There’s something about the smell of chili simmering low and slow that feels like a warm hug after a day that’s been anything but. The kind of meal you come home to, already halfway done, and it’s just waiting there, bubbling quietly on the stove or in the slow cooker. That’s how this venison chili feels—like a secret little comfort, packed with flavors that remind me of camping trips and chilly evenings where all you want is something hearty and honest. I remember one evening, distracted by a random phone call, I almost forgot to switch it off after six hours. The kitchen filled with the deep scent of roasted peppers and smoky spices. It wasn’t a disaster, just a little extra char that somehow made it taste even better, if you can believe it.
Why You’ll Love It
– The slow cooker does most of the work, so you get a rich, developed flavor without hovering over the stove.
– Venison adds a lean, gamey twist that feels special but still familiar in chili form.
– It’s loaded with beans and veggies, making each spoonful a satisfying mix of textures.
– It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No fancy techniques, just good ingredients and time.
– You might find it’s a bit spicier than your usual chili, but that kick grows on you.
If you’re a little hesitant about cooking venison or using a slow cooker, this recipe is a gentle introduction. It’s forgiving, and any tweaks you make only add character. Plus, leftovers reheat like a dream, perfect for busy nights or unexpected guests.
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Venison Chili Slow Cooker
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A hearty and flavorful venison chili slow cooked to perfection, packed with spices, beans, and vegetables for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground venison
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 (14.5 ounces) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 ounces) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 ounces) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (8 ounces) can tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground venison to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6-8 minutes.
Transfer the cooked venison mixture to the slow cooker.
Add diced red and green bell peppers, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
Stir in chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
After cooking, taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
Kitchen Notes
I usually use a basic slow cooker—nothing fancy—and it does the trick every time. Serving this chili with a sprinkle of cheese and a dollop of sour cream is my go-to, though sometimes I’ve thrown in some crushed tortilla chips for a bit of crunch. If you want to mix it up, swapping out the kidney beans for pinto or adding a splash of beer before cooking can be interesting, but I haven’t tested all of these combos extensively. Some days I toss in a bit more cayenne if I’m feeling brave, but I wouldn’t blame you for keeping it mild.
FAQ
Q: Can I use ground beef instead of venison?
A: Definitely, though the flavor will be a bit different—less gamey but still tasty.
Q: How long can I keep leftovers?
A: Stored in the fridge, up to four days; frozen, up to three months.
Q: Is it okay to cook it longer than six hours?
A: You can, but be cautious; too long might dry out the meat or thicken the chili too much.
Q: Can I prepare this without a slow cooker?
A: Yes, stovetop simmering works, just watch it closely and stir more often.
If you’re craving something that feels like a slow-brewed story in a bowl, this venison chili slow cooker recipe might just be your next cozy night hero. Give it a try, save it, and maybe share a bowl with someone who appreciates the simple warmth of a home-cooked meal.