Simple Crockpot Sweet Cola Beef Chili for Easy Weeknight Dinners Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For those who enjoy a bit of extra texture, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers during the layering phase. These vegetables will soften beautifully in the slow cooker and add another layer of flavor. Just ensure they are chopped into uniform pieces to promote even cooking throughout the six-hour duration.

If you want to enhance the presentation of the final bowl, serve with a variety of toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh chopped cilantro. These additions not only add a pop of color but also contrast nicely with the deep, savory, and sweet profile of the chili.

Variations

• Spicy Cola Chili: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes during the layering phase to introduce a spicy kick that contrasts with the sweetness of the cola.
• Vegetable-Packed Chili: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn during the cooking process to increase the texture and nutritional variety of the dish without compromising the base flavors.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until steaming hot throughout.

Allow the chili to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring it to an airtight container. Once cooled, place it immediately in the refrigerator.

The flavors often improve the next day as the spices have more time to penetrate the meat and beans, making it an excellent candidate for leftovers.

This recipe is perfect for making ahead as it stores and reheats exceptionally well. Prepare the entire dish as directed, allow it to cool, and store it in the refrigerator.

When you are ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it is steaming hot throughout, ensuring it reaches a safe temperature.

Serving ideas

Serve the chili piping hot in deep bowls to retain the warmth. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or even over a baked potato for a heartier meal.

The sweetness of the cola makes it a hit with both children and adults, and it is a reliable choice for casual gatherings where you want a comforting dish.

Encourage guests to customize their bowls with their favorite toppings. Providing a spread of options allows everyone to balance the sweetness of the chili with their preferred level of creaminess or acidity.

The versatility of this dish makes it a staple for any occasion where you need a reliable and crowd-pleasing main course.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Simple Crockpot Sweet Cola Beef Chili for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Prep 10 minCook 6 hRest 5 minTotal 6 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lb ground beef, browned
• 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 packet chili seasoning
• 1 cup cola

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat thoroughly to ensure the final chili is not greasy.
2. Place the browned beef into the slow cooker. Add the kidney beans, sprinkle the chili seasoning evenly over the mixture, and pour the cola over the top.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir the mixture well before serving hot in bowls.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

450

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

18 g

Fiber

8 g

Sugar

12 g

Sodium

950 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.