Slow Cooker Chili with Bacon

Cook the ground beef in a large pot or pan until no longer pink, season to taste with salt and pepper. Drain meat if necessary. When cooked through add the ground beef to a sprayed or lined 7-8 quart slow cooker.
Wipe out the pan the ground beef was cooked in and add in the bacon. Continue cooking the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon to drain on paper towels. Add the bacon to the slow cooker when drained.
Next, add the onion and pepper to the pan. Cook the onion and peppers in the bacon grease, 4-5 minutes until softened. Add a splash of water or stock and scrape the brown bits on the pan. Add the garlic and cook another 30 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat and add the veggies to the slow cooker.
Pour in the rest of the ingredients to the slow cooker, except for the corn and the cheese. Cook on low 6-7 hours or high 3-4 hours. After cooking, add in the corn, if using.
If you'd like your chili to resemble a football, Cut strips of cheese and add the slices on top for laces and shredded cheese around the sides. Serve with your favorite chili accompaniments.