This Crockpot Root Beer Chili is a fun twist on the classic dish! It combines rich ground meat, beans, and a delicious hint of root beer for a sweet touch.
Cooking it in the Crockpot makes it super easy. Just throw everything in and let it simmer all day. Your house will smell amazing, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready with hardly any effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. You could substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Root Beer: It adds a unique sweetness. Don’t have root beer? Try using cola or a mix of soda with a splash of vinegar for a similar effect. Experiment with flavors you enjoy!
Beans: Kidney beans and black beans are classic choices. If you have other beans like pinto or white beans, feel free to mix them in! Canned beans are so convenient and save time.
Chili Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika define the flavor. If short on spices, use a taco seasoning packet, which usually has these and more tasty flavors.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Chili?
The combination of cooking time and spices makes all the difference in chili. For this recipe, browning the meat first builds a rich flavor base. Don’t skip it! Use a large skillet to get good color.
- Cook the meat until browned, then add your veggies. Let them soften before transferring to the slow cooker.
- Let the chili cook on low for the full time to let all flavors blend well. It’s worth the wait!
- Taste it before serving! Adjust spices or add a bit more root beer if needed for sweetness.
Enjoy the rich, bold flavor that comes from taking the time to prepare your ingredients properly! Your chili will be a hit.
Crockpot Root Beer Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (12 oz) can root beer (regular, not diet)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep, then you’ll let it cook in the Crockpot for 6-8 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high). It’s an easy, hands-off meal that you can set up in the morning and enjoy in the evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat to keep the chili from being greasy.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the diced onion, chopped red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. This adds great flavor!
3. Mix in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the meat and veggie mixture to your slow cooker. This is where all the magic happens!
4. Add the Rest of the Ingredients:
In the slow cooker, add the kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, root beer, tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir until well mixed.
5. Cook the Chili:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer, the better; this allows all those flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Final Touches:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, taste the chili. Feel free to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When the chili is finished cooking, ladle it into bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy your delicious, hearty root beer chili!
This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The unique flavor from the root beer gives it a sweet twist that everyone will love!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative. The cook time remains the same, but you might want to season a bit more since these options can be milder in flavor compared to beef.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Chili?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or simply add more beans and vegetables like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even diced jalapeños. You can also use a spicier chili powder blend. Add gradually, tasting along the way to get your desired spice level!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to cool it down first before transferring to the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!