This Crockpot Root Beer Chili is a fun twist on the classic dish! It blends ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a splash of root beer for a sweet and tangy kick.
I love how you can just toss everything into the pot and let it cook while you relax. It’s perfect for game days or cozy nights in! Just grab some cornbread, and you’re set! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer a leaner choice, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian version, try using meat alternatives like lentils or your favorite plant-based ground meat.
Beans: Kidney and black beans bring a great texture and protein boost. You can mix it up with pinto beans or white beans if you like. Canned beans are convenient, but if you prefer dried, just soak and cook them beforehand.
Root Beer: This is the star ingredient that adds a unique sweetness. If you’re looking for a non-soda option, consider using root beer extract with some water or simply add a bit more tomato sauce and brown sugar for sweetness.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies! Corn is great, but you could also add diced zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition. If you want a bit of heat, throw in some jalapeños.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Ground Beef?
Browning the ground beef properly gives your chili a deeper flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a skillet over medium heat. Don’t rush this step; start with a hot skillet.
- Add the ground beef and let it sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes. This helps it brown better.
- As it starts to cook, break it apart with a spatula. Continue until there’s no pink left.
- Drain excess fat by tilting the skillet slightly, letting the grease gather, and using a spoon to remove it.
This small step boosts the overall flavor of the dish, making your chili even more comforting!
Crockpot Root Beer Chili Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green 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 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup root beer (regular, not diet)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chili takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and then simmers in the crockpot. You can cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. So, set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and fully cooked. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Sautéing Vegetables:
Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté these veggies for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften. This adds a wonderful flavor to your chili!
3. Moving to the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked beef and veggies into your crockpot. Make sure to scrape the skillet to get all those delicious bits in!
4. Mixing in the Rest:
Now, add the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes (with the juice), corn, tomato sauce, and root beer into the crockpot. Stir everything together so that it’s well combined.
5. Seasoning the Chili:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything one more time, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. If possible, give it a stir occasionally for even cooking.
7. Adjusting Flavors:
When you’re ready to serve, taste your chili! You may want to add a bit more salt or adjust the spices to your liking.
8. Serving Your Chili:
Dish the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions if you’d like. Enjoy your comforting bowl of root beer chili!
This chili is a fantastic mix of flavors, combining the sweetness of root beer with savory spices. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy your delicious meal! 🍲
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, and it will still taste fantastic in the chili.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like soy crumbles. You can also increase the amount of beans and add diced vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes! This chili freezes really well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
What Should I Serve with Root Beer Chili?
This chili pairs nicely with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. It also works well as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos—perfect for a fun and filling meal!
