Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. This flavorful chili is perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or meal prepping for the week ahead. The combination of tender beef, rich beans, and robust spices makes it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich in Flavor: The blend of spices and quality ingredients creates a deep, satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Perfect for All Seasons: While it’s ideal for cool weather, this chili can be enjoyed any time of the year.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for achieving the tender meat and blended flavors that define chili con carne.
• Large dutch oven: Perfect for searing the beef and cooking the aromatics before transferring to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: These tools make chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring even pieces for consistent cooking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For this delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, gather the following ingredients:

• 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

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pieces of beef chuck roast along with the diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned throughout and onions are tender, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic

1. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Drain off excess fat from the meat mixture.
2. Return the mixture to the dutch oven.
3. Add both types of beans, tomato sauce, fire roasted diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

1. Bring the mixture to a simmer on medium heat.
2. Carefully transfer everything into your slow cooker.

Step 5: Cook

1. Cover with lid and set to low heat.
2. Allow it to cook for approximately 4-6 hours until flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once cooked, reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.
2. Ladle into serving bowls and top with optional ingredients like shredded cheese or sour cream as desired.

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne promises warmth on chilly days while being incredibly easy to prepare! Enjoy every spoonful!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can elevate the dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will enhance the flavors and presentation of your dish.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese – Add a layer of shredded cheese for a creamy texture that melts beautifully into the chili.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream provides a cool contrast to the spicy chili.
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and bright flavor.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Serve warm cornbread on the side for a sweet and savory pairing.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips make for a fun dipping option and add texture to your meal.
• Rice – A bed of fluffy rice absorbs the chili’s rich flavors, making for a hearty meal.

Garnishes

• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices lend a rich flavor and balance out the spice.
• Green Onions – Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor and vibrant color.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Quality Beef – Choose well-marbled beef chuck roast for tenderness and flavor.
• Brown Your Meat – Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth of flavor.
• Let It Simmer – Allow your chili to cook on low for at least 4 hours; longer simmering enhances the flavors.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as it cooks, adjusting seasonings like salt, pepper, or chili powder as needed.
• Experiment with Beans – Mix different beans for varied textures and flavors, such as black beans or pinto beans.
• Cool Before Storing – If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip that complements the spice of the chili perfectly.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
3. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes serve as an excellent base for spooning over chili.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Sweet corn on the cob topped with cheese and spices brings vibrant flavors to your meal.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for an interesting side that pairs well with chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cut of meat: Choosing a lean cut can result in dry chili. Opt for beef chuck roast, which is flavorful and tender when slow-cooked.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meat can lead to a less rich flavor. Always brown your meat and onions before adding them to the slow cooker for depth.
• Adding too much liquid: Overloading with broth or canned tomatoes can make your chili watery. Measure carefully to achieve the right consistency.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting as you go can lead to bland chili. Adjust spices and seasonings toward the end of cooking for optimal flavor.
• Overcooking beans: If using dried beans, make sure they are pre-soaked and cooked before adding them to avoid mushiness. Canned beans should be added later in the cooking process.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to label with the date.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Place chili in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What kind of beans can I use?

You can use light red kidney beans, dark red kidney beans, or even black beans. Just ensure they’re drained and rinsed if canned.

How spicy is this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder you add. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker?

Cook on low for 4-6 hours for best results. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!