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–+ servings
Crockpot Chili

Hearty Crockpot Chili: Easy Comfort Food That Wow!

This delicious Crockpot Chili is packed with rich flavors, featuring beef, sausage, and vibrant veggies, ideal for a cozy dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 5 slices Bacon Chopped; substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • 2 pounds Ground Beef 80/20; substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Mild or hot; omit for a meatless version.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Finely diced; can substitute with yellow or orange bell pepper.
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper Finely diced; alternate bell pepper varieties similar.
  • 0.5 cup Celery Finely diced, ~2 stalks; omit for a low-carb option.
  • 1 cup Yellow Onion Finely diced; can substitute with shallots.
  • 1 small Jalapeño Optional, finely diced; replace with bell pepper for milder flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Minced; can use fresh or powdered.
For the Chili Base
  • 6 ounces Tomato Paste Thickens and enriches chili base; can swap with crushed tomatoes.
  • 48 ounces Chili Beans Pinto beans in chili sauce—3x16-ounce cans.
  • 56 ounces Diced Tomatoes Petite diced—2x28-ounce cans; fresh diced can be used.
Seasonings and Flavor
  • 4 tablespoons Chili Powder Core seasoning for heat; adjust quantity for desired heat level.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Contributes earthy notes; can substitute mixed Italian herbs.
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin Provides warm, earthy flavor; coriander can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Adds aromatic profile; fresh basil can be used.
  • 1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt Enhances flavors; can substitute with regular salt plus garlic powder.
  • 0.75 teaspoon Pepper Adds heat; adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional; adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Provides subtle smoky flavor; smoked paprika adds intensity.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Balances acidity; honey or agave can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds depth; soy sauce can be gluten-free alternative.
  • 3 Beef Bouillon Cubes Enhances flavor base; homemade broth can be used instead.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Chili
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 5 slices of chopped bacon until crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  2. Add finely diced red and green bell peppers, celery, onion, jalapeño, and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 5–8 minutes until tender.
  3. Stir in chili powder, dried oregano, cumin, dried basil, and tomato paste to the sautéed vegetables. Cook for an additional 1–3 minutes.
  4. Transfer the sautéed vegetable and spice mix into the slow cooker.
  5. To the slow cooker, add chili beans, diced tomatoes, granulated sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and crumbled beef bouillon cubes. Stir gently.
  6. In the same skillet, brown 2 pounds of ground beef and 1 pound of Italian sausage over medium-high heat for about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  7. Add the browned meat and reserved bacon to the slow cooker.
  8. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Uncover for the last 30 minutes if a thicker consistency is desired.
  9. Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot with toppings like sour cream, cilantro, or shredded cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 900mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 4mg

Notes

For gluten-free options, double-check ingredient labels.

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