When the weather turns crisp and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like the warming embrace of a hearty soup. Recently, I found myself longing for a comforting meal that could be ready when I got home from a busy day. That’s when I decided to whip up this Filling Crockpot Chili Soup, and honestly, it was a revelation. The delightful blend of lean ground beef, colorful veggies, and a symphony of spices created a rich, savory aroma that filled my kitchen—proof that good food doesn’t have to take hours.
This one-pot wonder not only satisfied my cravings but also left plenty of room for customization. Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or prefer a milder flavor profile, this chili soup has you covered. Perfect for scooping with cornbread or serving over rice, it’s comfort food that easily adapts to your tastes, making it a must-try for any weeknight dinner. Grab your crockpot, and let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!
Why is Filling Crockpot Chili Soup so special?
Ease of Preparation: With just a few minutes of setup, this recipe lets your crockpot do the work while you unwind at home.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of lean beef and vibrant vegetables creates a savory medley that warms the soul on chilly evenings.
Versatility: Feel free to personalize it! Add extra beans or spice it up with jalapeños, allowing everyone to enjoy their perfect bowl.
Hearty Satisfaction: This isn’t just soup; it’s a meal! Thick and filling, it pairs wonderfully with cornbread or can be served over rice.
Catering to All: Gluten-free and easily adjustable for spice levels, this chili soup is ideal for family dinners, ensuring everyone enjoys their plate.
Filling Crockpot Chili Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Lean Ground Beef – Provides protein and depth of flavor; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, adding a touch more olive oil to compensate for dryness.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes – Adds acidity and moisture; use fresh tomatoes if desired, though adjustments for water may be needed for your Filling Crockpot Chili Soup.
• Cannellini Beans & Borlotti Beans – Supplies fiber and texture; choose any beans, but drain and rinse to avoid cloudiness in the broth.
• Onion, Carrot, Celery – Offers foundational flavor and texture; dice uniformly for even cooking, while bell peppers can be a tasty substitute.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh garlic is essential for a rich taste, though powder can be used in a pinch.
• Worcestershire Sauce – Contributes umami flavor; try soy sauce or tamari as a gluten-free alternative.
For Seasoning
• Red Pepper Flakes – Provides heat; adjust according to your spice preference, or omit for a milder soup.
• Salt & Oregano – Seasoning enhances overall flavor; using fresh herbs can elevate the taste even further.
For Cooking
• Olive Oil – Used for browning the beef; any neutral oil like canola or vegetable can work in a pinch.
How to Make Filling Crockpot Chili Soup
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Dice the Vegetables: Begin by dicing the onion, carrot, and celery into ½-inch pieces. Mince the garlic, ensuring all ingredients are prepped for the perfect blend of flavors in your Filling Crockpot Chili Soup.
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Brown the Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until no pink remains, about 2-4 minutes. This step is key to developing rich flavors.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion has softened and the garlic is fragrant, around 2-3 minutes. This creates a delicious base for your soup.
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Transfer to Crockpot: Carefully transfer the browned beef and aromatic mixture into your crockpot. This combines the delicious flavors from the skillet with the ingredients you’ll add next.
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Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the carrot, celery, canned tomatoes (with juice), drained beans, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and water to the crockpot. Stir well until everything is mixed together nicely.
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Cook and Enjoy: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours. Check for vegetable tenderness around 4.5 hours, ensuring you have that perfect soft and hearty texture.
Optional: Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese and avocado for a delightful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Filling Crockpot Chili Soup Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this comforting dish with these delightful variations!
- Vegetable Boost: Add in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for vibrant color and extra nutrition. It’s a delicious way to sneak in more veggies!
- Lean Protein: Swap the lean ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Just remember to add a smidge more olive oil to keep it moist.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, throw in some sliced jalapeños or additional red pepper flakes for a fiery twist that will warm your soul.
- Plant-Based: Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and using extra beans or lentils instead. It’s hearty and satisfying without sacrificing flavor!
- Flavor Depth: Incorporate a splash of chipotle adobo sauce for a smoky flavor that will elevate your soup. Just a little goes a long way!
- Fresh Herbs: Before serving, stir in fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness that brings alive the rich flavors of the soup.
- Texture Twist: For a different texture, serve the chili over a bed of quinoa or brown rice instead of just enjoying it as a soup. You’ll love the added heartiness!
- Creamy Addition: For those creamy soup lovers, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of cream before serving for an indulgent finish.
What to Serve with Filling Crockpot Chili Soup?
