The Ultimate Hot and Spicy Bacon & Beef Crock Pot Chili Recipe for Unforgettable Flavor

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this incredible Hot and Spicy Bacon & Beef Crock Pot Chili recipe! Perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave a warm, comforting, and deeply flavorful meal, this slow cooker chili is remarkably easy to prepare. Let your crock pot do all the heavy lifting, simmering a rich blend of savory bacon, tender ground beef, and a medley of spices to perfection. This is more than just a meal; it’s a hearty experience designed to be shared and enjoyed by the whole family. Dive into a bowl of this filling and satisfying chili, and discover why it quickly becomes a favorite in any household.

Why This Slow Cooker Spicy Chili Will Become Your Go-To

There’s nothing quite like walking into your home at the end of a long day and being greeted by the inviting aroma of homemade chili. Our Crock Pot Bacon & Beef Spicy Chili offers unparalleled convenience without compromising on flavor. The slow cooking process tenderizes the meat beautifully and allows the spices to meld together, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with quicker methods. It’s a hands-off approach to cooking that delivers a profoundly satisfying and robust meal, ideal for busy weeknights, game days, or casual gatherings.

This recipe is designed to be incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer a gentle warmth or a fiery kick, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences. Simply modify the amount of jalapeño peppers and chili powder you incorporate. This adaptability ensures that everyone, from the most spice-averse to the most adventurous eaters, can enjoy a bowl tailored just for them.

Mastering the Heat: Customizing Your Chili’s Spice Level

One of the best features of this spicy chili recipe is its flexibility when it comes to heat. We’ve crafted a blend that provides a medium kick, but you’re the chef! If you prefer a milder chili, consider reducing the number of pickled jalapeño peppers or opting for a mild salsa instead of medium. You can also start with less chili powder and add more to taste towards the end of the cooking cycle. For those who crave an extra punch, don’t hesitate to increase the jalapeños, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or even some red pepper flakes. Taste as you go, and remember that the flavors intensify as the chili simmers, so a little can go a long way.

Crock Pot Spicy Bacon and Beef Chili Recipe

Discover how to make a delicious Crock Pot Spicy Bacon and Beef Chili that is super filling and the perfect comfort food, effortlessly prepared in your slow cooker.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 6 hours

Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 803 kcal

Author: Tammilee Tips

Print Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 slices Bacon, crumbled
• 2 ½ pounds Ground Beef
• 1 Onion, chopped
• 3 Tablespoon Chili Powder
• 1 Tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 Tablespoon Brown Sugar, packed
• 15 oz medium heat chili beans
• 6 oz tomato paste
• 1 ½ cups medium salsa
• ¼ cup pickled jalapeno peppers, chopped drained
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish (Optional)

• ¾ cup French Fried Onion Rings
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, Shredded
• Sour cream
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sliced avocado

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve some of the bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until it is thoroughly browned and the onion is softened. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Transfer the browned beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, packed brown sugar, medium heat chili beans (undrained), tomato paste, and medium salsa. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Finally, add the crumbled cooked bacon to the mixture.
4. Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the LOW setting for 6-8 hours, or on the HIGH setting for 3-4 hours, until the chili is hot, flavorful, and the beef is tender.
5. Before serving, give the chili a good stir. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as French fried onion rings, shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy!

Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker (Crock Pot)
• Large skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Based on 6 servings. Values are approximate.

• Calories: 803 kcal
• Fat: 55g (85% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 22g (138% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 164mg (55% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1664mg (72% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 1481mg (42% Daily Value)
• Carbohydrates: 31g (10% Daily Value)
• Fiber: 7g (29% Daily Value)
• Sugar: 13g (14% Daily Value)
• Protein: 46g (92% Daily Value)
• Vitamin A: 2181IU (44% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 14mg (17% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 248mg (25% Daily Value)
• Iron: 8mg (44% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Essential Ingredients for Your Spicy Bacon Beef Chili

The magic of this chili lies in its balanced blend of high-quality ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes each component crucial:

