This kid-friendly chili recipe is loaded with healthy vegetables, which are pureed and added to the meat so that your family (especially picky eaters) won’t even know that they’re there! It can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, and it’s also easy to make gluten-free and dairy-free.

A lot of chili recipes and small kids don’t mix. They’re just too spicy.

Heck, a lot of chili recipes and I don’t mix. If something’s too spicy, I just can’t enjoy it.

So today’s recipe is light on the spice. If you like the extra veggies in this recipe but still want it spicy, just add more heat.

If you want spicy chili without the added vegetables, check out my Big Batch Three Bean Chili with Beef. For another hearty option that kids will love, try my Venison Chili.

The vegetables in this recipe add delicious flavor, but they don’t taste anything like raw vegetables.

Today’s recipe has a savory and slightly sweet taste. The sweetness cuts the spicy flavors a little, bringing out savory flavors more.

Due to the veggies and beans, this is a higher fiber version of chili, and it’s very hearty. It’s very thick and filling and will keep you (and the little ones) full for a long time.

Do I Have to Cook the Meat First?

Yes! Browning the ground beef first gives it a richer, more savory flavor and improves its texture.

I know it’s tempting to dump everything into the slow cooker and be done with it, but don’t skip this step. The browned meat also needs to cook with the pureed vegetables until most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Putting raw meat into the slow cooker and pouring the green vegetable puree over the top won’t give you the same results.

For another kid-friendly recipe with ground beef, check out this Gluten Free Tamale Pie Recipe!

Can I Cook This Crockpot Chili Recipe on the Stove?

Yes, you can cook this in a large Dutch oven or stockpot on the stove, but it will need to be watched a little more closely than if you use a slow cooker.

Is This Chili Spicy?

No, this is a very mild chili with a savory flavor. If you prefer more heat, you can add extra chili powder, hot sauce, cayenne or chopped jalapenos to taste.

How to Make Ahead and Store

This chili is great for making ahead! Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

I like freezing it in individual portions so I can defrost a quick lunch. Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat until steaming hot.

How to Make This Chili Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free

To make this chili gluten-free and dairy-free, check the labels on your Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce and BBQ sauce.

Lea & Perrins Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free in the US, but versions sold in other countries may contain barley malt vinegar, which contains gluten. Always check the label, even if you’ve used the same brand before.

For the BBQ sauce, I like using Sweet Baby Ray’s Honey BBQ Sauce. Check the label to make sure the version you’re using meets your dietary needs.

If you try this kid-friendly chili out, I’d love to hear what you think! Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Cornbread – my Dairy-free Cornbread is my favorite! You can make it with all-purpose, whole wheat or gluten-free flour. This Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Cornbread also looks fantastic.
Rice – serve the chili over rice for an extra-hearty meal.
Baked potatoes – use the chili as a topping for these Air Fryer Baked Potatoes.
Grilled cheese – serve a grilled cheese sandwich alongside the chili for a comforting, kid-friendly dinner.