Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Stepping into the world of hearty meals, Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul. Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or cozy dinners at home, this chili features tender beef, vibrant beans, and a melty blend of spices. The slow cooker makes it easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy rich flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply throw the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices and beef creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your chili with your favorite toppings or serve it with cornbread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gathering the right tools will make your experience smoother. A few essential kitchen items will help you create this delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for searing meat and sautéing vegetables before slow cooking, enhancing flavors.
• Slow cooker: Perfect for simmering ingredients over several hours, resulting in tender meat and rich flavors.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients with ease.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and efficient preparation of all your ingredients.

Ingredients

Main 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)

Beans & Tomatoes

• 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

Broth & Spices

• 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 Meat

In a large dutch oven, heat oil over medium high heat.
1. Add the chuck roast pieces and diced onion.
2. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is tender.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for one additional minute.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Drain off any excess fat from the dutch oven.
2. Return the mixture to the pot.
3. Stir in drained beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

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

Step 4: Cook Low & Slow

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4–6 hours.
1. Once cooked through, reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer to serving bowls and add desired toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro before serving.

Now you’re ready to savor every bite of your delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can elevate your meal experience. This hearty dish pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides that enhance its rich flavors.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Add a sprinkle of your favorite cheese for creaminess.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds tang and balances the spices.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness and a burst of flavor to each bite.

Accompanying Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up the chili’s rich sauce.
• Rice: Fluffy white rice makes a great base to serve the chili on top.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips add texture and are great for scooping.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose fresh beef chuck roast for tender chunks that melt in your mouth.
• Brown the Meat: Searing the meat before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor.
• Adjust Spices: Taste as you go; feel free to add more chili powder or cumin for extra warmth.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the chili to cook low and slow helps blend all the flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some delicious options.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and complements the spices perfectly.
2. Garden Salad: A fresh salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty chili.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for a filling meal.
4. Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw balance out the richness of the chili.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled veggies provide a healthy, flavorful side option.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and beans make an excellent companion dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not browning the meat properly: Failing to brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker can result in less flavor. Take the time to sear it in a skillet first.
• Skipping the seasoning: Many newcomers forget to season their chili well. Be sure to include enough chili powder and spices for a robust flavor.
• Overloading with beans: Adding too many beans can make your chili too thick or mushy. Stick to recommended quantities for the best texture.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking your chili for either too short or too long can affect its taste and texture. Follow the timing closely for optimal results.
• Not tasting before serving: Always taste your chili at the end of cooking. You might need to adjust salt or spices based on your preference.

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 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use ground beef instead of chuck roast?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for chuck roast in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as ground beef cooks faster.

How spicy is Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

The spice level depends on how much chili powder you use. Start with less and add more if desired for extra heat!

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I thicken my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering uncovered on low heat or adding cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.

What toppings go well with this chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or diced green onions. Customize according to your taste!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is not just a hearty meal; it’s also versatile and customizable. You can adjust spices and add ingredients based on what you enjoy most. This recipe is perfect for cozy nights at home or gatherings with friends. Give it a try!