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Crockpot Chili Recipe

Hearty Crockpot Chili Recipe for Ultimate Comfort Food

Enjoy the ultimate comfort with this Crockpot Chili Recipe, combining smoky bacon and two meats for a hearty meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meats
  • 5 slices Bacon Adds smoky depth and flavor; substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
  • 2 pounds Ground Beef (80/20) Provides a rich, meaty texture; can swap for ground turkey with added olive oil for moisture.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Key ingredient for adding complexity; leave out for a beef-only version.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Provides sweetness and crunch; substitute with yellow pepper.
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper Adds vibrant color; use only red bell pepper for milder taste.
  • 0.5 cup Celery Adds subtle vegetal flavor; optional but recommended for depth.
  • 1 cup Yellow Onion Aromatic base that cooks to sweetness; can substitute with shallots.
  • 1 small Jalapeño Adds fresh heat; easily adjusted based on preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Essential for depth; fresh garlic preferred.
For the Sauces & Seasonings
  • 6 ounces Tomato Paste Concentrated flavor that thickens the chili.
  • 48 ounces Chili Beans Pinto beans in sauce add body.
  • 56 ounces Petite Diced Tomatoes Create a smooth texture; do not drain.
  • 4 tablespoons Chili Powder Adjust based on heat preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Contributes earthy notes for balance.
  • 2 teaspoons Cumin Adds warmth; crucial for traditional chili flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Complements the sausage beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 0.75 teaspoon Black Pepper Rounds out flavors; adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper For additional heat; omit for milder chili.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds color and mild flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Balances acidity from tomatoes.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds umami depth.
  • 3 cubes Beef Bouillon Intensifies meaty flavor.

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • skillet
  • slotted spoon
  • wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the chopped bacon over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes until crispy.
  2. Sauté the diced vegetables in reserved bacon grease until tender.
  3. Add chili beans, petite diced tomatoes, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and crumbled bouillon to slow cooker.
  4. Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage, then stir into slow cooker with bacon.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until thick and hearty.
  6. Serve with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 30IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

This chili is perfect for make-ahead meals and tastes even better the next day. Serve with cornbread for a complete experience.

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