Crockpot Root Beer Chili

This crockpot root beer chili brings a surprising twist to a classic favorite by adding a subtle sweetness and depth through a unique secret ingredient. It’s a slow cooked comfort dish that fills your kitchen with warm aromas and delivers a rich, hearty flavor that’s anything but ordinary. Perfect for cozy evenings or feeding a crowd without a lot of fuss.

I first made this during a cold, rainy weekend and was amazed by how the root beer blended seamlessly into the chili. Now it’s a dish my family asks for whenever they want something special yet comforting.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: adds a rich and meaty base browning it first reduces grease
• Peppers and onions: bring fresh flavor and texture frozen can be used for a shortcut
• Garlic: provides a savory backbone essential to deepening the chili’s complexity
• Three kinds of beans: add heartiness and textural variety rinse the kidney and black beans to control salt and starch while keeping the chili bean liquid for flavor
• Mexi corn: adds sweetness and vibrant pops of color canned corn works well too
• Diced tomatoes with green chilis: bring acidity and a mild heat that brighten the dish
• Tomato sauce and tomato paste: thicken the chili and give it that classic tomato forward richness
• Chili seasoning packet: simplifies spice blends but homemade versions work if you prefer
• Brown sugar: balances acidity and spice with a gentle sweetness that complements the root beer
• Root beer: is the magic ingredient lending subtle spiciness and richness without tasting like soda
• Toppings: such as scallions, shredded cheese, and sour cream complete the experience and add cool creaminess and sharpness

Instructions

Sear the Ground Beef:

Brown the lean ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain the excess fat. This step is critical to removing grease and developing a rich meaty flavor that forms the foundation of the chili.

Add Vegetables and Beans to Slow Cooker:

Into your slow cooker, add the browned beef, chopped peppers, onions, garlic cloves, rinsed kidney and black beans, undrained chili beans, and corn. This combination builds layers of texture and flavor.

Mix the Sauce:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili seasoning packet, brown sugar, and root beer until completely smooth. This creates a luscious sauce that melds sweet and spicy notes.

Combine and Stir:

Pour the sauce mixture over the contents in the slow cooker and stir gently to combine everything evenly. This ensures every bite has a bit of each ingredient.

Slow Cook:

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for six hours or on high for four hours. The chili will thicken, flavors intensify, and all the ingredients will meld beautifully into a rich, cozy dish.

Serve and Garnish:

Once done, ladle the chili into bowls. Add your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, scallions, or sour cream. For extra fun, try jalapeños or avocado slices.

My favorite ingredient has to be the root beer because it quietly transforms the chili. One memorable night my family was shocked to learn what the secret ingredient was and now it’s a fun surprise that gets everyone curious and coming back for more.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick. This chili also freezes beautifully for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly.

Ingredient substitutions

If you can’t find root beer or prefer something different try cola or ginger ale for a similar sweet depth though the flavor will vary slightly. Swap kidney beans with pinto or cannellini beans if that’s what you have on hand. Use turkey or plant based ground meat to lighten the dish while maintaining texture.

Serving suggestions

Serve the chili over cooked rice, baked potatoes, or with crusty bread for soaking up every last bit. Set up a toppings bar with cheese, sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, and tortilla chips for fun interactive meals. It’s a great dish for game day or casual family dinners.

This crockpot root beer chili is a comforting, slightly sweet twist on classic chili perfect for chilly nights. It often tastes even better the next day making it ideal for leftovers.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What does root beer add to the chili?

Root beer adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, balancing the acidity and heat without making it taste like soda.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables for this chili?

Yes, frozen peppers and onions work well and save prep time while still delivering great flavor.

→ How should the beef be prepared before slow cooking?

Brown and drain the ground beef to keep the chili hearty but not greasy before adding it to the slow cooker.

→ What are some good toppings for this chili?

Classic toppings include scallions, shredded cheese, and sour cream; jalapeños, tortilla chips, or avocado offer tasty alternatives.

→ How can I make the chili spicier or milder?

Add jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce for heat, or reduce chili seasoning and spicy additions for a milder taste.