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As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, many of us find solace in the warm embrace of comfort food. There’s something inherently soothing about a hearty meal that fills the belly and warms the soul, especially during cozy family gatherings or when you're simply winding down after a long day. Among the pantheon of comfort food classics, chili holds a special place. Its rich, robust flavors, combined with a variety of textures, make it a beloved dish across countless households.

Hatch Chili & Beef Crockpot Chili

Warm up with the ultimate comfort food: Smoky Hatch Chili & Beef Crockpot Chili. This delicious recipe combines tender ground beef, smoky Hatch green chilies, and a variety of spices to create a hearty meal perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Simply toss the ingredients in your crockpot and let it simmer, allowing the rich flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy a nutritious and satisfying dish that will become a cherished staple in your kitchen. Perfect for leftovers too!

Ingredients
  

2 lbs ground beef (preferably lean for a healthier option)

4 cups fresh hatch green chilies, roasted, peeled, and chopped (or canned hatch chilies if fresh are not available)

1 large yellow onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted for added depth)

2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup beef broth (low sodium recommended)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon olive oil

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is well browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir frequently, and drain any excess fat if necessary for a leaner chili.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet with the remaining beef juices, add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté for approximately 5 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

      Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot: Transfer the browned beef, sautéed onions, and garlic into the crockpot. Then, add in the chopped hatch green chilies, canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

        Incorporate the Broth and Sauce: Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the layered ingredients in the crockpot. Use a gentle stirring motion to combine everything thoroughly.

          Cooking Time: Cover the crockpot with its lid securely and set the temperature to low. Cook for approximately 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. If possible, stir occasionally to ensure even flavor distribution.

            Thicken the Chili (If Desired): For a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow steam to escape and some liquid to evaporate.

              Taste and Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

                Enjoy with Sides: This hearty chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crunchy tortilla chips for a comforting meal!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 8 hrs 15 mins | 6-8 servings