Ultimate Slow Cooker Chili Recipe: Hearty, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion? This Ultimate Slow Cooker Chili is packed with bold flavors, tender meats, and hearty beans, making it the ideal dish for cozy nights, game days, or meal prep. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this chili recipe is a must-try for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike!

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 to 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 30 ounces kidney beans (2 cans), rinsed and drained
• 15 ounces pinto beans (1 can), rinsed and drained
• 29 ounces diced tomatoes, with juice
• 3 ounces tomato paste
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or granulated sugar)

Preparation

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until mostly cooked through. A little pink is fine.
2. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, stirring until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
4. Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and hot sauce.
5. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, pepper, and brown sugar until well combined.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla chips.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Enjoy this flavor-packed chili that’s sure to become a family favorite!