Mom’s Crockpot Chili Recipe: A Timeless Comfort Food

Imagine coming home to the smell of a rich, savory chili simmering in your crockpot. It’s a dish that wraps you in warmth and brings a sense of nostalgia with every bite. Mom’s Crockpot Chili Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition, a gathering point for family and friends, and a reminder of the joy of home-cooked food.

This hearty chili combines tender ground beef, flavorful andouille sausage, beans, and spices into a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The best part? It’s easy to make and tastes even better the next day.

Why You’ll Love Mom’s Crockpot Chili Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Your crockpot does all the hard work, leaving you more time to relax.
• Packed with Flavor: A perfect blend of spices, savory meat, and beans that’s guaranteed to please.
• Great for Meal Prep: It’s even tastier as leftovers, making it perfect for busy weeks.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to your taste with your favorite toppings or spice level.

Ingredients for Mom’s Crockpot Chili Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering chili:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Lean ground beef	1 lb	A great base for a hearty chili.
Yellow onion	1, diced	Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Red bell pepper	1, diced	For a pop of color and sweetness.
Garlic	4 cloves, minced	Infuses the dish with robust flavor.
Olive oil	3 tbsp, divided	For sautéing and flavor.
Diced tomatoes	14.5 oz can	Provides a fresh tomato base.
Diced tomatoes with green chiles	10 oz can	Adds a subtle kick to the chili.
Tomato sauce	2 x 8 oz cans	Creates a smooth, hearty base.
Chili beans	15 oz can	Adds creaminess and mild spice.
Kidney beans	15 oz can, drained	Adds texture and protein.
Andouille sausage	7 oz, chopped	Brings a smoky, spicy element to the chili.
Chili powder	2 tbsp	The star of the spice blend.
Brown sugar	1 tbsp	Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Cocoa powder	1 tbsp	Adds richness and depth.
Cumin	¾ tbsp	Earthy and aromatic.
Smoked paprika	½ tbsp	Infuses a smoky undertone.
Dried oregano	½ tbsp	For a hint of herbal flavor.
Kosher salt	1 pinch	Enhances the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mom’s Crockpot Chili Recipe

1. Sauté the Ingredients

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Sauté the ground beef, diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.

2. Transfer to Crockpot

• Transfer the cooked mixture (including the juices) to a 6–7 quart crockpot.

3. Add Remaining Ingredients

• Add the diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chiles, tomato sauce, chili beans, kidney beans, and chopped andouille sausage to the crockpot.

4. Season the Chili

• Stir in the chili powder, brown sugar, cocoa powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and kosher salt.
• Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil for added richness.

5. Cook Low and Slow

• Close the lid of the crockpot but do not clamp it shut.
• Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Serve the chili warm with your favorite mix-ins, such as cornbread, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, or sliced green onions.

Pro Tip: This chili tastes even better the next day, so make extra for leftovers!

Serving Suggestions for Mom’s Crockpot Chili Recipe

Toppings to Elevate Your Chili

• Classic Options: Sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions.
• Crunchy Additions: Crushed tortilla chips, fried onions, or croutons.
• Spicy Extras: Sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Perfect Pairings

• Serve your chili with warm cornbread (try a gluten-free mix for dietary needs).
• Pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/6 of recipe)
Calories	~350
Protein	22g
Fat	14g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fiber	8g

Why Mom’s Crockpot Chili Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion

This chili isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, preparing for a family dinner, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe fits seamlessly into your plans.

It’s versatile enough to customize and hearty enough to stand on its own. Plus, the slow cooking process ensures every bite is infused with rich, layered flavors.

FAQs About Mom’s Crockpot Chili Recipe

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef and sausage with plant-based meat alternatives or extra beans for protein.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

3. How can I make this chili spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or extra diced tomatoes with green chiles. Adjust to your spice tolerance.

4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works just as well in this recipe.

5. What’s the purpose of cocoa powder in chili?

Cocoa powder adds a subtle depth and richness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, as long as your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the ingredients. Adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

The Perfect Comfort Food Awaits

There’s nothing like a warm, hearty bowl of Mom’s Crockpot Chili Recipe to bring comfort to your day. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and a guaranteed hit with everyone who tries it.

Gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and let the magic happen. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this chili will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Call to Action: Ready to get started? Share your chili creations on social media and tag your friends—this recipe is too good to keep to yourself! Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting classic.

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