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Chili Cook-Off Winner Crockpot Chili

Chili Cook-Off Winner Crockpot Chili: Hearty Comfort in a Bowl

Enjoy the award-winning Chili Cook-Off Winner Crockpot Chili, brimming with hearty flavors and a delightful hint of sweetness. Perfect for potlucks and weeknights!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Chili Base
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or any neutral oil
  • 1 pound Ground Beef or ground turkey
  • 1 cup Chopped Onion substitute with shallots or leeks if desired
  • 3 cloves Garlic minced
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes fresh tomatoes can be used
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce
  • 1 can Black Beans or omit for beanless chili
  • 1 can Kidney Beans or omit for beanless chili
  • 1 cup Sweet Corn frozen corn is a great substitute
  • 2 cups Beef Broth vegetable broth is a lighter option
Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder adjust based on heat preference
  • 1 tablespoon Cumin
  • 1 tablespoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar or agave syrup, omit for less sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder or a touch of dark chocolate for richer flavor

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, sautéing until translucent (about 5 minutes). Incorporate ground beef, cooking until browned (about 8 minutes). Stir in minced garlic for an additional minute, then drain excess fat.
  2. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, black beans, kidney beans, and sweet corn. Pour in beef broth and stir in spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, brown sugar, and cocoa powder.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until chili is thick and bubbly. The inviting aroma will fill your kitchen.
  4. About 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or chili powder as desired.
  5. Serve hot in bowls and garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh green onions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For the best chili, consider sautéing spices with the onions and garlic. This chili is freezer-friendly, storing well for up to 3 months. Use airtight containers for storage.

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