Go Back
blank

Crockpot Chili (Cook‑off Winner!)

This award‑winning crockpot chili is slow‑cooked to perfection with ground beef, Italian sausage, beans, veggies, and a bold homemade seasoning blend. Rich, hearty, and packed with flavor!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time8 hours
Total Time8 hours 30 minutes
Servings:10 servings
Calories:620
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 5 slices bacon chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper finely diced
  • ½ cup celery finely diced (about 2 stalks)
  • 1 cup yellow onion finely diced
  • 1 jalapeño optional, finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 6 ounces tomato paste
  • 48 ounces chili beans in chili sauce 3 cans
  • 56 ounces diced tomatoes 2 cans
  • 2 pounds ground beef 80/20
  • 1 pound Italian sausage mild or hot
  • 4 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
  • ¾ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 beef bouillon cubes

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels, then set aside.
  2. In the same skillet with bacon grease, sauté the bell peppers, celery, onion, jalapeño (if using), and garlic until tender, about 5–8 minutes.
  3. Add the tomato paste and chili seasonings to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1–3 minutes.
  4. Transfer the sautéed veggies and seasonings to the slow cooker.
  5. Add the chili beans (with liquid), diced tomatoes (with liquid), granulated sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and beef bouillon cubes to the slow cooker.
  6. In the same skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  7. Add the browned meat and reserved bacon to the slow cooker and stir everything together.
  8. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, until flavors meld and chili is tender.
  9. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve with toppings such as shredded cheddar, sour cream, cilantro, avocado, or tortilla chips.

Notes

This crockpot chili has won multiple chili cook‑offs! For milder heat, omit jalapeño and cayenne. Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Top with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh cilantro. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}