Crockpot Chili Recipe

This easy Crockpot Chili recipe is a perfect blend of flavors that warms you up on chilly days. With minimal prep and the ability to tailor it to your taste, this dish is excellent for family dinners, game days, or meal prepping for the week. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Rich and Hearty Flavor: Each bite offers a delightful mix of spices and ingredients that warm your soul.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado for an extra kick.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from lean beef and beans, this chili is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Crockpot Chili recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker (crockpot)
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking; perfect for busy schedules.
• Large skillet: Ideal for browning meat evenly before adding it to the crockpot.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and ingredients.

Ingredients

This easy Crockpot Chili recipe is delicious, hearty, and perfect for chilly weather! Super easy to make and perfect for loading up with all your favorite toppings!

For the Meat

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 pound chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage (or spicy chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage)

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (seeded and chopped)
• 1 to 2 garlic cloves (minced)

For the Beans and Tomatoes

• 30 ounces kidney beans (rinsed well and drained)
• 15 ounces pinto beans (rinsed well and drained)
• 29 ounces diced tomatoes (use the entire can, juice and all)

For the Sauces

• 3 ounces tomato paste
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or granulated sugar

How to Make Crockpot Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meats

Brown the ground beef and chicken sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until mostly cooked through. A little pink is fine as it will finish cooking in the crockpot.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir to combine. Cook over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Transfer the meat mixture from the skillet into a 6-quart crockpot or slow cooker.

Step 4: Add Beans

Add both kidney beans and pinto beans into the crockpot.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Sauces

Top with diced tomatoes (including juice), tomato paste, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and hot sauce.

Step 6: Season It Up

Next add all seasonings: chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 7: Cook It Low or High

Place the lid on your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally during cooking if possible.

Step 8: Serve with Toppings

Serve hot with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, corn chips, or tortilla chips. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Chili Recipe

Serving your Crockpot Chili is an enjoyable experience that allows for creativity with toppings and sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: A classic choice, sprinkle cheddar or Monterey Jack for a creamy finish.
• Sour Cream: Adds a cool, tangy contrast to the spiciness of the chili.
• Sliced Avocado: Fresh avocado complements the flavors and adds richness.
• Chopped Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and a hint of onion flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro brightens the dish with its fresh herb flavor.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Soft and sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips offer a delightful texture contrast and can be used for dipping.
• Rice: Serve your chili over white or brown rice for a hearty meal option.

How to Perfect Crockpot Chili Recipe

Perfecting your Crockpot Chili requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your dish.

• Bold Flavor Boost: Add more spices gradually as you taste, ensuring balanced flavors throughout.
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality meats for the best taste and texture.
• Layering Technique: Layer ingredients in your crockpot; start with beans at the bottom, followed by meat and then liquids on top.
• Cook Low and Slow: For maximum flavor development, opt for cooking on low for longer periods rather than high heat.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Chili enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread: A sweet, moist accompaniment that complements the heat of the chili beautifully.
2. Rice: White or brown rice serves as a great base, absorbing the rich flavors of the chili.
3. Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a crunchy texture and balances out the hearty chili.
4. Coleslaw: The creaminess of coleslaw contrasts nicely with spicy chili, providing a refreshing bite.
5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for a filling meal option.
6. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up chili while adding a savory flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Chili can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Browning: Not browning the meat first can lead to a less flavorful chili. Take the time to brown the beef and chicken sausage for deeper flavors.
• Overloading with Beans: While beans are essential, adding too many can make the chili too thick. Stick to the recommended amounts for a balanced consistency.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can result in bland chili. Make sure to use the right spices and taste as you go.
• Cooking on High Too Long: Cooking on high heat for too long may dry out your ingredients. Follow the cooking times closely for best results.
• Not Letting It Rest: Serving immediately after cooking can miss out on flavor development. Letting it sit for 15-30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Use within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crockpot Chili Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Best used within 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Crockpot Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this a great Crockpot Chili Recipe?

This Crockpot Chili recipe is hearty and satisfying, filled with nutritious beans and lean meats that create a rich flavor profile perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Crockpot Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like corn or zucchini, switch up the beans, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to cook this Crockpot Chili Recipe?

Cooking time varies; it takes about 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in your slow cooker.

What toppings work well with this Crockpot Chili Recipe?

Toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or tortilla chips enhance the chili perfectly. Get creative!

Conclusion

This easy Crockpot Chili recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that bring comfort on chilly days. With its versatility, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Give it a try and enjoy all your favorite toppings!

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