Print

Creamy Slow Cooker Turkey Chili: 5 Ingredients

creamy slow cooker turkey chili - featured image
Print Recipe

A rich, comforting, and easy-to-make turkey chili that uses only a few pantry staples. The addition of cream cheese creates a luxurious, creamy texture without the heavy prep work, making it perfect for busy weeknights or game day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 15 oz canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 15 oz canned kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 8 oz full-fat brick-style cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes with green chiles
  • 2 tbsp chili powder blend
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the aromatics by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. If desired, brown the ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. This takes about 5-7 minutes. If skipping browning, set raw turkey aside.
  2. Add the browned (or raw) turkey into the slow cooker. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sprinkle chili powder and cumin over the meat and stir gently to coat.
  3. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chiles (do not drain). Add the rinsed black beans and kidney beans. Stir everything together until well combined.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 3-4 hours if short on time. Avoid lifting the lid frequently.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, cut the cream cheese into small cubes. Stir the cubes into the hot chili. The residual heat will melt it. If not fully melted after 15 minutes, cover and let sit for another 10 minutes. Do not boil vigorously.
  6. Taste the chili and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

For best results, add cream cheese in the last 30 minutes to prevent separation. Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easier melting. If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some beans against the side of the pot before adding the cream cheese. For a spicy version, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check labels on spices and canned goods.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker turkey chili, creamy chili, easy dinner, game day food, healthy turkey chili, one pot meal, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://twirltaste.com/creamy-slow-cooker-turkey-chili-5-ingredients/