In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and ground beef. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up, until the beef is no longer pink. Drain the excess fat from the pan and add the meat to your slow cooker.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, 1 pound ground beef, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Stir in the garlic, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, black beans and sweet potatoes. Stir well. Place the lid on the slow cooker and set to low.
2 cloves garlic, 8 ounces tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 1 can black beans, 4 cups sweet potato, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Cook for at least 6 hours. The chili will be thick and hearty.
Serve topped with diced avocado, shredded cheese, sour cream and/or roasted corn, if desired.