Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Stepping into the world of Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne introduces you to a comforting dish that warms the soul. This hearty chili is perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family. With tender pieces of beef, a rich blend of spices, and wholesome beans, this recipe stands out for its deep flavor while being simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a main dish for dinner or a crowd-pleaser at your next potluck, this chili will not disappoint.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep time and the slow cooker doing most of the work, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of tender beef, beans, and spices creates a deep, savory flavor that satisfies every palate.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own or customize with toppings like cheese and sour cream to please everyone at the table.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time for easy weeknight dinners or freeze leftovers for future meals.
• Family-Friendly: This chili is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

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Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne requires just a few essential tools to make the process smooth. Gathering these beforehand helps streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This appliance allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing flavors while you go about your day.
• Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before transferring them to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for safe chopping and preparing your ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the beef chuck roast into pieces.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

• In a large dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
• Add the chuck roast pieces and diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and onions are tender.
• Stir in minced garlic and cook for one additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once browned:
Drain off any excess fat from the dutch oven.
Return the meat mixture to the dutch oven.
Add drained kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until combined.

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

• Bring the mixture to a simmer in the dutch oven.
• Carefully transfer everything into your slow cooker.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker:
Cook on low for 4–6 hours until everything is tender.
After cooking time is complete, reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve

Once ready:
Transfer chili into serving bowls.
Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, or any desired toppings. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can elevate the meal experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, you can add delicious toppings and pairings that enhance the flavors of this hearty dish.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese – A sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creaminess and richness.
• Sour Cream – A dollop offers a cool contrast to the spicy chili.
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro gives a bright, herbal note that complements the spices.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Sweet, moist cornbread is perfect for soaking up the chili.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips add texture and are great for scooping up chili.
• Rice – Serving chili over rice makes for a filling meal that balances flavors.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

To ensure your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat – Use well-marbled beef chuck roast for tenderness and flavor.
• Brown the Meat – Searing the beef enhances its flavor before slow cooking.
• Add Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and onions will provide a more robust taste.
• Adjust Spices – Customize spice levels by adding more chili powder or cumin according to your preference.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the chili to sit for 30 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cornbread – This classic side is slightly sweet and perfect for dipping.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chili.
3. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip adds richness and balances spice beautifully.
4. Mexican Rice – Flavorful rice complements the chili while absorbing its delicious sauce.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies offer a smoky flavor that pairs well with chili.
6. Baked Potatoes – Top baked potatoes with chili for a comforting twist on this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the browning step – Failing to brown the beef before slow cooking can result in a less flavorful dish. Always sear the meat first for rich flavor.
• Using expired spices – Old spices lose their potency and flavor. Check expiration dates and use fresh spices for the best taste.
• Overfilling the slow cooker – Packing too much into your crock pot can lead to uneven cooking. Follow recommended fill levels for even results.
• Not adjusting seasoning – Not tasting and adjusting the seasoning can result in bland chili. Always taste before serving and adjust as needed.
• Ignoring ingredient quality – Low-quality ingredients can ruin the dish’s flavor. Use high-quality meats and fresh vegetables for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What cut of meat is best for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

The best cut of meat is beef chuck roast. It becomes tender during slow cooking and adds great flavor.

Can I add more beans to my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Yes! Adding more beans is a fantastic way to increase volume and nutrition. Consider using black beans or pinto beans as well.

How can I make my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder to kick up the spice level to your preference.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian chili.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is not only hearty and flavorful, but it also offers endless customization options. You can adjust spices, add more veggies, or swap proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that warms both body and soul!