Brown 1 to 2 pounds of ground beef, turkey, or sausage in a skillet
Drain excess fat
Add the meat to the crock pot
Add 1 chopped onion
Add 2 to 4 minced garlic cloves
Add 1 to 2 cans of beans, drained and rinsed
Add 1 to 2 cans of diced tomatoes
Add 1 can of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
Add 1 to 2 cups of broth or water
Add 1 to 3 tablespoons of chili powder
Add 1 teaspoon of cumin
Add 1 teaspoon of salt
Add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Add 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper if desired
Stir everything together
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours
Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours
Stir before serving
Taste and adjust seasoning
Serve with toppings if desired