Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is just what you need. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my kitchen for years, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food feels like a hug in a bowl. The combination of tender beef, hearty beans, and a medley of spices creates a delightful symphony of flavors that’s perfect for family gatherings or simple weeknight dinners.

What makes this chili truly special is how it brings everyone together. Whether it’s serving up bowls at game night or enjoying it as leftovers for lunch, this dish never disappoints. Plus, with the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while you go about your day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal brewing all day.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Kids and adults alike will love the rich taste and hearty texture of this chili.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for meal prep! Make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings to make each bowl unique and fun!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to whip up a comforting meal any time. Here’s what you’ll need to create your 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
• ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper

Optional Toppings

You can personalize your chili with these toppings:
* Shredded cheese
* Sour cream
* Fresh cilantro

Variations

One of the best things about this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the beef with extra beans or lentils to create a hearty plant-based version.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Onions

In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chuck roast pieces along with the diced onion. Cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is tender not only enhances their flavors but also builds a rich base for your chili.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once your meat mixture is ready, stir in the minced garlic. Sautéing garlic for just one more minute adds depth to your chili’s flavor profile. You’ll smell that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Drain any excess fat from the Dutch oven; then return the meat mixture to it. Add in all those delicious canned beans, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings. Stir everything together until it’s well combined—this step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Bring everything to a gentle simmer before carefully transferring it all into your slow cooker. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while cooking low and slow.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic on low heat for 4-6 hours. This long cooking time makes the beef incredibly tender while allowing all those spices to develop fully.

Step 6: Serve Up

When you’re ready to enjoy, serve your chili hot in bowls and let everyone customize their servings with optional toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream. Watching everyone dig into such hearty goodness is truly rewarding!

And there you have it—a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne that’s sure to become a staple in your home! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Making the perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is all about technique and a touch of love. Here are some tips to elevate your chili to the next level!

• Choose the right cut of meat: Using beef chuck roast ensures tender chunks of meat that become melt-in-your-mouth delicious during the slow cooking process.

• Sauté the aromatics: Taking a few extra minutes to sauté the onions and garlic enhances their flavors, adding depth to your chili.

• Layer your spices: Adding spices at different stages (e.g., some while browning the meat and others when combining ingredients) helps build a more complex flavor profile.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the chili to sit for 15-30 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

• Experiment with beans: Feel free to mix different types of beans based on your preference, such as black beans or pinto beans, for added texture and flavor variety.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can be just as fun as making it! With a few simple touches, you can create a beautiful and inviting presentation for your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese adds creaminess that complements the spicy warmth of the chili.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast that balances out the heat, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color, brightening up both the dish and your plate.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili sauce, offering a slightly sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
• Rice: A side of fluffy white or brown rice makes for a hearty addition that pairs well with chili’s richness.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and are perfect for scooping up chili. Plus, they give an extra layer of fun!
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crisp crunch and bright flavor that cuts through the richness of the chili, making it an excellent complement.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne in style! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy hearty, delicious meals throughout the week. You can make a big batch ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you always have a comforting dish ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• 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 to store.
• Label containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerator leftovers, simply microwave in a microwave-safe bowl until heated through.
• For frozen chili, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or use the stovetop or microwave directly from frozen. Cook until it’s hot all the way through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne.

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

Absolutely! Ground beef works well for this recipe and will give you a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious. Just adjust cooking times as needed since ground beef cooks faster than chunks of steak.

How spicy is this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

The spiciness of your chili depends largely on the type of chili powder you use and any additional spices you might add. If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to reduce the amount of chili powder or add other ingredients like bell peppers for sweetness.

Can I make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne without beans?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of beans or have dietary restrictions, you can omit them entirely. You can enhance the beef with extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers instead.

What toppings go well with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Common toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños. Get creative with your favorites!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne! It’s one of those comforting dishes that warms both your heart and your home. Enjoy every savory bite and feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings. Happy cooking!