5 Best Slow Cooker Chili with Ground Beef and Sausage in 2026
You’ll want slow cookers like the Elite Gourmet 8.5Qt or the Crock-Pot 7-Quart that offer large capacities and precise controls, perfect for making the best slow cooker chili with ground beef and sausage. These models handle hearty ingredients well, ensuring your chili cooks evenly and develops deep flavors.
Pair these slow cookers with seasoning mixes like the Crock-Pot Hearty Beef Stew blend and Campbell’s Beefy Mushroom Soup for rich, savory depth. These additions enhance the taste, making your chili truly stand out.
Smaller units like the Nostalgia 4-Quart model work well for casual gatherings or smaller portions. Keep portability, lid security, and easy cleanup in mind when choosing your slow cooker.
There’s plenty more to help you choose the perfect setup for slow cooker chili with ground beef and sausage. Selecting the right combination will elevate your cooking experience and results.
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Crock-Pot Hearty Beef Stew Seasoning Mix, 1.5 Ounce
- Ingredients: 'MODIFIED CORN STARCH, HYDROLYZED CORN PROTEIN AND WHEAT GLUTEN, SALT, MALTODEXTRIN, SUGAR, GARLIC POWDER...
- Item Package Length: 1.524cm
- Item Package Width: 11.049cm
If you want to create a rich and hearty beef stew without spending extra time measuring spices, the Crock-Pot Hearty Beef Stew Seasoning Mix offers a practical solution. This 1.5-ounce packet combines all the necessary spices, garlic, onion powder, paprika, and rendered beef fat to simplify meal prep. It allows you to skip the hassle of gathering multiple ingredients while still achieving deep, savory flavors.
Designed specifically for slow cooker use, this seasoning mix enhances the natural taste of beef and vegetables as they cook slowly throughout the day. Its convenience means you can just add the mix to your ingredients and let the Crock-Pot do the work, freeing you from constant attention or extra clean-up. This makes it ideal for busy households or anyone looking to save time in the kitchen.
Because the mix includes rendered beef fat, it delivers a more authentic and satisfying flavor profile that mimics traditional homemade stews. However, it does contain wheat gluten, so it is not suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Also, the seasoning is formulated mainly for slow cooker recipes, which limits its use in other cooking methods.
The small 1.5-ounce size is perfect for single pots but may require multiple packets for larger meals. Overall, this seasoning mix balances convenience with quality, making slow cooker beef stew preparation straightforward and delicious.
Best for: Busy individuals or families seeking an easy, flavorful way to prepare hearty beef stew with minimal prep and clean-up.
What We Like:
- Pre-measured seasoning mix reduces prep time and mess
- Blended for slow cooker use to develop rich, consistent flavors
- Includes rendered beef fat for authentic savory taste
- Simplifies meal preparation with all-in-one seasoning packet
Specification:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Crock-Pot |
| Weight | 1.5 ounces (42.5 g) |
| Material | Spice blend with rendered beef fat |
| Color Options | N/A |
Elite Gourmet MST-900D 8.5Qt Programmable Slow Cooker
- FEED THE MASSES with this 8.5qt slow cooker. Perfectly sized for a large turkey breast or beef roast, you can be assured...
- JUMBO OVAL slow cooker makes cooking fork-tender roasts and poultry a breeze. Cool-touch handles and interface protect...
- PROGRAMMABLE UP TO 20 HOURS with versatile Low / High / Keep Warm settings, gives you ultimate control of meal...
The Elite Gourmet MST-900D 8.5Qt Programmable Slow Cooker offers a practical solution for preparing large meals without hassle. Its spacious 8.5-quart capacity easily accommodates big cuts of meat and large batches, making it ideal for family gatherings or entertaining guests. The programmable timer and adjustable temperature settings give you precise control, ensuring meals cook perfectly every time.
Designed with convenience in mind, this slow cooker features a touch control panel that is simple to use and cool-touch handles for added safety. The tempered glass lid locks in moisture, allowing you to monitor cooking progress without lifting the lid and losing heat. This helps maintain flavors and textures in your dishes.
Maintenance is straightforward thanks to dishwasher-safe components and a stainless steel exterior that wipes clean quickly. Although it is relatively large and requires ample counter or storage space, its sturdy design and easy upkeep make it a reliable kitchen companion.
