Ultimate Low-Point Weight Watchers Chili: A Hearty Slow Cooker Favorite
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chili to chase away the chill of a cold day. This Weight Watchers Chili recipe delivers on all fronts: it’s incredibly thick, richly meaty, and bursts with a complex depth of flavor. Thanks to a perfectly balanced blend of warming spices, savory beans, lean beef, and a luscious tomato base, it’s a classic cold-weather favorite made effortlessly simple using your trusty crock pot. With just 15 minutes of active prep time, you can set it and forget it, coming home to a house filled with inviting aromas and a satisfying meal ready to enjoy.
Imagine starting your day by tossing a few simple ingredients into your slow cooker. As the hours pass, the magic happens, and by evening, you’ll be greeted by the delicious, nourishing flavors of this smoky, subtly spicy, and protein-packed one-pot wonder. This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s also incredibly family-friendly and diet-conscious. It yields 9 generous servings, each coming in at an impressive 4 Weight Watchers points, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy robust flavor without compromising their health goals. Dive into this hearty, wholesome chili and discover your new favorite way to dine smartly.
Why You Should Make This Classic Weight Watchers Chili Recipe
This savory and filling meat and bean chili isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that promises to delight your taste buds, provide warmth on chilly days, and nourish your body and soul. It’s a perfectly balanced, wholesome one-pot meal that even the pickiest eaters in your family are sure to love. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Forget spending hours in the kitchen! This recipe is designed for maximum convenience. All the ingredients come together in just 15 minutes or even less. Once everything is in the slow cooker, it handles the rest, allowing you to go about your day. For even quicker mornings, you can prep the ingredients the night before, making assembly a breeze.
- Warmth and Nourishment in Every Bite: Whether you’re battling the lingering chill of winter or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish delivers. It features a harmonious blend of warming spices enveloped in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce, creating a deeply satisfying and cozy experience. Each spoonful provides a comforting warmth that truly hits the spot.
- Healthy and Balanced Meal: Eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. This chili masterfully combines lean ground beef and protein-rich beans for a substantial protein boost. These are perfectly balanced by an abundance of nutrient-dense vegetables like tomatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and savory onions. It’s a meal that not only tastes great but also provides essential nutrients to keep you feeling full and energized.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with readily available and affordable pantry staples, this chili is a cost-effective way to feed a crowd or enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. It’s a smart choice for healthy eating on a budget.
- Freezer-Friendly: This recipe makes a large batch, perfect for meal prepping. It freezes beautifully, allowing you to have a delicious, healthy meal on hand for busy weeknights whenever you need it.
Essential Ingredients for Your Spicy Crock Pot Chili
This Weight Watchers chili recipe is celebrated for its classic, robust flavors, and the best part is that it relies on just a few simple and widely accessible ingredients. You likely have many of these staples in your pantry already, making this an easy meal to whip up without a special trip to the grocery store. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this hearty dish:
- 1.5 lbs Extra Lean Ground Beef: Opting for extra lean ground beef is key for keeping the Weight Watchers points low without sacrificing the rich, meaty texture that makes chili so satisfying.
- 2 cups Diced Peppers: I love using a colorful mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers. They add sweetness, a subtle crunch, and a vibrant boost of vitamins and antioxidants to the chili.
- 1.5 cups Diced Red Onion: Red onion offers a slightly sharper, sweeter flavor profile compared to yellow onions, which complements the other ingredients beautifully and adds aromatic depth.
- 1 large can (28 oz) Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes form the base of our savory sauce. You can also use crushed tomatoes if you prefer a smoother consistency, or fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra smoky note.
- 1 can Tomato Paste (5.5oz): This concentrated tomato product is essential for deepening the tomato flavor and adding a rich, thick consistency to the chili without adding excessive liquid.
- 1 can Baked Beans (398ml Heinz Baked Beans recommended): The sweetness and unique tang of baked beans provide a wonderful counterpoint to the savory and spicy elements of the chili, adding another layer of flavor and texture.
- 2 Tbsp Frank’s RedHot Sauce: A touch of Frank’s RedHot sauce introduces a delightful tang and a manageable kick of heat that is characteristic of a great chili without being overwhelmingly spicy.
- 1 Tbsp Chili Powder: The cornerstone spice for any chili, chili powder brings warmth, a touch of earthiness, and a classic flavor profile. If you prefer more heat, you can substitute with red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper: For those who love a bit more spice, cayenne pepper provides a clean, fiery heat that awakens the palate. Adjust according to your preference for heat.
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano: This aromatic herb adds a subtle, earthy, and slightly peppery note that enhances the overall savory profile of the chili.
- 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin: Cumin is crucial for chili, offering a distinct smoky and earthy flavor that is fundamental to authentic chili taste.