• Bacon: Not just for crunch, the bacon adds a smoky, salty depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish. Cooking it first and using some of its rendered fat to brown the beef infuses the chili with an extra layer of richness.
• Ground Beef: We recommend a lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to minimize excess grease. Browning the beef with onions before adding it to the slow cooker is essential for developing a deep, savory foundation.
• Onion: Aromatic and sweet when cooked, onions provide a foundational flavor that complements the beef and spices.
• Chili Powder: The cornerstone of any great chili, this spice blend provides the classic chili flavor and a good portion of the heat.
• Ground Cumin: Earthy and warm, cumin adds a distinctive, smoky aroma that is quintessential to authentic chili.
• Brown Sugar: A touch of brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the heat of the spices, adding a subtle sweetness and depth.
• Medium Heat Chili Beans: These pre-seasoned beans are a convenient way to add texture, protein, and an extra layer of mild chili flavor. Feel free to use kidney beans or pinto beans if you prefer.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor adds richness and thickens the chili, creating that desirable hearty consistency.
• Medium Salsa: Salsa brings fresh tomato flavor, a touch of acidity, and a complementary spice profile, streamlining the need for multiple chopped vegetables.
• Pickled Jalapeño Peppers: These provide a bright, tangy heat that cuts through the richness of the meat and bacon. For less heat, reduce the amount; for more, feel free to add fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, always adjust to your personal preference.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Toppings

While this Crock Pot Spicy Bacon & Beef Chili is fantastic on its own, it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments and toppings. Here are some ideas to elevate your chili experience:

• Classic Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese and French fried onion rings are fantastic for adding crunch and a creamy, savory note. Don’t forget a dollop of cool sour cream or plain Greek yogurt to balance the spice.
• Fresh Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced avocado can add brightness and a refreshing contrast.
• Crunchy Additions: Crushed tortilla chips, corn chips, or even homemade croutons provide a satisfying textural element.
• On the Side: Serve your chili with warm cornbread, crusty bread for dipping, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
• Creative Combos: Try serving chili over rice, baked potatoes, or even hot dogs for a fun and filling twist. This chili also makes a fantastic base for chili mac and cheese!

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chili

Achieving a truly outstanding slow cooker chili is simple with a few expert tips:

• Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions before adding them to the slow cooker is crucial. This step develops deep, caramelized flavors (Maillard reaction) that you can’t get from simply dumping raw ingredients into the pot.
• Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, always drain off any excess fat. This prevents your chili from becoming greasy.
• Layer Your Flavors: Add spices gradually and taste test. The slow cooking process allows flavors to meld, but ensuring you have the right balance at the start is key.
• Resist the Urge to Peek: Opening the slow cooker lid releases heat and can extend cooking time. Let your crock pot work its magic uninterrupted for the best results.
• Adjust Seasoning at the End: After the chili has finished cooking, taste it and adjust salt, pepper, or any additional spices if needed. This is also a good time to add a touch more heat if desired.
• Storage and Freezing: Chili makes excellent leftovers. Store cooled chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Chili

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be vegetarian! Omit the bacon and ground beef. Replace the meat with an equal amount of mixed beans (such as kidney, pinto, black beans), lentils, or a meat substitute like crumbled plant-based ground. You might want to add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for more texture and flavor.

What if my chili is too thin?

If your chili is too thin, you have a few options: remove the lid and continue to simmer on high for the last hour to allow some liquid to evaporate, or mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the chili during the last 30 minutes of cooking and it will thicken considerably.

What if my chili is too thick?

If your chili turns out too thick, simply stir in a bit of beef broth, vegetable broth, or even water, a quarter cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chili is a fantastic meal prep option. You can cook it entirely, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The flavors often deepen and improve the next day!

What’s the best way to store leftover chili?

Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

More Delicious Chili and Slow Cooker Recipes to Explore

If you’re a fan of easy and delicious slow cooker meals, especially chili, you’re in luck! We have a wide array of recipes to satisfy every craving:

• Best Slow Cooker Crock Pot Chili Recipes – A comprehensive list of our top chili picks.
• Slow Cooker Turkey Chili – A leaner, flavorful alternative.
• Crockpot Vegetarian Chili – Packed with vibrant veggies for a meat-free option.
• Chili Mac and Cheese – The ultimate comfort food fusion.
• Crockpot White Chicken Chili – A creamy, hearty chili with a lighter profile.
• Southwest Chicken Chili – Infused with bold Southwestern flavors.

Don’t miss out on all of our ground beef crockpot recipes, copy cat recipes, dessert recipes, and our entire collection of Crock Pot Recipes!

Pair this chili with one of these great side dishes for chili for a complete meal.

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Recipe originally shared on January 3, 2017. Updated October 2020.