Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that warms the soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is one of my absolute favorites. It’s packed with tender beef, flavorful beans, and just the right amount of spice. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering on a chilly evening, this chili is sure to please everyone around the table. Plus, it fills your home with an irresistible aroma that makes waiting for dinner feel like a treat!

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You can toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax or catch up with loved ones. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become your go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just a few simple steps and you’re set! The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Packed with flavors that kids and adults alike will enjoy—perfect for picky eaters!
• Perfect for Meal Prepping: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of spices and tender beef creates a taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is easy! They are wholesome items that you likely already have in your pantry or can find at any grocery store. Let’s get started on making this delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne!

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 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground beef or turkey instead of chuck roast for a different texture.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to kick up the flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.

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 the diced onion. Searing the meat creates a beautiful brown crust that enhances its flavor. Cook until the meat is cooked through and the onion is tender.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Garlic adds an aromatic quality that brightens up the dish beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Drain off any excess fat from your mixture before returning it to the dutch oven. Now it’s time to add those delicious beans, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined—it’s looking good already!

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Bring your mixture to a simmer before carefully transferring it to your slow cooker. This step ensures all those wonderful flavors meld together as they cook low and slow.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. This long cooking time allows all those flavors to deepen and develop beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Up

When ready to serve, transfer your chili into bowls and offer optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro. Enjoy every warm spoonful of this comforting dish!

Now you’re ready to savor every bite of this delightful Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Making the perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your chili turns out amazing every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic can make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to their dried counterparts. They add a vibrant taste that elevates your chili.

• Let it simmer long enough: The longer you allow your chili to cook, the more the flavors meld together. Cooking on low for 4-6 hours allows the spices to infuse and the meat to become tender.

• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less chili powder and cumin. You can always add more later, but it’s hard to tone down heat once it’s in!

• Experiment with beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans based on your preference or what you have on hand. Black beans or pinto beans can be excellent substitutes for added variety.

• Add a splash of lime juice before serving: This brightens the dish and adds a refreshing zing that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this hearty dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, melts wonderfully over warm chili and adds creaminess.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the spicy chili and enhances its richness.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a fresh herbal note that balances out the dish’s bold flavors.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing is slightly sweet and fluffy, perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili.
• Rice: A side of fluffy white or brown rice helps mellow out the spiciness while adding extra substance to your meal.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a delightful textural contrast and are great for dipping.
• Green salad: A light green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can cleanse the palate and provide a refreshing balance to the meal.

These serving suggestions will not only make your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne look appetizing but also create a well-rounded dining experience. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes amazing but also makes life easier for busy weeknights. You can prepare it in advance, store it properly, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool down to room temperature.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label containers with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating

• To reheat on the stovetop, pour the chili into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious recipe!

Can I make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne without beans?

Absolutely! You can omit the beans if you prefer a meatier chili or substitute them with an extra cup of vegetables for added nutrients.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

When using a slow cooker, allow it to cook on low for about 4-6 hours. This ensures that all flavors meld beautifully while keeping the beef tender.

What can I use instead of beef broth?

If you’re looking for alternatives, vegetable broth or homemade stock can work just as well and will impart their unique flavors into your chili.

Can I use ground beef instead of chuck roast?

Yes! Ground beef can be used instead of chuck roast. Just be sure to brown it first in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker for optimal flavor.

What toppings go well with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, cilantro, or even crushed tortilla chips for an added crunch!

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty dish that warms both body and soul. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—happy cooking!