Slow Cooker Venison Chili (Crock Pot Deer Chili)

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for fall and winter? This slow cooker venison chili is the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want an easy dinner option, this chili recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort.

Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Venison Chili

This slow cooker venison chili is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or large gatherings. It’s simple to make, feeds a crowd, and the slow cooker ensures the venison becomes tender and flavorful. Whether you have fresh venison from hunting season or you’re using up stored game, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Plus, the rich combination of spices and beans makes this chili a meal you’ll crave throughout the cooler months.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Venison Chili

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious slow cooker venison chili:

Instructions for Slow Cooker Venison Chili

Brown the Venison

Start by browning the ground venison in a skillet over medium heat. This step helps seal in the flavor before slow cooking.

Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Once the venison is browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the chili beans, tomato sauce, red pepper, cumin, masa, chili powder, paprika, salt, oregano, and garlic powder.

Cook on High

Set your slow cooker to high and let it cook for 6-8 hours. For a slower, more infused flavor, you can set it to low and cook for 8-10 hours.

Serve

Once the chili is done, serve it hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or oyster crackers.

Tips for Making the Best Venison Chili

• Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the venison before adding it to the slow cooker gives the meat a richer flavor and better texture.
• Customize the Heat: Like it spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra kick.
• Use Beer for Depth: Replace 12 ounces of the tomato sauce with beer for a richer, more complex flavor.
• Mix in Different Beans: Experiment with black beans or kidney beans to change the texture and flavor profile.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Venison Chili

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! While venison adds a unique, gamey flavor to this chili, you can easily substitute ground beef, turkey, or pork if venison isn’t available.

How do I store leftover chili?

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months—just reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Can I add vegetables to this chili?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, and even carrots can add a nice texture and flavor. Just toss them into the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients.

How do you get the gamey taste out of venison chili?

To reduce the gamey flavor of venison chili, adding acidic ingredients works well. Try fresh lime or orange juice for a balanced, savory taste.

Is a slow cooker better for chili?

Yes, slow-cooking chili enhances its flavor as it allows the ingredients to blend over time, making it richer and more robust. Plus, leftovers freeze beautifully!

Can you put raw meat straight into a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can add raw meat directly to your slow cooker along with other ingredients. Just set it to low or high, and it will cook evenly over several hours.

Can you overcook chili in a slow cooker?

It’s possible, but it takes a long time. After 8-9 hours, chili may start to slightly burn due to the sugars in the tomatoes, so keep an eye on it.

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker venison chili pairs perfectly with a side of warm cornbread or served over baked potatoes for a heartier meal. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for a crunchy, fun twist.

Variations of Slow Cooker Venison Chili

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Add different beans, mix up the spices, or toss in some extra vegetables like bell peppers or onions. For a smoky flavor, try adding chipotle powder or smoked paprika. This recipe is easy to customize to your liking.

Whether you’re new to cooking venison in a crockpot or a seasoned pro, this slow cooker venison chili is a must-try. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for chilly evenings. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your guests or family. Try it today, and it might just become a new favorite in your household!

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