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Crockpot Chili

Crockpot Chili

This Crockpot Chili is a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for chilly days or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Comfort Dinners
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 5 slices bacon, chopped adds a delicious smoky flavor and richness to the chili
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced provides sweetness and vibrant color
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, finely diced adds a slight crunch and earthiness
  • 0.5 cup finely diced celery brings a refreshing crunch and subtle flavor
  • 1 cup finely diced yellow onion enhances the chili’s aroma with its savory sweetness
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional) introduces a touch of heat
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic infuses a depth of flavor that complements the meat
For the Chili Mix
  • 6 ounces tomato paste thickens the mixture and adds a rich tomato flavor
  • 48 ounces chili beans provides heartiness and protein
  • 56 ounces petite diced tomatoes contributes freshness and acidity
  • 2 pounds ground beef delivers robust flavor
  • 1 pound Italian sausage brings a savory spiciness
For the Seasoning
  • 4 tablespoons chili powder essential for smoky spice
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano adds a Mediterranean touch
  • 2 teaspoons cumin provides a warm, earthy flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil enhances the herb flavor
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt elevates the taste
  • 0.75 teaspoon black pepper adds warmth and spice
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) for an extra kick of heat
  • 1 teaspoon paprika lends a sweet smokiness
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce enriches the umami flavors
  • 3 cubes beef bouillon intensifies the meatiness
For Toppings
  • Toppings as desired customize with cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Crockpot

Method
 

Directions
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, then drain on a paper towel.
  2. Add the finely diced red and green bell peppers, celery, onion, jalapeño (if using), and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, dried oregano, cumin, dried basil, seasoned salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), smoked paprika, and tomato paste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then transfer to the slow cooker.
  4. Pour in the chili beans and petite diced tomatoes, then add sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and beef bouillon cubes. Stir gently to combine.
  5. In the same skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage until no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the fat and add to the slow cooker.
  6. Stir in the crispy bacon into the slow cooker with the other ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
  7. When ready, taste the chili and adjust seasonings as desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Chili thickens as it cooks; add broth or water if it gets too thick.

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