If there’s one cozy meal I keep coming back to when temperatures drop or friends come over to watch the game, it’s Dr Pepper Chili. This hearty slow-cooked classic gets a delicious twist from the sweet, slightly spicy kick of Dr Pepper, infusing rich smoky beef, creamy beans, and bold chipotle with irresistible flavor in every spoonful. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or gearing up for easy weeknight dinners, Dr Pepper Chili is sure to deliver comfort and excitement all in one bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dr Pepper Chili is all about big flavor with surprisingly simple, pantry-friendly foods. Each ingredient adds a special something—from color and texture to that crave-worthy depth of taste. Here’s the lineup that makes every bite stand out:
- Lean ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base and stays tender and juicy through slow cooking.
- Garlic cloves: A punch of aromatic flavor that adds depth and brightness to the mix.
- Chopped bell peppers and onion (fresh or frozen): Give pops of color, sweetness, and a subtle crunch to every spoonful.
- Red kidney beans: A classic chili staple that thickens the stew and brings a creamy, satisfying bite.
- Black beans: Add earthiness and contrast beautifully with the other beans and beef.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel): These lift the flavor with tangy notes and gentle heat all at once.
- Tomato sauce: Creates a velvety, rich base that melds all the ingredients together.
- Chili seasoning packet or homemade blend: Packs in all the classic chili spices (cumin, chili powder, paprika) for a bold flavor punch.
- Adobo sauce from canned chipotles: Provides a smokiness and just enough heat to keep things lively.
- Light brown sugar: Balances out the spice and enhances the Dr Pepper’s caramel notes.
- Dr Pepper (12-ounce can): The star ingredient that gives this chili its signature sweet-savory edge.
How to Make Dr Pepper Chili
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Garlic
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. As it cooks, break it into crumbles with your spoon or spatula—this helps lock in tenderness and ensure every bite is seasoned. Once the beef is no longer pink, add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute, just until fragrant. This step deepens the flavor base, making your Dr Pepper Chili extra irresistible. Drain any excess grease for a lighter, less oily texture.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Once your beef and garlic are ready, transfer the mixture right into your slow cooker. Add the chopped bell peppers and onions (use frozen if you’re short on time!), both types of beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, chili seasoning, adobo sauce, brown sugar, and—of course—the can of Dr Pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed. This is where the chili magic starts, as all those delicious flavors begin to blend.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Give it a quick stir about halfway through to make sure every ingredient is getting cozy in that flavorful sauce. As the Dr Pepper Chili simmers, the aroma will fill your kitchen and the sauce will thicken into chili bliss. Stir once more before serving—then get ready for the best part!
How to Serve Dr Pepper Chili
Garnishes
The right toppings make Dr Pepper Chili absolutely sing. Don’t be shy with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of tangy sour cream, or bright slices of fresh jalapeño. Finely diced red onions and crushed tortilla chips add refreshing crunch, and a sprinkle of cilantro or green onion never hurts either. The goal: build your own bowl of comfort and make every bite your own!
Side Dishes
To round out your Dr Pepper Chili experience, pair your steaming bowl with buttery cornbread, crusty sourdough, or fluffy baked potatoes. If you like, add a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for something fresh on the side. This chili is hearty enough to stand alone, but a classic carb is always the ideal companion for sopping up every last drop of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not have a little fun? Serve Dr Pepper Chili inside bread bowls for an edible vessel, or scoop it over crispy tortilla chips for quick chili nachos. For a crowd, set out a chili bar with all the toppings and let everyone customize their own creations. Leftovers are famously delicious spooned over hot dogs for game day chili dogs or stuffed into baked sweet potatoes for a hearty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chili only gets better with time! After it cools, transfer any Dr Pepper Chili leftovers into airtight containers and tuck them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and just as flavorful for up to three days, making weekday lunches and quick dinners a breeze.
Freezing
Planning ahead? Dr Pepper Chili freezes beautifully. Once it’s completely cool, ladle portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zipper bags (laying them flat saves space). Label and freeze for up to three months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Gently reheat Dr Pepper Chili on the stovetop over medium-low, stirring occasionally until piping hot and bubbling. If you’re in a hurry, microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring partway through to heat evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if the chili thickened too much while storing.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Both ground turkey and chicken are great lean options for Dr Pepper Chili. Just know that beef brings a bit more richness, but the chipotle, beans, and Dr Pepper flavors will still shine through beautifully.
Is this chili spicy?
Dr Pepper Chili lands in the mild to medium range, thanks to the smoky chipotle and green chilies. For extra heat, add more adobo sauce or a diced jalapeño. To make it mild, simply reduce or skip the adobo and opt for plain diced tomatoes.
Do I need to use homemade chili seasoning?
Not at all! Store-bought chili seasoning packets work perfectly and save time on busy days. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your own blend for a custom flavor. Either way, it’ll taste fantastic.
Can I make Dr Pepper Chili without a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the beef and garlic, add all remaining ingredients to a large Dutch oven or soup pot. Simmer gently on the stovetop for about 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
Is it okay to leave out the beans?
Of course—you can personalize your Dr Pepper Chili however you like. Leave out the beans for a Texas-style chili, or add extra peppers, corn, or even chunks of sweet potato for an extra twist.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring Dr Pepper Chili to your table! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its smoky, sweet, and savory kick, plus the joy of knowing dinner is simmering away while you relax. Give it a try and don’t forget to share your favorite toppings—I’d love to hear how you make this chili your own!
