Name: Award-Winning Crockpot Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 large onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tbsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 bottle (12 oz) dark beer (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

This award-winning crockpot chili is a soul-warming, flavor-packed dish that slow-cooks to perfection. Made with a blend of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and bold spices, this chili delivers a deep, smoky richness. The crockpot does all the work, infusing every bite with incredible taste—perfect for cozy dinners or game day feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of chili, and this crockpot version is a game-changer. It simmers low and slow, allowing the flavors to meld into a deep, robust taste that rivals any chili cook-off winner. The ease of preparation means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days. The balance of heat, sweetness, and smokiness ensures every bite is packed with irresistible depth. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, potluck, or tailgating event, this chili will have everyone coming back for seconds. Bonus: It tastes even better the next day!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Brown the Meat First: Sautéing the beef before adding it to the crockpot deepens the flavor and adds a delicious caramelized richness.

Don’t Skimp on Spices: Chili needs time to develop its flavors. Adding a well-balanced mix of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne creates a complex depth of taste.
Use Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: They add a subtle smokiness that enhances the chili’s flavor profile.
Layer Ingredients Wisely: Placing the beans on top of everything helps prevent them from becoming too mushy during slow cooking.

Let It Rest: Allow the chili to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving—this lets the flavors meld even more.

Yield: Serves 6

Award-Winning Crockpot Chili Recipe

A hearty, slow-cooked crockpot chili packed with bold spices, ground beef, tomatoes, and beans for an award-winning, cozy comfort meal.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 15 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups low-sodium beef broth

2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 bottle (12 oz) dark beer (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Transfer to the crockpot.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 more minute. Transfer to the crockpot.

Layer Ingredients: Add fire-roasted tomatoes, drained beans, beef broth, spices, and cocoa powder. Stir everything gently to combine.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.
Final Adjustments: Taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed. If it's too thick, add a splash of broth.

Let It Rest: Once done, let the chili sit for 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to fully develop.
Serve and Enjoy! Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro. Pair with cornbread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 568Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 135mgSodium 728mgCarbohydrates 30gFiber 6gSugar 11gProtein 48g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor:

Ground Beef (or Turkey): Use high-quality, lean ground beef for a rich taste, or substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option. If using turkey, add an extra tablespoon of olive oil to enhance moisture.
Onion & Garlic: Freshly chopped onions and minced garlic add an aromatic depth that forms the base of the chili.

Bell Peppers: These add a slight sweetness that balances the heat of the spices. Use red or yellow for a sweeter touch or green for a more traditional, earthy flavor.
Tomato Paste & Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Tomato paste intensifies the umami depth, while fire-roasted tomatoes bring a slightly smoky edge.
Kidney & Black Beans: These provide hearty texture and protein. You can also use pinto beans for a creamier consistency.

Beef Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the meaty flavor. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Cayenne: The spice blend is the heart of the chili—adjust the cayenne based on your heat preference.
Cocoa Powder (Secret Ingredient!): A small amount of unsweetened cocoa powder intensifies the richness of the chili without making it taste like chocolate.

Dark Beer (Optional): A splash of stout beer deepens the flavors, making it extra robust.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Replace ground meat with an extra can of beans, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives. Add diced sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
Low-Carb Version: Omit beans and add extra ground meat and diced mushrooms for a meaty texture without the carbs.

White Chicken Chili Twist: Swap the beef for shredded chicken, use white beans instead, and replace tomatoes with green chilies and cream cheese.
Texas-Style Chili: Skip the beans entirely and double the amount of beef for a traditional Texas-style chili.
Spicy Lovers’ Chili: Add extra jalapeños, a teaspoon of chipotle powder, or a diced habanero for a serious kick.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even better!
Freezer: Let the chili cool completely, then store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. For microwaving, heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between.