With a power consumption of 200 watts, it suits standard household outlets but is not intended for commercial or high-voltage environments. Overall, this programmable slow cooker combines functionality, thoughtful design, and ease of use to simplify cooking large meals.
Best for: Families and entertainers who need a large-capacity, programmable slow cooker for preparing big meals with ease and precision.
What We Like:
- Generous 8.5-quart capacity perfect for large meals.
- Programmable 20-hour timer with adjustable temperature control.
- Easy-to-clean parts and durable stainless steel exterior.
- Touch control panel with cool-touch handles for safety.
- Tempered glass lid to lock in moisture and monitor cooking.
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Elite Gourmet |
| Capacity | 8.5 quarts |
| Dimensions | Not specified |
| Weight | Not specified |
| Material | Stainless steel exterior, stoneware insert |
| Color Options | Stainless steel finish |
Nostalgia Game Day 4-Quart Kickin’ Keg Slow Cooker
- BRING EVERYONE TOGETHER: Serve up crowd-pleasing apps and snacks for everyone to enjoy during the game or any other...
- GENEROUS 4-QT CAPACITY: Hold up to 4 quarts of your favorite brews and stews in the ceramic heating pot, equipped with a...
- TEMPERATURE CONTROL DIAL: Control the temperature of your food with the 4-position temperature control dial allowing...
The Nostalgia Game Day 4-Quart Kickin’ Keg Slow Cooker brings both style and function to your game day gatherings. Its unique design resembles a classic keg, adding a fun and nostalgic touch to your serving table. This slow cooker handles crowd-pleasing dishes like chili, stews, and wings, making it easier to feed your guests without fuss.
With a 4-quart capacity, it comfortably serves small to medium groups. The simple 4-position dial lets you switch between Off, High, Low, and Warm settings, so you can keep your food at the perfect temperature throughout the event. Built-in handles and wrapped cord storage make it easy to carry and store, enhancing portability.
Maintenance requires manual cleaning since the unit is not dishwasher safe. However, its compact size ensures it won’t take up much space in your kitchen. The sturdy ceramic and stainless steel construction provide durability and a stylish look that stands out compared to standard slow cookers.
This slow cooker solves the common problem of serving hot, flavorful dishes in a compact, portable design while adding a unique visual element to your event. Its size and weight may not suit very large crowds or frequent transport, but it fits well for casual gatherings and game day fun.
Best for: Those who often host game day parties or social events and want a functional, eye-catching slow cooker for serving appetizers and snacks.
What We Like:
- Classic keg-inspired ceramic and stainless steel design
- Easy heat control with 4-position dial
- Portable with built-in handles and cord storage
- Compact size fits small to medium gatherings
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Nostalgia |
| Capacity | 4 quarts (3.8 liters) |
| Weight | 8.6 pounds (3.9 kg) |
| Material | Ceramic, stainless steel |
| Dimensions | Not specified |
| Color Options | Not specified |
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker with Sous Vide
- Sous Vide Function: Food cooks in a temperature controlled water bath, in air-tight bags, for unrivaled results. The...
- Removable Temperature Probe: Ensures food reaches a precise internal temperature, so there's no over-cooking...
- Cook & Carry Locking Lid: Travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills, for no mess...
The Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker with Sous Vide is designed for home cooks who want precise control and effortless slow cooking in one appliance. Its large oval stainless steel design fits bigger meals and larger cuts of meat, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prepping. The digital display allows you to set cooking times from 5 minutes up to 30 hours, giving you flexibility for any recipe.
This cooker’s sous vide function offers a professional touch by cooking food in a temperature-controlled water bath. This ensures consistent and perfect doneness without guesswork. The removable temperature probe helps you monitor internal temperatures easily, so you can avoid overcooking or undercooking your dishes.
Maintenance is simple thanks to the removable stoneware, which is both dishwasher- and oven-safe. The locking lid prevents spills and makes it convenient to transport meals safely. While the slow cooker is heavy at over 7 kilograms, this stability can be a benefit during cooking.
One consideration is its relatively high power consumption at 7 KW, which may affect energy use. Additionally, beginners may need some time to adjust to sous vide techniques, but the precise controls make it a versatile and valuable addition to any kitchen.
Best for: home cooks seeking a versatile slow cooker that offers both traditional slow cooking and precise sous vide temperature control for large family meals.
