Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms both the heart and the belly, you’ve landed in just the right spot! This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is not just another meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. With tender chunks of beef, hearty beans, and a blend of spices that dance together like they were made for each other, this chili recipe is perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. It’s one of those go-to recipes that everyone will love, making it a favorite around my dinner table.

There’s something magical about letting your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day. When you come home, the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting you to dig in. Trust me; this dish will warm you up on chilly evenings and make your house feel like a home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves a hearty bowl of chili—perfect for picky eaters and adventurous palates alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Flavorful and Hearty: Rich flavors combine beautifully with tender beef and beans, creating a satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this recipe so delightful! You won’t find any complicated items here—just good food that brings comfort. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne:

• 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
• 3 pounds Beef chuck roast (sliced thin and cut into pieces)
• 1 Small onion (diced (about 1 cup))
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 15 ounces Canned light red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounces Canned dark red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 8 ounces Canned tomato sauce
• 15 ounces Canned fire roasted diced tomatoes
• 2 cups Beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Chili powder
• 1 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to kick things up a notch.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the meat for a hearty vegetarian version.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Meat

In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the chuck roast pieces along with diced onion. Searing the meat creates flavor by forming a lovely crust. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion becomes tender—it should take about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once your meat mixture is ready, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Garlic adds wonderful depth to your chili, making every bite flavorful.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Drain off any excess fat from your pot, then return everything back to the Dutch oven. Add in all your beans, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings. Mix well until everything is combined—this step ensures that all those lovely flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer before carefully transferring it to your slow cooker. Cooking low and slow allows all those wonderful flavors to deepen over time!

Step 5: Slow Cook Away!

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 4–6 hours. After cooking time is up, reduce the temperature to warm until you’re ready to serve. This gives flavors even more time to develop while keeping everything nice and hot!

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

When it’s time to eat, ladle your chili into bowls and top with options like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro if desired. These little extras add even more personality to this already fantastic dish.

Now grab some friends or family around the table because this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is begging to be shared! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Making a fantastic Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is all about the little tweaks that can elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure that your chili is a hit every time!

• Sear the meat first: Searing the beef chuck roast before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor and adds a beautiful depth to your chili. This caramelization brings out the natural sugars in the meat, making each bite more delicious.

• Adjust spices to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Start with the recommended amounts of spices, but feel free to adjust according to your preference. A little extra chili powder or cumin can turn up the flavor dial on your chili.

• Let it rest: If you can resist, let your chili sit for about 30 minutes after cooking before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.

• Use high-quality broth: The quality of your beef broth can make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for a low-sodium option so you have better control over the saltiness of your final dish.

• Experiment with beans: While this recipe calls for kidney beans, don’t hesitate to mix in other varieties like black beans or pinto beans! Each type contributes unique flavors and textures that can enhance your chili experience.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

When it comes time to serve your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, presentation can elevate this comforting dish from hearty to extraordinary. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy it!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and vibrant color contrast, enhancing both appearance and taste.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado complements the spicy chili perfectly and adds a cool touch, balancing out flavors.
• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro not only looks appealing but also introduces an aromatic herbaceous note that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing provides a sweet and buttery counterpart to the spicy chili. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop!
• Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as an excellent base for chili, making each serving hearty while balancing flavors.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a delightful texture contrast and are perfect for scooping up that delicious chili!
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens and tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chili.

Now you’re all set to create and enjoy an unforgettable bowl of Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it’s also easy to store and reheat, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For stovetop: Place the desired portion in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Add a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen up the chili while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use ground beef instead of chuck roast in Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Yes! While chuck roast adds tenderness and depth of flavor, you can easily substitute ground beef. Just brown it beforehand and follow the same instructions.

How long can I keep Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne in the fridge?

You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes even better as it sits!

Can I make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne spicy?

Absolutely! You can add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to kick up the heat level according to your preference.

Is there a vegetarian version of Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Yes! You can replace beef with a mix of beans, lentils, or even crumbled tempeh for a hearty vegetarian chili that still packs a punch!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne warms your heart and fills your home with mouthwatering aromas! It’s a comforting dish that brings family and friends together—perfect for sharing during cozy evenings. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to try out your own variations. Happy cooking!