Hearty Crockpot Chili with Beef and Sausage

This hearty crockpot chili is the definition of comfort food. With a rich base of tomatoes and bone broth, it’s packed with ground beef, sausage, chili beans, and colorful bell peppers. A generous blend of spices gives this chili depth and warmth, while the long, slow simmer pulls all the flavors together beautifully. It’s naturally gluten-free and makes a big batch—perfect for meal prep or a cozy gathering.

***All of my recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free, blood sugar-friendly, and gut-supportive. We are all different so you may need to make adjustments based on your body’s unique needs.***

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef chuck
• 1 lb bulk Italian sausage
• 2–3 (15 oz) cans chili beans, drained
• 1 (15 oz) can chili beans in mild or spicy sauce
• 2 (28 oz) cans diced tomatoes with juice
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped (or 1 tsp onion powder)
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 green chile peppers, chopped (or 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles)
• 1 cup beef bone broth
• ¼ cup chili powder (or more to taste)
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp gluten-free Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp hot pepper sauce (like Tabasco)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Dash cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp sea salt (or more to taste)
• 1 tsp ground black pepper (or more to taste)

Instructions:

Stovetop Instructions:

1. In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and sausage, crumbling and stirring until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Add in all remaining ingredients: drained beans, canned chili beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped veggies, broth, and seasonings. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and simmer on low for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, or avocado if desired.

Crockpot Instructions:

1. Brown ground beef and sausage in a skillet, then drain and transfer to the crockpot.
2. Add all remaining ingredients. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours.
4. Stir, taste, and adjust seasonings before serving.

Recipe Notes:

1. Meal Prep Friendly: This chili freezes well for up to 3 months and tastes even better the next day.
2. Make It Spicier: Add more chipotle powder, cayenne, or hot sauce to your liking.
3. Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and double the beans for a plant-forward version.

---

👋 New to the blog?

This article is part of a bigger picture. Head over to the Start Here article to learn how the blog is organized and where to begin your healing journey. And check out this article to learn more about my approach to food & recipes.