1. Brown Beef and Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped sweet onion, and minced garlic over medium heat.
- Cook, breaking up the beef into crumbles with a spoon or spatula, for 6-8 minutes, or until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is softened.
- Drain off any excess fat from the skillet thoroughly.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the cooked beef, onion, and garlic mixture to a 5-quart slow cooker.
- Add the drained can of diced tomatoes with mild green chiles to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the rinsed and drained pinto beans and the rinsed and drained black beans.
- Add the chili powder, ground cumin, and salt.
- Finally, add the remaining undrained can of diced tomatoes with mild green chiles.
- Stir all the ingredients together well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
3. Slow Cook the Chili:
- Cover the slow cooker securely with its lid.
- Cook on the LOW setting for 6-8 hours, or until the flavors have blended beautifully and the chili is heated through.
- Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker chili, about 30 minutes before serving, you can use a potato masher to gently mash some of the beans directly in the slow cooker against the side of the pot. This releases their starch and helps thicken the chili. Stir well.
4. Assemble the Walking Nachos:
- Just before serving, prepare your chip bags and toppings.
- Carefully cut open the top or side of each individual (1-ounce) package of nacho-flavored tortilla chips to create a wider opening, forming a “bowl.” You can also gently crush the chips inside the bag slightly if desired.
- Divide the hot slow-cooked chili mixture evenly among the open chip bags, spooning it right on top of the chips.
5. Add Toppings and Serve:
- Top the chili in each bag with your desired optional toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped fresh tomatoes, and pickled jalapeno slices.
- Serve the Deluxe Walking Nachos immediately with a fork or spoon for eating right out of the bag! Enjoy the fun and flavor!