Description

This hearty crockpot chili recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef, Italian sausage, and delicious vegetables for a comforting meal that simmers to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

5 slices bacon chopped

1 red bell pepper finely diced

1 green bell pepper finely diced

1/2 cup finely diced celery

1 cup finely diced yellow onion

1 small jalapeño optional finely diced

1 tablespoon minced garlic

6 ounces tomato paste

48 ounces chili beans

56 ounces petite diced tomatoes

2 pounds ground beef

1 pound Italian sausage

4 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon dried oregano

2 teaspoons cumin

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon seasoned salt

3/4 teaspoon pepper

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

1 teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

3 beef bouillon cubes

toppings as desired

Instructions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove and place on a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Set aside.
Leave the bacon grease in the skillet. Add the bell peppers, celery, onion, jalapeño, and garlic. Sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally until tender, about 5–8 minutes. Add the seasonings and tomato paste and cook until fragrant, 1–3 more minutes. Transfer everything to the slow cooker.
Add the chili beans (with liquid), diced tomatoes (with liquid), sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and crumbled bouillon cubes to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, cook and crumble the ground beef and Italian sausage over high heat until deeply browned. Drain excess fat, then add the meat to the slow cooker along with the bacon. Stir everything well.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and Cheddar cheese.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the spiciness by adding more or less jalapeño and cayenne pepper. Top with your favorite chili toppings for added flavor.

Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 480
Category: Main Course
Method: slow cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 280 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 8 g
Protein: 18 g
Cholesterol: 50 mg

Keywords: crockpot chili recipe, chili, slow cooker, comfort food, hearty meal