Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, you’ve come to the right place! This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The best part? It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of recipe, allowing you to enjoy your day while the flavors meld beautifully together.

What makes this chili so special is its rich and meaty flavor, complemented by tender beans and a blend of spices that will make your taste buds dance. Serve it up with your favorite toppings, and it’s sure to become a go-to in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, this chili comes together quickly and effortlessly.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty flavors and comforting textures.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Just set it in the slow cooker and let it do its magic.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with toppings like shredded cheese or cilantro for added flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this dish is a breeze! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s get started!

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 get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground beef or turkey instead of chuck roast for a different texture.
• Add more veggies: Throw in bell peppers or corn for extra nutrition and sweetness.
• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper if you like heat.
• Beans galore: Mix in other types of beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Meat

In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Searing the beef chuck roast until it’s browned not only enhances its flavor but also adds depth to your chili. Once browned, add the diced onion and sauté until it’s tender. This step releases all those lovely onion aromas!

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, stir in minced garlic and cook for one additional minute. Garlic brings an incredible aroma that elevates the entire dish!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Drain any excess fat from the meat mixture before returning it to the Dutch oven. Now, add in those drained beans, canned tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until well combined. This is where all those wonderful flavors start to mingle together!

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop before carefully transferring it to your slow cooker. Cover it up and let it work its magic on low heat for about 4-6 hours. This long cooking time allows all those flavors to deepen.

Step 5: Serve Up!

Once ready, transfer your chili into serving bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro as desired. Each bowl is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl!

Enjoy this delightful Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne with loved ones around the table—it’s bound to warm hearts as much as it warms bellies!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Creating a delicious slow cooker chili con carne is easier with a few handy tips to elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose Quality Beef: Opt for grass-fed beef if possible, as it not only enhances flavor but also packs in more nutrients. Tender cuts like chuck roast are ideal for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Layer Flavors: Don’t rush the sautéing step! Browning the meat and onions before adding them to the slow cooker deepens the flavor profile, making your chili taste even richer.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. This allows you to customize the heat according to your palate and makes it more enjoyable for everyone at the table.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your chili to sit for 30 minutes after cooking enables flavors to meld beautifully. This resting period can make a significant difference in taste!

• Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix and match different types of beans based on what you have on hand or your preferences. Black beans or pinto beans can add interesting textures and flavors.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your slow cooker chili con carne can be as creative as it is delicious! Here are some ideas that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creaminess and balances out the spices.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro brings a bright, fresh note that cuts through the richness of the chili.
• Sour cream substitute: A dollop of plant-based sour cream or Greek yogurt offers a cool contrast, enhancing every bite.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Soft and buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices of your chili. Plus, it adds a comforting sweetness that pairs beautifully with spicy dishes.

• Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as an excellent base for your chili, making it heartier while absorbing all those wonderful flavors.

• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a satisfying contrast in texture. They also work great for dipping into your chili!

• Green salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the chili.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather around the table and enjoy this comforting bowl of slow cooker chili con carne!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a hearty and delicious dish throughout the week. You can whip up a big batch, store it properly, and have it ready to go for busy nights!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down to room temperature first.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute increments until hot, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dish!

Can I use ground beef in the Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses chuck roast for tender chunks, ground beef can also work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you like it milder, reduce the chili powder and add more beans. For extra heat, feel free to add jalapeños or red pepper flakes!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

This chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, crackers, or over rice. You can also serve it with a side salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a cold day. Enjoy every comforting bite and don’t hesitate to make it your own with your favorite toppings. Happy cooking!