Slow Cooker Chipotle Chili
Chipotle Chili is an easy, delicious one-pot dish that will keep you warm and satisfied all winter long. Not only is it an incredibly flavorful and hearty meal, but it’s also great for making in large batches and freezing for later!
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 pound bulk Italian sausage
1 large onion, diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 (16 ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained
2 (16 ounce) cans chili beans, undrained
2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
2 (14.5 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
2 ribs celery, chopped
1 green bell pepper, coarsely chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 (7 ounce) can chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, finely chopped
1/2 (3 ounce) package bacon bits
1 tablespoon chili sauce
1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot®)
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir beef and sausage in the hot skillet until some of the fat renders, 2 to 3 minutes; add onion and garlic and continue to cook and stir until the meats are browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes more. Transfer beef mixture to a slow cooker.
- Stir kidney beans, chili beans, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, celery, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, chipotle chiles, bacon bits, chili sauce, hot pepper sauce, chili powder, brown sugar, cumin, and salt with the beef mixture.
- Cook on Low until vegetables are completely tender but the celery retains a slight bit of firmness, 6 to 8 hours (or 3 to 4 hours on High).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes this recipe so flavorful? A: The combination of spices, peppers, and beans creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to please. The mild heat of the chipotle pepper is balanced out by the classic chili powder and cumin blend, while the tomatoes and beans add texture and moisture to the dish.
Q: Can I freeze this recipe? A: Absolutely! This chili is great for freezing and reheating for an easy meal later. Just make sure to let your chili cool completely and store in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
Q: How can I customize this dish? A: Feel free to experiment with extra ingredients to make the chili your own. Try adding bell peppers, corn, or different types of beans for additional flavor and texture.