Description

Hearty, smoky, and loaded with bold spices, this double-batch chili is a true crowd-pleaser—and a certified cook-off champion. With layers of slow-cooked beef, sausage, and beans simmered to perfection, it’s comfort food that goes the distance. Make it once and it just might become your signature dish.

Ingredients

• 10 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 red bell peppers, finely diced
• 2 green bell peppers, finely diced
• 1 cup celery, finely diced (4 stalks)
• 2 cups yellow onion, finely diced (2 small)
• 2 small jalapeños, finely diced (optional)
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 12 oz tomato paste
• 6 cans (16 oz each) chili beans in sauce (pinto preferred)
• 4 cans (28 oz each) petite diced tomatoes
• 4 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 2 lbs Italian sausage (mild or hot)

Seasonings
• 8 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp dried oregano
• 4 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 2 tsp seasoned salt
• 1½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika (twist!)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (twist!)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 6 beef bouillon cubes

Instructions

In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside. Sauté peppers, celery, onion, jalapeño, and garlic in bacon drippings until softened.

Add tomato paste and cook 2–3 minutes. Transfer mixture to crockpot.

Brown beef and sausage in the same skillet. Drain excess fat and add to crockpot.

Stir in beans, tomatoes, all seasonings, sugar, Worcestershire, and bouillon.

Cook on low for 8 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.

Serve hot with your favorite toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, avocado, or cornbread.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Category: Dinner, Main Course

Nutrition

Calories: ~400
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g