Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms both the heart and the belly, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne. This hearty dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something comforting and fulfilling without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich flavors of tender beef, beans, and spices come together beautifully in the slow cooker, making it an easy favorite among friends and family.

What makes this chili extra special is how it brings everyone together. Whether it’s game day or a chilly evening at home, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a little chopping and sautéing, you can set this dish to cook while you go about your day.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is packed with flavor yet mild enough to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores wonderfully in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy leftovers anytime!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and tender beef creates a rich taste that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Each element plays a vital role in creating that delicious chili flavor we all crave. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili

• 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 ounce 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 Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still delivers great flavor.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and crunch.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute beef with lentils or mushrooms for delicious plant-based chili.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add in your chuck roast pieces along with the diced onion. Sauté until the meat is browned and cooked through, and the onion becomes tender—this step enhances the flavors beautifully.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once your meat and onions are ready, toss in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. This helps release that wonderful fragrance that signals deliciousness ahead.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Drain off any excess fat from your mixture, then return it to the dutch oven. Now it’s time to add all those wonderful canned ingredients: light red kidney beans, dark red kidney beans, tomato sauce, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely combined.

Step 4: Transfer to Crock Pot

Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer before carefully transferring it to your slow cooker. This initial simmer lets all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat for about 4-6 hours. If you’re not quite ready when it’s done cooking, you can reduce the temperature to warm until you’re ready to serve—it’ll stay nice and cozy!

Step 6: Serve Up

When it’s time to eat, ladle your hearty chili into bowls and let everyone customize their own with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy every last spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Creating a delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is all about those little details that elevate the dish to new heights!

• Choose quality beef: Using a well-marbled chuck roast will ensure your chili is rich and flavorful, as the fat renders down during cooking, making the meat tender and juicy.

• Sauté before slow cooking: Browning the beef and onions before adding them to the slow cooker adds depth to the flavor. This simple step enhances the overall taste of your chili.

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less chili powder and cumin, then add more gradually after tasting. This way, you can customize it to your family’s preference without overwhelming their palates.

• Let it rest: Allowing your chili to sit for 30 minutes after cooking brings all the flavors together even more. If you can, make it a day ahead—chili tastes even better the next day!

• Experiment with beans: While kidney beans are traditional, feel free to mix in black or pinto beans for a different texture and flavor profile. Variety keeps things interesting!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can be just as fun as making it! With some thoughtful presentation and complementary dishes, you can turn this hearty meal into a feast.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creaminess that perfectly balances the spiciness of the chili.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro gives a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens up each bite.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop adds richness and coolness, making each spoonful delightful.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft and slightly sweet, cornbread is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with chili. Its texture complements the heartiness of the dish.

• Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice and spices makes for a fresh contrast. It’s perfect for dipping or spooning on top of your chili.

• Rice: Serving your chili over steamed rice creates a comforting base. The rice absorbs all those delicious juices from the chili, enhancing every bite.

• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili or simply enjoying on their own as a snack alongside. They add an enjoyable crunch that balances out the softness of the dish.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re set to impress at your next gathering or cozy family dinner! Enjoy every savory bite of your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is an excellent choice for meal prep! It not only tastes even better the next day, but it also saves you time when you’re busy during the week. Here’s how to store and manage leftovers effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Divide the chili into portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• Remove excess air from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish; cover loosely and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries I often hear.

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

Absolutely! Ground beef can work well in this recipe. Just brown it with the onions and garlic before adding it to the slow cooker. Adjust cooking times as needed since ground beef cooks faster than chunks of meat.

How spicy is this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The chili powder used here offers a nice flavor without being overwhelming. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. You can also top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flavor!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the beef chuck roast with a mix of your favorite vegetables (like bell peppers and zucchini) or meat alternatives such as lentils or beans. Adjust seasonings for taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne! It’s one of those comforting meals that brings warmth on chilly evenings and is perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors that make it your own. Happy cooking!