- 1 Bay Leaf: A single bay leaf contributes a subtle, herbal background note that beautifully rounds out the flavors during the long simmering process. Remember to remove it before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
While this Weight Watchers chili recipe shines in a slow cooker, it’s versatile enough to be made with other kitchen tools you might already own. I personally favor my crock pot at home due to its unparalleled convenience. It allows for hands-off cooking, letting the flavors meld beautifully over several hours.
However, if a slow cooker isn’t available, don’t fret! Any pressure cooker or Instant Pot would work wonderfully, significantly reducing the cooking time while still achieving tender meat and well-developed flavors. If you prefer a more traditional method or don’t have these appliances, you can easily simmer this recipe on the stovetop. A large skillet or a sturdy Dutch oven will do the trick, allowing the chili to bubble gently until it reaches perfection. The slow cooking (or simmering) process is what truly allows the spices and ingredients to marry, creating that deep, comforting chili experience.
Creative Variations and Smart Substitutions
I adore the classic smoky, savory taste of this chili recipe as written, but one of its greatest strengths is its adaptability. You can easily adjust it to fit various dietary needs, flavor preferences, or simply to use up ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fantastic ideas for variations and substitutions to make this chili uniquely yours:
- Opt for Another Lean Meat: While lean ground beef is fantastic, you can absolutely switch up the protein. This recipe works beautifully as a turkey chili using extra lean ground turkey breast, or with ground chicken breast. Both options maintain the low-point aspect while offering a slightly different flavor profile. Remember to brown these meats thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Switch Out the Beans: I particularly enjoy the hint of sweetness that baked beans bring to this recipe, which sets it apart. However, canned kidney beans (rinsed and drained) or black beans (rinsed and drained) would also be incredibly delicious and classic choices. If you choose to use plain canned beans, you might want to add a bit of extra salt to the recipe, as baked beans typically come with more seasoning. For a mixed bean chili, try a combination of black beans and kidney beans!
- Boost with Extra Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and texture of this already healthy dish by incorporating more vegetables. Diced celery adds a subtle freshness and crunch, while canned or frozen corn offers natural sweetness and a pop of color. You could also stir in some fresh spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added greens. For an extra layer of savory depth, consider sautéing these additional vegetables with a clove or two of minced garlic before adding them to the pot.
- Adjust the Spice Level: This recipe has a moderate kick from the Frank’s RedHot and cayenne. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For a spicier version, increase the cayenne, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, or include a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper (remove seeds for less heat).
- Transform into a Chili Dog: Who doesn’t love a good chili dog? Use your delicious homemade Weight Watchers chili to create a lighter version of this classic comfort food! I suggest using a low-calorie hot dog bun, a lean chicken or turkey sausage, about 1/3 cup of this chili, and a light sprinkle of shredded low-fat cheese. This combination makes for a satisfying and fun meal, typically around 8 WW points, depending on your chosen ingredients.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly: Easily convert this into a vegetarian or vegan chili by omitting the ground beef entirely. Instead, you can add an extra can of your favorite beans (like cannellini or pinto beans), or incorporate a plant-based ground meat substitute for a similar texture. Ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly (check labels for baked beans).
How to Make This Effortless Weight Watchers Chili
One of the best features of this dish is how incredibly simple it is to prepare, largely thanks to the magical convenience of the crock pot! With just a few straightforward steps, you can have a hearty, flavorful meal simmering away with minimal effort. Here’s a detailed guide to making this delicious chili:
- Brown the Ground Beef: Start by browning your extra lean ground beef in a large pan or skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks until it’s fully browned and no pink remains. This step is important for developing flavor. Once cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the pan to keep the chili light and then transfer the browned beef into your slow cooker.
- Combine All Ingredients: Now for the easy part! Add all the remaining ingredients directly into the slow cooker with the browned beef. This includes the diced peppers, red onion, canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, baked beans, Frank’s RedHot sauce, chili powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, ground cumin, and the bay leaf.
- Stir and Cook: Give everything a good, thorough stir to ensure all the ingredients are well combined and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Place the lid on your crock pot. Set your slow cooker to the “High” setting and cook until the chili is visibly bubbling, typically about 1-2 hours. Once it reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat to “Low” and let it simmer for at least 2 more hours. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious chili. A total cooking time of 3-4 hours on low after an initial high heat period is ideal for the best flavor and texture.
Recipe Notes for Perfection
Achieving a perfectly flavorful chili is simple, but a few tips can elevate your results:
- Stovetop Method: If you’re opting for the stovetop instead of a slow cooker, the process is slightly different but just as delicious. After browning the meat and draining the fat, you can sauté the diced peppers and onions in a touch of olive oil in the same pot until softened, typically 5-7 minutes. Then, add the browned meat and all the remaining sauce ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes for quick results, or for up to 2 hours for a deeper, more developed flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Thickening the Chili: If your chili seems a bit too thin after cooking, you can easily thicken it. Remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of simmering to allow some liquid to evaporate, or mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the hot chili and cook for another 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Enhancing Flavor: For an even richer taste, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika alongside the other spices.
