Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a delightful dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. This hearty recipe features tender chunks of beef combined with rich beans, spices, and tomatoes, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Its versatility allows for easy customization, whether you’re serving it at a game day party or enjoying a comforting family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simply combine your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and beef creates a depth of flavor that is truly satisfying.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own, or serve it with toppings like shredded cheese and cilantro for added flair.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this chili will impress your guests with its robust taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne effortlessly, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Great for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before slow cooking, enhancing flavor.
• Slow cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, which tenderizes meat and melds flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Beef Base

• 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)

For the Beans and Tomatoes

• 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

For Seasoning

• 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 Onions

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 meat is browned and the onion is tender.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Drain any excess fat from the mixture in the dutch oven.
2. Return the mixture to the pot.
3. Add drained beans, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
4. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Chili

1. Bring the mixture to a simmer in the dutch oven.
2. Carefully transfer everything into your slow cooker.
3. Cover with a lid and cook on low for 4–6 hours.
4. Once done, you can reduce the temperature to warm until ready to serve.

Step 4: Serve Your Chili

1. Transfer servings into bowls.
2. Top with optional garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne! It’s perfect for any occasion or simply as a comforting weeknight meal.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can elevate your dining experience with a variety of delicious toppings and sides. Here are some great ways to present this hearty dish.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Add a sprinkle of your favorite cheese for a creamy texture that melts perfectly into the chili.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool, tangy flavor that balances the spices in the chili.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of freshness, enhancing the overall taste and presentation.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side to soak up the chili’s rich flavors.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for a fun and interactive way to enjoy your chili.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the spices while adding healthy fats.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

To ensure your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne reaches its full potential, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose quality beef: Opt for fresh, high-quality beef chuck roast for tender and flavorful results.
• Layer flavors: Sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker for deeper flavors.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt or spices as needed to suit your preference.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chili to sit after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cumin and lime complements the richness of the chili.
2. Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the heat of the chili.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with chili.
4. Garlic Bread: Soft garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your chili, adding extra flavor.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a hearty side that goes perfectly with a bowl of chili.
6. Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette cleanses the palate while providing freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the Meat: Cooking the beef for too long can lead to tough meat. Stick to the recommended cooking time for tender chunks.
• Not Using Enough Seasoning: A bland chili is disappointing. Be generous with spices like chili powder and cumin to enhance flavors.
• Skipping the Sauté Step: While you can cook all ingredients in the slow cooker, sautéing the onion and garlic first adds depth. Always sauté before adding to the slow cooker.
• Ignoring Bean Preparation: Canned beans should be drained and rinsed to reduce sodium content. Always rinse them before adding to your chili.
• Neglecting Texture Balance: Too many beans can make your chili too thick or mushy. Balance beans with meat for a better texture.
• Forgetting Toppings: Toppings elevate your dish. Don’t forget to offer options like shredded cheese or sour cream for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Best used within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne that will help you create the best dish possible.

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

The cooking time is approximately 4-6 hours on low heat in a slow cooker. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I use other meats in Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Absolutely! You can substitute beef with chicken, turkey, or lamb for different flavors while keeping it delicious.

What toppings work best with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Common toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and fresh cilantro. Customize based on your preferences!

Is it okay to add vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini can be great additions for more nutrition and flavor. Just chop them small so they cook evenly.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Certainly! Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients can satisfy any appetite. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love its versatility!