6 | Difficulty: Medium

Poblano peppers have a milder, earthier heat than jalapeños. Roasting them first brings out their full flavor potential before they head into the slow cooker.

Save

Ingredients Needed

• 2 large poblano peppers, roasted and sliced
• 2 cans white cannellini beans, rinsed
• 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 tsp dried oregano

How to Prepare:

• Roast the poblanos in an oven until the skins blister, then peel and slice them.
• Add all ingredients to the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for 5 hours.
• Stir before serving to make sure the flavors are well combined.

Serve it with:

• Perfect pairing: Top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

Nutrition (per serving): 260 kcal, 26g protein, 30g carbs, 4g fat

Pro Tip: To roast peppers quickly, use a gas stove flame or a high broiler setting until the skin turns black.

Getting the Most Out of Your Slow Cooker

Many home cooks make the mistake of adding too much liquid to their slow cooker, which results in a thin, watery chili. Remember that your slow cooker is a closed system, so liquid does not evaporate the way it does on a stovetop. Start with less broth than you think you need; you can always add more at the end, but you cannot take it out once the beans start breaking down.

Another big mistake is skipping the sear. While it adds a few extra minutes of prep, browning your meat in a hot skillet first is the only way to get a deep, complex flavor. Those browned bits in the pan are where all the magic happens. Use a bit of stock or beer to deglaze the pan and scrape them into the slow cooker to ensure you don’t lose that depth.

Finally, consider the timing of your beans. If you are using canned beans, they are already cooked. Adding them at the very start of an eight-hour cook will result in mush. If your recipe calls for a very long cook time, add the beans during the final two hours. This keeps them intact and provides a much better texture for your game day feast.

Equipment You’ll Need

The right gear makes this recipe easier. Here is the essential kitchen equipment we recommend:

chef knife

FAQ

Can I make these recipes ahead of time?

Absolutely. Most chilis actually taste better after sitting in the fridge overnight, as the spices have more time to meld with the meat and beans. Just reheat on the stove or in your slow cooker on low before guests arrive.

Is it safe to leave the slow cooker on while I am at the game?

Yes, slow cookers are designed for unattended cooking. Ensure your device is on a flat, heat-resistant surface away from curtains or other flammable objects to be safe.

How do I fix a chili that is too spicy?

If you accidentally add too much heat, you can balance it by adding more dairy like sour cream, or by stirring in a little extra tomato paste or a splash of lime juice. If it is still too hot, adding more beans or cooked ground meat can dilute the spice intensity.