Weight Watchers Points Breakdown (Current & Previous Systems)
One of the most appealing aspects of this beef and bean chili recipe is its Weight Watchers friendliness. This recipe yields 9 generous servings, making it a fantastic meal prep option or a healthy dish for family dinners. As the recipe is written, without any optional toppings, here’s a transparent breakdown of the points for this spicy and savory meal:
- Extra-lean ground beef: 18 points (for 1.5 lbs, distributed among 9 servings)
- Diced peppers: 0 points
- Red onion: 0 points
- Diced tomatoes: 0 points
- Tomato paste: 5 points (for 5.5oz can)
- Baked beans: 17 points (for 1 can, using Heinz 398ml as a guide)
- Frank’s hot sauce: 0 points
- Chili powder: 0 points
- Cayenne pepper: 0 points
- Dried oregano: 0 points
- Ground cumin: 0 points
- Bay leaf: 0 points
- Total for entire recipe: 40 points
- Total per serving (1 cup each): 40 points / 9 servings = 4 points per serving
For those familiar with older Weight Watchers systems, here’s how this delicious chili measures up:
- PersonalPoints: 4 PersonalPoints per serving
- SmartPoints: 4 SmartPoints per serving on both the Blue Plan and Green Plan
This low point value makes it an excellent choice for a filling and satisfying meal that keeps you on track with your Weight Watchers journey. Remember that adding optional toppings like cheese, sour cream, or corn chips will increase the point value per serving, so track those accordingly!
Expert Tips and Tricks for Your Hearty Chili
To ensure your Weight Watchers chili is a resounding success every time, consider these helpful tips and tricks:
- Prep in Advance: Make your weeknights even easier by doing some prep work ahead of time. You can brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables the night before. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. In the morning, all you’ll have to do is combine everything in the slow cooker, saving you precious minutes.
- Make it Vegetarian: This recipe is wonderfully adaptable for a meatless version. Simply omit the ground beef entirely. To maintain the hearty texture and protein content, add an extra can (or two) of baked beans, or try a combination of your two favorite beans, such as kidney, black, or pinto beans. You might also consider adding a cup of vegetable broth for extra liquid and depth.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor and Appeal: A few simple garnishes can really elevate the taste and presentation of your chili. Balance the warmth and heat of the dish with a sprinkle of fresh green onions (scallions) and vibrant cilantro. For those not tracking every single point, a dollop of light sour cream or Greek yogurt and a small sprinkle of shredded low-fat cheese can add a creamy richness that is simply irresistible.
- Storage and Freezing: This chili is perfect for leftovers and meal prepping. Store any remaining chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-6 days. It also freezes exceptionally well! Divide cooled chili into individual portion-sized freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Serving Suggestions: Beyond a bowl, chili is incredibly versatile. Serve it over a baked potato (another Weight Watchers friendly option!), with a side of whole-wheat cornbread, or as a topping for nachos made with low-fat tortilla chips.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your chili before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
More Delicious and Healthy Weight Watchers Recipes
Feeling inspired by this spicy, comforting one-pot chili? If you loved the simplicity and flavor of this recipe, you’re in for a treat with more of our healthy and delicious creations. Expand your culinary horizons with these fantastic Weight Watchers-friendly dishes:
Mix things up with my spicy chicken chili, which is packed with tender chicken, wholesome veggies, and loaded with fantastic flavor! Or, for a fun and unexpected chili fusion meal, give these creative white chicken chili tacos a try – they’re a game-changer for taco night!
If a warm, hearty soup is what you’re truly craving, you absolutely can’t go wrong with this incredibly nourishing Weight Watchers cabbage roll soup – it tastes just like the classic dish but in an easy-to-make soup form. Or, for a truly creamy and comforting experience, try our indulgent Weight Watchers baked potato soup, which delivers all the rich flavor of a loaded baked potato without the guilt!
Weight Watchers Chili
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs extra lean ground beef
- 2 cups diced peppers, I used red, green and yellow
- 1.5 cups diced red onion
- 1 large can, 28oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato paste, 5.5oz
- 1 can baked beans, I use a 398ml can of Heinz baked beans
- 2 Tbsp franks hot sauce
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cumin
Instructions
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Brown your ground beef in a pan on the stove, drain and add to crockpot.
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Add in all your other ingredients and stir well.
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Cook on high until bubbling then turn to low and let simmer for 2 hours. Makes 9- 1 cup servings at 4sp or 4pp each.
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Use your chili and make a chili sausage dog. I used a low calorie hot dog bun, 1 chicken sausage, 1/3 cup chili and a sprinkle of cheese for 7pp.
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Nutritional info (not including veggies) per 1 cup serving.. Calories 168… Fat 3.3g… Saturated fat 1g… Carbs 11.9g… Fiber 3.2g… Sugars 4.9g.. Protein 20.1g
Additional Info