Elevate your cozy meal experience with these delightful pairings that complement your hearty chili soup beautifully.
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Cornbread: This sweet, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth, adding a comforting texture.
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Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and salty, tortilla chips provide a satisfying contrast to the chili’s softness, making for an enjoyable scooping experience.
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Garlic Bread: The aromatic flavor of garlic bread enhances the savory notes of the chili, offering a warm and comforting addition to your meal.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette adds brightness, cutting through the richness of the soup while providing a healthy crunch.
Bring together a balance of textures while enjoying this flavorful soup. A salad makes for a light counterpart, ensuring each bite of chili is perfectly complemented.
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Pickled Jalapeños: If you like some heat, these tangy bites amplify the chili’s flavors without overpowering. They add a zesty kick that’s irresistible!
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Beer or Lemonade: For drinks, a cold beer pairs wonderfully with the spices, while a refreshing lemonade cleanses the palate between bites.
Feel free to mix and match these sides to create a full and satisfying meal experience!
Storage Tips for Filling Crockpot Chili Soup
Fridge: Store your Filling Crockpot Chili Soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. This makes for easy reheating on busy days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Flavor Enhancement: The flavors of the chili soup meld beautifully after a day in the fridge, making leftovers even more delicious.
Make Ahead Options
These Filling Crockpot Chili Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can dice the vegetables and brown the ground beef up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The prepped ingredients will stay vibrant and flavorful; just remember to refrigerate them to prevent spoilage. On the day you plan to serve, simply combine everything in your crockpot, add your canned tomatoes and spices, and let it cook on low for 5-6 hours. This way, you’ll not only save time but also enjoy a hearty meal that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch that day!
Expert Tips for Filling Crockpot Chili Soup
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Brown the Beef Well: Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly browned before adding it to the crockpot. This develops a deeper flavor and prevents a bland soup.
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Watch the Liquid: Keep an eye on the liquid levels during cooking. Avoid adding too much water at once; refer to the prescribed water measurement for your Filling Crockpot Chili Soup.
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Rinse the Beans: Always drain and rinse your beans before adding them. This eliminates excess sodium and starch, preventing cloudiness in your soup’s broth.
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Time Your Vegetables: For the best texture, add garlic and spices early on, but be mindful that overcooked vegetables can become mushy. Check for tenderness at 4.5 hours.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to add additional vegetables or adjust spices, but do so gradually to maintain a balanced flavor and ensure everyone enjoys their bowl.
Filling Crockpot Chili Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for this chili soup?
Absolutely! Lean ground beef is a great choice as it provides good flavor without too much fat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken. Just be sure to add a little extra olive oil to avoid dryness.
How should I store leftovers of the Filling Crockpot Chili Soup?
For optimal freshness, store your chili soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to let it cool down completely before refrigerating. This way, the flavors will stay vibrant, and you can enjoy it throughout the week!
Can I freeze the Filling Crockpot Chili Soup?
Definitely! This soup freezes beautifully. Transfer it into individual portions in freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it’s too thick after thawing, just add a splash of water or broth to reach your preferred consistency.
What should I do if my chili soup is too watery?
If your soup turns out too watery, don’t worry! You can thicken it up by simmering it uncovered on the stovetop for about 10-15 minutes. This will help evaporate some excess liquid. Alternatively, you can blend in a bit of cornstarch mixed with water (1 tablespoon cornstarch to 2 tablespoons water) during the last few minutes of cooking, stirring continuously until thickened.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! This chili soup can be tailored to various dietary preferences. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, always check labels on canned ingredients to avoid any allergens like soy or wheat. Additionally, feel free to customize the ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions!
Comforting Filling Crockpot Chili Soup for Cozy Evenings
Equipment
- crockpot
- - Skillet
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef can substitute with ground turkey or chicken
- 2 cans Canned Diced Tomatoes or fresh tomatoes with adjustments for water
- 1 can Cannellini Beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can Borlotti Beans drained and rinsed
- 1 cup Onion diced
- 1 cup Carrot diced
- 1 cup Celery diced
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce can use soy sauce for gluten-free
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil for browning
For Seasoning
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes adjust to preference
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Oregano
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Dice the Vegetables: Begin by dicing the onion, carrot, and celery into ½-inch pieces. Mince the garlic.
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until no pink remains.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion has softened.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Carefully transfer the browned beef and aromatic mixture into the crockpot.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the carrot, celery, canned tomatoes, drained beans, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings to the crockpot.
- Cook and Enjoy: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours.