Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is the ultimate comfort food for cozy evenings. This hearty dish, packed with tender beef, flavorful beans, and a blend of spices, is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Its slow-cooked goodness allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re serving it on game day or enjoying a quiet night in, this chili will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready to go without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef and spices creates a deep, satisfying flavor that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain or top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for added flair.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge!
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a holiday gathering, this chili fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. These help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Slow cooker (crock pot)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before slow cooking, allowing you to build layers of flavor.
• Slow cooker: Perfect for low-and-slow cooking; it keeps the chili warm until you’re ready to serve.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise cutting of ingredients such as onions and garlic, which enhances their flavor release during cooking.

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 and 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

Seasonings and Broth

• 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: Sauté the Beef and Onion

1. In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef chuck pieces along with the diced onion.
3. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through while the onion becomes tender.

Step 2: Add Garlic

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

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

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

Step 5: Cook Low & Slow

1. Cover your slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for about 4–6 hours or until flavors meld perfectly.
3. If desired, reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve

1. Spoon into serving bowls.
2. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro as desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is not just about the chili itself; it’s also about enhancing the meal with delightful toppings and sides. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty dish.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: A generous sprinkle of shredded cheese adds creaminess and richness to each bowl.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spices and provides a cool contrast.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color, elevating the presentation.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Warm, buttery cornbread is a classic companion that pairs beautifully with the flavors of chili.
• Rice: Serving chili over a bed of fluffy rice can help soak up the delicious sauce.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips can be served alongside for scooping up the chili or as a side snack.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne takes a few key steps to ensure it’s packed with flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use Quality Beef: Choose a good cut of beef, like chuck roast, for tenderness and rich flavor in your chili.
• Sauté Your Vegetables: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavors significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your chili halfway through cooking and adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor balance.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together even further.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread complements the richness of chili perfectly.
2. Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the chili’s robust flavors well.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds freshness and creaminess that contrasts nicely with spicy chili.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides texture and a refreshing bite alongside warm chili.
5. Baked Potatoes: Serve chili over baked potatoes for a hearty twist.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly grilled veggies add color and nutrition, balancing out the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can be a delicious dish, but common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much liquid: Adding excessive broth or sauce can lead to a watery chili. Stick to the recipe’s measurements for balance.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping or skimping on spices can make your chili bland. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed during cooking.
• Overcooking meat: Cooking beef for too long can make it tough. Monitor cooking times closely, especially when transferring from stovetop to slow cooker.
• Forgetting the beans: If you add beans too soon, they may become mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Skipping toppings: Toppings enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t forget options like cheese or cilantro for added deliciousness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use ground beef instead of chunks?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef for the chuck roast if you prefer a different texture. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne spicier?

To increase the spice level, add more chili powder or include fresh jalapeños or cayenne pepper according to your taste preference.

Can I add vegetables to my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini can add flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces and stir them in before cooking.

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

It typically takes 4-6 hours on low heat in the slow cooker. You can also keep it warm until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is not only hearty but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients like vegetables or different beans. Try this recipe today and enjoy a cozy meal that warms both body and soul!