BOLD THREE-MEAT CROCKPOT CHILI

This Three-Meat Crockpot Chili is built on bold, comforting ingredients—three kinds of meat, a trio of beans, rich tomato products, and warm spices that simmer together into deep, slow-cooked flavor. A satisfying chili that’s perfectly balanced and irresistibly cozy.

This is my go-to chili when I want something hearty and full of flavor, made with a mix of meats, beans, and tomato ingredients. It’s an easy weeknight meal that can be prepped in the morning and left to cook low and slow, so dinner is ready by the time everyone’s home. Everything comes together into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal my family always enjoys.

Why you’ll love this Simple Chili Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: Combining three types of meat adds depth and complexity to each bite. While the blend of spices and ingredients creates a well-rounded taste without overwhelming flavors.
• Easy Preparation: The crockpot method allows for simple preparation and minimal cleanup. Once the ingredients are in the slow cooker, it requires little attention until it’s done.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This chili is ideal for feeding a crowd during events or family gatherings. It’s the ultimate cozy dish, perfect for cold weather or casual dining!

Ingredients for Best Crockpot Chili

Meat: You need 1 lb. of each ground beef, ground pork, and bacon for this three-meat chili recipe.

Onion: One white onion, diced, adds a lovely subtle, sweet taste to this dish.

Beans: Add one 15-oz can of each kidney, chili, and black beans (drained) for a protein filled dish.

Tomato ingredients: For wonderful flavor use one 14-oz can of diced tomatoes (undrained), one 8-oz can of tomato sauce, and a 12-oz can of tomato paste.

Broth: 2 cups of beef broth creates amazing taste and texture too.

Seasonings: Use 1 TBSP of chili powder, 1 TBSP of minced garlic, 2 tsp of each dried oregano and cumin, plus 1 tsp of salt.

Brown sugar: Cut the acidity in this chili by adding 1 TBSP of brown sugar to the mixture.

Worcestershire sauce: For a slightly tangy taste, use 1 tsp of Worcestershire sauce.

What to do when Crockpot Chili is too spicy

It is totally okay if your Crockpot Chili gets too spicy! My kids have different spiciness tolerance levels, so I have had to find ways to make this Slow Cooker chili less spicy after it’s been made.

Beans: Firstly, add more beans. Adding more beans dilutes the spiciness and is a big plus if your kids are bean lovers like mine.

Milk: Secondly, add milk. It makes the chili creamier, and totally pulls back the spiciness level of the chili, and usually any other spicy dish.

Sour cream: Adding sour cream or cheese is my favorite way to dilute spice. I add sour cream and cheese to my chili anyway, but that’s just because I love the taste! However, if you find you chili’s spiciness level got too out of hand, just add some extra sour cream and cheese and it will totally take it down a notch.

How long is this Homemade Chili good for?

Crockpot chili keeps very well, making it perfect for leftovers and meal prep. Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the chili cool completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

This chili freezes beautifully too. Allow it to cool fully, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top freezer bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I make a flavorful chili without including beans?

Yes, a flavorful chili can be made without beans. To maintain protein content, consider adding more meat or incorporating other sources like lentils or textured vegetable protein. Adjust the spices and seasonings to enhance the overall flavor without the beans.

What do I do when my Homemade Chili is too thick?

If chili is too thick, thin it out by adding beef broth or vegetable broth slowly until the desired consistency is reached. Stir well to incorporate the liquid. Alternatively, adding canned diced tomatoes can enhance the flavor while adjusting thickness.

Don’t add water; it will just take the flavor right out of your delicious dish.

What toppings do you put on Crockpot Chili?

Like I said above, I love adding sour cream and cheese on my chili. However, there are tons of other toppings that people love. Depending on the crowd you’re feeding, people may want to add avocado, onion, lettuce, olives, fresh tomatoes, green onion, guacamole, tortilla chips, salsa, or even hot sauce on their chili.

Love this Chili recipe? Try these other stew recipes!

• This Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is made with simple ingredients that let the roasted squash shine. It tastes slow-simmered and indulgent, yet comes together easily for a comforting meal you’ll want to make again and again.
• Slow Cooker Wendy’s Copycat Chili cooks effortlessly in the crockpot for bold, comforting flavor. This hearty beef chili tastes just like the classic—and is perfect for an easy, satisfying meal at home.
• This flavorful Slow Cooker Beef Stew features tender beef chuck, classic vegetables, and a rich broth infused with red wine and warm herbs.
• Our recipe for 20-Minute Chicken Stew comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something warm and satisfying. A hearty, comforting dinner made easily!
• French Onion Tomato Soup blends the rich, savory flavors of classic French onion soup with the bright, tangy taste of tomatoes. This comforting, hearty twist is perfect for warming the soul while delighting a variety of palates.

Bold Three-Meat Crockpot Chili has 3 different kinds of meat and beans! Crockpot Chili recipe made with beef, pork and bacon that’s loaded with fantastic bold flavor. Best Homemade Chili that serves a crowd!