Go Back
Welcome to a culinary journey where the rich flavors of Italy meet the comforting warmth of a classic chili. In this article, we’ll explore the delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Neapolitan Chili, a dish that captures the heart of Italian cuisine while delivering the robust, hearty essence of chili. This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead, allowing you to savor every bite without spending hours in the kitchen. Join us as we delve into the ingredients, preparation steps, and the unique characteristics that set this dish apart.

Slow Cooker Neapolitan Chili

Discover the delicious fusion of Italian and American flavors with this Slow Cooker Neapolitan Chili recipe. Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping, this dish combines ground beef or Italian sausage with fresh vegetables, vibrant tomatoes, and aromatic herbs for a hearty and satisfying meal. Experience the depth of flavor as you follow simple preparation steps. Get ready to warm your home and enjoy every comforting bite of this unique chili creation!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

2 large carrots, diced

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

1 can (15 ounces) tomato paste

1 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon dried basil

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

1 cup cannellini beans (or kidney beans), drained and rinsed

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Cooked pasta (spaghetti or your choice, optional for serving)

Instructions
 

Brown the Meat: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat.

    Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked meat to your slow cooker. To the slow cooker, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and diced carrots. Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.

      Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour the beef broth into the slow cooker. Sprinkle in the dried basil, dried oregano, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you enjoy some heat). Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.

        Cook the Chili: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

          Incorporate Beans: About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, gently stir in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans into the mixture. Allow them to heat through.

            Taste and Adjust: Just before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary with more salt or pepper.

              Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot chili into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For a heartier dish, serve the chili over a bed of cooked pasta.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 6-8 hours | Servings: 6-8

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve in rustic bowls with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping and enjoy the comforting flavors of Neapolitan chili!