Description
A flavorful and hearty Crock Pot Dr Pepper Chili combining ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a hint of sweetness from Dr Pepper, slow-cooked to perfection for an easy and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Vegetables and Beans
- 1 cup finely diced green bell pepper
- 2 cans tri-color beans (15-ounce cans, undrained)
- 15 ounce can diced tomatoes and green chiles (drained, like Rotel)
- 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
Seasoning and Liquid
- 1.25 ounce packet chili seasoning
- 12 ounce can Dr Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the beef mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, yellow onion, and minced garlic. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is browned and the juices run clear, ensuring the beef is fully cooked and the aromatics are softened.
- Drain excess grease: Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy chili and retain the rich flavors.
- Transfer to crock pot: Move the cooked beef mixture into a 5-6 quart crock pot to prepare for slow cooking.
- Add remaining ingredients: Add the finely diced green bell pepper, tri-color beans with their liquid, drained diced tomatoes with green chiles, crushed tomatoes, chili seasoning, and the can of Dr Pepper to the crock pot.
- Mix well: Stir all the ingredients together in the crock pot until evenly combined to distribute flavors throughout.
- Slow cook the chili: Cover the crock pot and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 5-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken to desired consistency.
- Season to taste: Before serving, taste the chili and add salt if necessary, although the combination of ingredients usually provides sufficient seasoning.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier chili, consider adding additional chili powder or hot sauce during cooking.
- For a thicker chili, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
- Brown the beef thoroughly to enhance the chili’s flavor profile.
- This chili freezes well—store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Dr Pepper chili, crock pot chili, slow cooker chili, ground beef chili, easy chili recipe, comfort food
