Go Back
undefined

Customizable Hearty Crockpot Chili to Warm Your Soul

This customizable hearty crockpot chili is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days, combining savory flavors and easy preparation.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef Substitute with turkey for a leaner option.
  • 1 pound Chicken Italian Sausage Can swap for spicy sausage or eliminate for a vegetarian version.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Any mild onion can work.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Use green bell pepper for a slightly different flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can substitute.
For the Beans
  • 1 can Kidney Beans Other bean varieties can be used as well.
  • 1 can Pinto Beans Can use black beans as an alternative.
For the Base
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes Use canned or fresh, with juice included for richness.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Can omit if reducing overall tomato content.
  • 1 can Tomato Sauce Substitute with crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Vegetable broth is suitable for a vegetarian option.
For the Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can be used as a replacement.
  • 1 tablespoon Hot Sauce Adjust to taste; omit for mild chili.
  • 3 tablespoons Chili Powder Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Essential for authentic chili flavor; can be reduced.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be replaced.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust based on preferred spiciness.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to personal taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper Adjust to personal taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar or Granulated Sugar Can omit for lower sweetness.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Crockpot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef and chicken sausage, cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes until mostly cooked through.
  2. Add the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.
  3. Carefully transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to a 6-quart crockpot. Set the crockpot to the low setting for even cooking.
  4. Layer in the kidney beans and pinto beans, adding texture and protein. Stir them into the meat and vegetable mixture.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce, incorporating moisture and richness. Add Worcestershire sauce and beef broth.
  6. Sprinkle in all your seasonings: chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir to distribute the spices.
  7. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally.
  8. Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot with toppings of shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.

Notes

Consider garnishing with toppings for a delightful finishing touch.