This tasty Crockpot Root Beer Chili mixes the sweet flavor of root beer with spicy meats and beans. It’s perfect for a cozy night or game day!
I love how easy this chili is to make. Just toss everything in the Crockpot and let it do the work—no fuss! You’ll feel like a kitchen pro with minimal effort. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its richness, but ground turkey is a leaner choice. For a vegetarian option, try using a meat substitute like lentils or chopped mushrooms for texture.
Root Beer: This is what gives the chili its unique sweetness. If you’re looking for a different flavor, consider using Dr. Pepper or another soda, but stick to the regular sugar versions for best results.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add moisture and acidity. You can use crushed tomatoes or even fresh diced tomatoes if you have them on hand. Fresh tomatoes can bring a vibrant taste!
Beans: Kidney and black beans are great for texture and protein. Feel free to mix it up with pinto or chickpeas based on what you have available.
Cayenne Pepper: If spice isn’t your thing, skip it or reduce the amount. Smoked paprika gives a nice smokiness without the heat, which I really enjoy.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chili?
The key to a great chili is in the layering of flavors. Start by browning the meat well; this creates a base. I recommend using fresh ingredients like garlic and onions to enhance the overall taste.
- Cook the meat until nicely browned, don’t rush it, as it adds depth.
- Mix in the spices while cooking the meat; it helps to release their flavors.
- Don’t forget to let it simmer — the longer, the better! Allowing the chili to cook low and slow really melds the flavors together.
Before serving, give the chili a good stir and taste to adjust seasoning. If it’s too sweet, add a bit of extra salt or a squeeze of lime to balance it out!
How to Make Crockpot Root Beer Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup root beer (regular, not diet)
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
For Topping (Optional):
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chili will take about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll let it cook in the Crockpot for 6 to 8 hours on low, or 3 to 4 hours on high. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors will meld together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep your chili nice and light.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot:
Once the meat is cooked, transfer it to your Crockpot. Now, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, minced garlic, kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes into the pot. It’s coming together nicely!
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Pour in the root beer, and sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and tomato paste. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This mix is going to create an amazing flavor!
4. Let It Cook:
Cover the Crockpot with its lid and set it to cook. Choose low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Relax and let the magic happen! The chili will thicken and the flavors will blend beautifully.
5. Final Touches:
When the cooking time is up, give the chili a good stir. Taste it and adjust any seasoning if necessary; some might like it a bit spicier!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your root beer chili hot in bowls, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions if you like. Enjoy this delightful sweet and spicy dish with family or friends!
This chili is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef in this recipe. It will still provide excellent flavor, especially when cooked with all the spices and root beer.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this chili vegetarian, omit the meat and use additional beans or lentils for protein. You can also add extra veggies like zucchini or corn for more texture and flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well; just portion it out in freezer-safe bags for a quick meal later!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder chili, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can also enhance the flavor with milder spices like paprika instead of heating it up!
