In Tricia's words... "I get asked for this recipe all the time. Mmmm! I always use 1 lb of hot Italian sausage and 1 lb of ground beef - gives it some kick."
Ingredients:
~ 1 lb ground beef
~ 1 lb Hot Italian Sausage (can use 2 lbs ground beef if don't have sausage)
~ 1 large onion, chopped (optional)
~ 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped (I use garlic powder)
~ 1 can (28 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained
~ 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
~ 2 T chili powder
~ 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
~ 1/2 tsp salt
~ 1/2 tsp pepper
~ 1 can (15 or 16 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained OR 1 can chili beans (I use 1 can chili beans and 1/2 can kidney beans)
Directions:
Cook beef in skillet over med heat, stirring occasionally, until brown; drain. Mix beef and remaining ingredients except beans in 3 1/2 - 6 qt slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high 3-4, or until onion is tender. Stir in beans. Cover and cook on high heat 15-20 min. or until slightly thickened.
OR
Throw everything in a large pot (except beans) and simmer for 1/2 to 1 hour. Add kidney beans for last 10 minutes and enjoy! It turns out just as good.
Recipe from: My sister, Tricia