What We Like:
- Combines slow cooking and sous vide for diverse cooking methods
- Large 7-quart oval stoneware fits bigger meals easily
- Dishwasher- and oven-safe removable stoneware simplifies cleanup
- Locking lid prevents leaks for safe transport
- Removable temperature probe ensures accurate cooking
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Crock-Pot |
| Capacity | 7 quarts (approximately 6.6 liters) |
| Design | Oval stainless steel |
| Weight | Over 7 kg (approx. 15.4 lbs) |
| Power Consumption | 7 KW |
| Stoneware | Removable, dishwasher- and oven-safe |
| Lid | Locking, leak-proof |
Campbell’s Condensed Beefy Mushroom Soup, 10.5 oz Can
- Campbell's Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup is low in cholesterol
- This delicious canned soup is crafted with beef stock, seasoned beef and tender mushrooms, perfect to enhance your...
- Use this beefy mushroom soup as a versatile ingredient in southwest rice bowls
Campbell’s Condensed Beefy Mushroom Soup offers a simple solution to enrich your meals with deep, savory flavor. Its creamy texture and hearty blend of beef stock, seasoned beef, and tender mushrooms make it an easy addition to slow cooker chili and other one-pot dishes. This soup helps you create satisfying meals quickly, cutting down on prep time without sacrificing taste.
Designed for convenience, this 10.5 oz can is ready to use straight from the pantry. Stir it directly into your recipes to add richness and complexity without extra steps. The condensed formula reduces cooking time while providing a consistent flavor base that enhances a variety of dishes.
Maintenance is straightforward—store the unopened can in a cool, dry place. Once opened, transfer any unused portion to a sealed container and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Its shelf stability makes it a reliable staple for busy households looking to simplify meal preparation.
While the soup delivers bold beef and mushroom notes, it contains condensed soup sodium levels that may not suit all diets. It also requires pairing with other ingredients to form a complete meal, so it works best as a flavorful component rather than a standalone dish.
Best for: home cooks and busy families seeking a convenient, flavorful ingredient to enhance hearty dishes like chili and one-skillet meals.
What We Like:
- Adds rich, savory depth and creamy texture with minimal effort
- Versatile for soups, sauces, and meal bases
- Convenient condensed formula saves cooking time
- Trusted Campbell’s quality ensures consistent flavor
Specification:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Campbell’s |
| Net Weight | 10.5 oz (298 g) |
| Main Ingredients | Beef stock, seasoned beef, mushrooms |
| Packaging | Metal can |
| Storage | Store unopened in cool, dry place; refrigerate after opening |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Slow Cooker Chili With Ground Beef and Sausage
When choosing slow cooker chili with ground beef and sausage, you’ll want to think about the size of your slow cooker and how much chili you need. Consider the meat combination and seasoning options to match your taste preferences.
Also, pay attention to cooking time settings and temperature controls to get the perfect texture every time.
Slow Cooker Capacity
Choosing the right slow cooker capacity plays a crucial role in making chili with ground beef and sausage turn out perfectly. The size of your slow cooker affects how much chili you can prepare at once, typically ranging from 3 to 8 quarts. If you’re cooking for a family or group, a minimum of 6 quarts is ideal to avoid overfilling and guarantee even cooking.
An 8-quart slow cooker offers extra space for adding vegetables, beans, and extra meat without crowding. Smaller models, around 3 to 4 quarts, suit single servings or small batches but may limit ingredient amounts. Consider how many servings you need and the size of your ingredients to pick a capacity that helps your chili cook evenly without spilling or uneven heating.
Meat Combination Choices
Although slow cooker chili recipes often focus on a single type of meat, blending ground beef and sausage brings out a richer, more layered flavor. You’ll get the hearty beefiness paired with the spiced, savory notes of sausage, which adds complexity to your chili. Consider the type of sausage—pork, chicken, or turkey—as each affects fat content and flavor intensity differently.
Adjust the ratio to control texture; more sausage means juicier, tender chili. You can choose fresh sausage for a traditional approach or pre-cooked to save time. Picking sausage varieties with seasonings that complement beef, like spicy or smoked options, will elevate your dish without overwhelming it.
Balancing these factors helps you craft a perfectly flavored slow cooker chili tailored to your taste.
Seasoning Mix Options
Pairing the right seasoning mix with your ground beef and sausage blend can make all the difference in your slow cooker chili. Most seasoning mixes combine chili powder, cumin, garlic, and onion powder to boost flavor, often including salt and sugar to balance savory and spicy notes.
