Description
This Sweet and Spicy Slow Cooker Chili combines tender meat, beans, and a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. Let your slow cooker do the work while the flavors meld beautifully.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat and drain excess fat.
- Add meat to the slow cooker along with onion, garlic, and red bell pepper.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, brown sugar, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with optional toppings like cheese, sour cream, or cilantro.
Notes
The sweet element balances the heat, making this chili perfect for those who enjoy a subtle sweetness in their spicy dishes. Can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
- Category: Soup/Stew
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: sweet and spicy chili, slow cooker chili, crockpot chili, easy chili, flavorful chili