Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, then my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is just what you need. This recipe has been a cherished part of my kitchen for years, and it never fails to bring smiles at the dinner table. The rich flavors of tender beef, hearty beans, and spices come together beautifully in a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s one of those dishes that gets better with time, so you can easily make it ahead and let the flavors meld while you go about your day.

Plus, there’s something so satisfying about coming home to the smell of chili wafting through the house! Whether you’re serving it on game day or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dish will surely become a favorite in your household as well.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and minimal hands-on time, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone will love the savory taste and hearty ingredients—it’s sure to please even picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Cook it early in the day and let the slow cooker do all the work until it’s time to eat.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust spices or toppings to fit your family’s preferences; it’s versatile enough for any palate!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gathering these will set you up for a delicious meal that warms hearts as much as it fills bellies.

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 ounce 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 Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is its flexibility! You can easily tweak ingredients to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Feel free to substitute beef chuck with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some bell peppers or corn for an extra dose of nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to kick things up a notch.
• Go vegetarian: Omit the beef entirely and double up on beans or add lentils for a hearty meatless option.

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Sauté the Beef and Onions

In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add in those thinly sliced chuck roast pieces along with diced onion. Sauté until the meat is browned and cooked through, and the onion becomes tender. This step is essential because browning the meat adds depth of flavor to your chili!

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking. Garlic brings an aromatic sweetness that enhances the entire dish—don’t skip this step!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once you’ve drained off any excess fat from your meat mixture, return it to the Dutch oven. Now it’s time to add all those wonderful beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings. Stir everything together until well combined; this is where all those flavors start merging into something magical.

Step 4: Transfer to Crock Pot

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

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic on low heat for about 4-6 hours. As it cooks, those robust flavors deepen even further! When ready to serve, reduce the temperature to warm until you’re ready to dig in.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Transfer generous portions into serving bowls. Let everyone top their bowl with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro—whatever makes them smile! Enjoy every warm spoonful of this delightful Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne; it’s bound to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Making the perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is all about a few key elements. Here are some tips to elevate your chili game!

• Choose quality beef: Using a well-marbled chuck roast will give your chili rich flavor and tenderness, making each bite melt in your mouth.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the chili to cook on low for the full 4-6 hours develops deeper flavors. Don’t rush it; good things come to those who wait!

• Adjust spice levels: If you enjoy a kick, feel free to add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. Start small, taste, and adjust until it’s just right for your palate.

• Use fresh herbs: Adding chopped cilantro or green onions just before serving can brighten the dish and add freshness that complements the hearty flavors.

• Make it ahead: Chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Consider making it a day in advance and reheating it when you’re ready to serve.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can be as creative as you like! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of your favorite cheese (like cheddar or Monterey Jack) melts perfectly on warm chili, adding creaminess and flavor.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cooling contrast to the spices, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.
• Chopped cilantro: Fresh herbs not only add color but also enhance flavors, bringing a delightful brightness to your bowl.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing is slightly sweet and fluffy, perfect for soaking up all that delicious chili goodness.
• Rice: A side of fluffy white or brown rice balances out the meal and gives you something hearty to enjoy with each bite.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips can be served alongside or crumbled on top of your chili for an added texture that makes every mouthful exciting.
• Simple salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the chili, offering a refreshing contrast.

Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, get ready to enjoy a cozy meal that warms both heart and home! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is perfect for meal prep! It stores beautifully, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. You can easily double the recipe and have delicious meals ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the chili completely before freezing.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

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

Can I make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne without beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of vegetables and beans for a hearty meat-free version.

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

This dish takes about 4-6 hours on low in your slow cooker. It’s perfect for starting in the morning and enjoying a warm meal by dinner time!

Can I use different beans in my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match different beans according to your preference. Black beans or pinto beans can be great alternatives.

Final Thoughts

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