Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. This hearty dish combines tender beef, beans, and a rich blend of spices, creating a delightful flavor profile that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its robust taste and effortless preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a simple setup and minimal active cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and slow-cooked beef creates a mouthwatering chili that bursts with flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your chili with various toppings like shredded cheese or cilantro to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re having friends over or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this chili fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, you’ll need a few essential tools. Gather these items before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large dutch oven
• Slow cooker
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large dutch oven: Ideal for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables evenly before transferring to the slow cooker.
• Slow cooker: Perfect for allowing the flavors to meld over several hours, resulting in tender meat and rich sauce.
• Wooden spoon: Great for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements, which is key to achieving the best flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the 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 Chili Mixture

• 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

Seasonings

• 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: Brown the Meat

In a large dutch oven, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat.
* Add the chuck roast pieces along with diced onion.
* Cook until the beef is browned and onion has softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once browned, add minced garlic to the mixture.
* Sauté for about one additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

After draining excess fat from the pan,
* Return the meat mixture back into the dutch oven.
* Stir in drained kidney beans, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
* Carefully transfer everything into your slow cooker.

Step 5: Cook

Cover your slow cooker lid tightly.
* Set it on low heat for 4–6 hours or until beef is tender. You can reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve

When ready to enjoy,
* Transfer chili into serving bowls and top with your choice of optional toppings like shredded cheese or cilantro.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is an enjoyable experience that can be tailored to your taste. Whether you like it spicy or mild, there are numerous ways to elevate this hearty dish.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Add a generous handful of shredded cheese for a creamy texture that melts beautifully over the chili.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast and balances the spices in the chili.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness and a burst of flavor, enhancing the overall presentation.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a slightly sweet complement that pairs well with the savory chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips can be enjoyed as dippers or crumbled on top for added texture.
• Rice: A bowl of fluffy rice is a great way to soak up all the delicious chili juices.

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.

• Use Quality Beef: Select high-quality beef chuck roast for maximum flavor and tenderness in your chili.
• Brown the Meat: Browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor through caramelization.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference, adding more chili powder for extra heat or cumin for warmth.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to rest after cooking can help meld flavors together, making it even tastier.

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 great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your chili.
2. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy flavor that complements the richness of the chili.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty base for spooning over your chili.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies add a smoky element and are excellent for balancing out rich flavors.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice make for a vibrant and filling accompaniment.
6. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the dish while adding freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, it’s crucial to steer clear of common pitfalls.

• Skipping the browning step: Browning your beef adds depth of flavor. Always sear the meat before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Overcrowding the pot: If you add too many ingredients at once, the chili may not cook evenly. Stick to the recipe measurements for best results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting as you go is vital. Don’t be afraid to add more spices or salt based on your preference.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh, quality ingredients make a difference in taste. Invest in good beef and fresh vegetables for a superior chili.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing your chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld flavors. Don’t rush to serve immediately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Chili can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

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

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty dish made with beef, beans, and spices, cooked slowly to enhance flavors.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Absolutely! You can add different beans, vegetables, or adjust spice levels according to your taste.

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

It typically takes about 4–6 hours on low heat in a slow cooker.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Consider serving it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is not just comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various toppings or additional ingredients. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this chili recipe will satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today!