Easy Smoked Chili Recipe – Grill, Smoker, or Crock Pot

Easy Smoked Chili Recipe – Grill, Smoker, or Crock Pot

When the weather cools down or you're looking to serve a crowd, there’s nothing quite like a hearty chili. This easy smoked chili recipe is designed to give you bold, smoky flavors without complicated steps. Whether you prefer to fire up your grill or smoker or stay inside with a stove or crock pot, this recipe has you covered. Let’s get started!


Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork or sausage
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp your favorite BBQ rub (e.g., All Ration or Memphis-style rub)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

 


Instructions:

Grill or Smoker Method:

  1. Prepare Your Grill/Smoker: Set up your grill or smoker for indirect cooking at 225°F. Add a chunk of hickory, mesquite, or applewood for smoky flavor.
  2. Cook the Meat: Place a cast iron skillet or aluminum pan on the grill. Brown the ground beef and pork/sausage. Remove excess grease.
  3. Add Vegetables: Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pan. Sauté until softened.
  4. Mix Ingredients: Stir in beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and seasonings. Mix well.
  5. Simmer: Cover the skillet with foil and let the chili simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more broth if needed.
  6. Serve: Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.

Crock Pot or Stove Method:

  1. Cook the Meat: Brown the ground beef and pork/sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
  2. Transfer to Crock Pot or Pot: Add the cooked meat to your crock pot or a large stockpot.
  3. Add Ingredients: Stir in beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, onion, bell pepper, garlic, and seasonings. Mix well.
  4. Cook:
    • Crock Pot: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
    • Stove: Simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  5. Serve: Garnish as desired.

Grilling Tips for Beginners:

  • If using a smoker, keep the lid closed as much as possible to retain smoke.
  • For grills without a smoker box, wrap wood chips in foil, poke holes, and place over the heat source.

 


Extra Flavor and Pairing Ideas:

  • Add Heat: Toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
  • Pairings: Serve with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a dollop of guacamole.
  • Smoke the Ingredients: For extra smoky flavor, briefly smoke the beans and tomatoes before adding them to the chili.

FAQ:

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes, swap the meat for extra beans, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

Q: What if I don’t have a smoker?
A: Use smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke to replicate the flavor.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.


Join The Pit Club!

Try this recipe and share your smoky chili creation with us on Instagram @BurnPitBBQGuys! Don’t forget to tag us for a chance to be featured!

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