Some mixes add dried herbs, paprika, or hydrolyzed yeast protein for extra depth. When choosing, consider the spiciness level since blends range from mild to hot, influenced by the chili peppers and spices used.
If you want convenience and consistency, pre-made seasoning mixes save you from measuring multiple spices. Ultimately, pick a seasoning that complements your meat and matches your heat preference to create a perfectly balanced chili every time.
Cooking Time Settings
When you set the cooking time on your slow cooker, you control how tender your ground beef and sausage become and how well the flavors meld together. Different slow cookers offer a range of time settings, often from a few hours up to 20 or 30 hours, giving you flexibility depending on your schedule and recipe needs.
Longer cooking times tend to deepen flavors and soften meats, but setting the right duration guarantees you avoid overcooking or undercooking. Many models include preset programs tailored for specific cooking lengths, making it easier to pick the ideal time.
Choosing the correct cooking time is especially important when your chili includes additional ingredients like beans or vegetables, as it balances textures and enhances the overall taste.
Temperature Control Features
Getting the cooking time right sets the stage, but controlling the temperature throughout the process guarantees your chili with ground beef and sausage turns out perfectly. You’ll want a slow cooker with precise temperature control features to avoid overcooking or undercooking. Look for adjustable settings like Low, High, and Keep Warm so you can customize based on your recipe.
Whether it’s digital controls or manual dials, easy-to-use options help you monitor and tweak the heat as needed. Some models even include a temperature probe or sensor that keeps the internal temperature steady for ideal food safety and texture. Accurate temperature control ensures your meat cooks thoroughly while preserving flavors and preventing spoilage, making your chili consistently delicious every time.
Ease Of Cleaning
Cleaning up after making chili with ground beef and sausage doesn’t have to be a hassle if you choose a slow cooker designed for easy maintenance. Look for models with dishwasher-safe components like stoneware and lids to simplify cleanup. Non-stick interiors prevent food from sticking, so you can wipe them down quickly without scrubbing.
Removable parts should detach easily, letting you clean each piece thoroughly. Smooth, rounded interiors are better than textured ones, as they don’t trap food residues, saving you time. Also, pick a slow cooker with minimal crevices and seams to avoid hard-to-reach spots where grime can build up.
Portability And Storage
Choosing the right slow cooker for chili means considering how easy it is to carry and store. You’ll want to check the size and weight to *guarantee* it’s manageable for potlucks or gatherings. Models with secure, locking lids are a must to prevent spills during transport.
Built-in handles or side grips make carrying much simpler, so look for those features. Also, think about storage: removable, dishwasher-safe parts speed up cleaning and keep your kitchen organized. If your space is tight or you need to move the cooker frequently, opt for a compact or portable design.
Prioritizing portability and smart storage options *assures* your slow cooker is as convenient as it is functional, making your chili-making experience smooth from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Beef and Sausage in This Chili?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef and sausage in your chili. Just remember turkey’s leaner, so add a bit of oil or extra seasoning to keep it flavorful and juicy while it cooks in the slow cooker.
How Long Should the Chili Cook on Low Versus High Settings?
You’ll think the slow cooker is a time machine—it needs about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to perfectly meld flavors.
Don’t rush it; slow and steady wins the chili race!
What Toppings Pair Best With Slow Cooker Chili?
You’ll love topping your chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro.
Don’t forget jalapeños for heat and crushed tortilla chips for crunch. These add great flavor and texture to every bite.
Can This Chili Be Frozen and Reheated Later?
You can freeze this chili and it’ll taste like a thousand feasts later!
Just cool it completely, store in airtight containers, and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
It keeps flavors rich and delicious every time.
Is It Possible to Make This Chili Spicy or Mild?
You can absolutely make the chili spicy or mild. Just adjust the amount of chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce for heat, or reduce those ingredients and add more beans or tomatoes to keep it mild and flavorful.
Conclusion
If you don’t pick one of these slow cooker chili recipes with ground beef and sausage, you might as well give up on chili forever! These options deliver flavors so rich and hearty, they’ll make your taste buds throw a party you didn’t know they needed.
With the right slow cooker and seasoning, you’re not just making chili—you’re creating a legendary feast that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. Don’t settle for less!
For the best slow cooker chili with ground beef and sausage in 2026, these recipes are your ultimate go-to. Enjoy the perfect blend of taste and convenience in every bite!
