Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is just what you need. It’s a recipe that holds a special place in my home, perfect for chilly evenings or casual family gatherings. The blend of tender beef, hearty beans, and vibrant spices creates a dish that’s comforting and delicious. Plus, it practically cooks itself while you go about your day!

This chili is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. You’ll love how this recipe brings everyone together around the table for good food and even better conversation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a bit of chopping and stirring, you can set this meal up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the rich flavors and hearty ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for busy weeknights—just prep it in the morning and come home to a delightful dinner.
• Flavorful & Comforting: Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making it ideal for any occasion.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings to suit everyone’s taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple, wholesome, and easy to find at your local grocery store. Gather these items to create a delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne that everyone will love.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily modify it to match your tastes or what’s in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Try using 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 like heat, add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to kick up the flavor.
• Go meatless: Use beans or lentils as the main ingredient for a hearty vegetarian option.

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. Sauté until the meat is nicely browned and cooked through, while the onions become soft and translucent. This step develops rich flavors that set the foundation for your chili.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once your meat and onions are ready, stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for about one additional minute until fragrant. Garlic adds depth to your dish, making every bite irresistible.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Drain off any excess fat from the mixture before returning it to the dutch oven. Now it’s time to add all those wonderful beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined—this is where all those flavors meld beautifully!

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop before carefully transferring it to your slow cooker. This helps kickstart cooking and ensures that all those flavors start mingling right away.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat for about 4-6 hours. After that time has passed, you can reduce the temperature to warm until you’re ready to serve. The long cooking time allows everything to become tender and infused with flavor.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, ladle the chili into serving bowls. Feel free to offer optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for guests to customize their bowls just how they like them!

Now you’re all set! I can’t wait for you to try this delightful Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne—it’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Making the perfect chili is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Selecting a well-marbled cut like chuck roast ensures that your chili will be tender and flavorful after slow cooking.

• Don’t skip the browning: Browning the meat and onions before adding them to the slow cooker enhances the depth of flavor, giving your chili a rich, savory base.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the spice level by adding cayenne pepper or jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjusting spices allows you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.

• Let it rest: Allowing your chili to sit for about 30 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a more harmonious dish.

• Make it ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance and reheating. This can save you time on busy weeknights!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne creatively can make mealtime feel special! Here are some ideas to help you present this hearty dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheese adds creaminess and richness that complements the spiciness of the chili.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast, balancing out the heat while adding a creamy texture.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro not only brightens up the dish but also introduces a fresh flavor that enhances every bite.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing offers a sweet and moist contrast to spicy chili. Its fluffy texture is perfect for soaking up every last drop!
• Rice: Serving your chili over a bed of fluffy rice adds heartiness and helps balance out the robust flavors of the dish.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are great for dipping and add an enjoyable texture contrast when enjoyed alongside your warm chili.
• Green salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette provides freshness and lightness, making it an excellent companion to rich chili.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne will surely impress! Enjoy this cozy meal with family or friends, knowing you’ve crafted something truly delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch in advance, store it, and enjoy hearty meals throughout the week.

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

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! Ground beef is a great alternative. Just cook it until browned before adding it to your slow cooker with the other ingredients.

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

This recipe typically takes 4-6 hours on low heat. It’s perfect for set-and-forget cooking while you go about your day!

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Consider pairing your chili with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. Toppings like cheese, sour cream, and avocado also add delightful flavor!

Can I modify the spice level of my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Certainly! Adjust the chili powder and cumin according to your taste. For extra heat, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Gather your loved ones around the table and savor each bite together. Happy cooking!