Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for those chilly nights. This rich, meaty chili combines tender beef, beans, and spices, making it a versatile choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The slow cooker method ensures deep flavors develop while you go about your day, providing a warm and satisfying meal without much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This slow cooker chili requires minimal prep time. Just chop your ingredients, toss them in the pot, and let the slow cooker do the work.
• Flavorful Satisfaction: Each bite bursts with rich flavors from spices and slow-cooked beef. It’s a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own or with a variety of toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to suit everyone’s taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week. It’s even better the next day!
• Great for Gatherings: Whether it’s game day or a family reunion, this chili is sure to please a crowd.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The star of this recipe! It allows for hands-off cooking, which means you can set it and forget it while you handle other tasks.
• Large dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before transferring to the slow cooker. It distributes heat evenly for perfect cooking results.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

Ingredients

Steak Chili is a rich, meaty chili con carne recipe with chunks of tender beef, beans and spices. It’s the perfect meal for cool weather.

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)
– 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
– 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 oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chuck roast pieces along with diced onion.
3. Cook until the meat is browned all over and the onion is tender.

Step 2: Add Garlic

1. Stir in minced garlic.
2. Cook for one additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

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

Step 5: Cook on Low

1. Cover and cook on low for about 4–6 hours.
2. If desired, reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

1. Transfer chili to serving bowls.
2. Top with your choice of shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can elevate the dining experience. This rich dish pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides, enhancing its flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Toppings

• Shredded cheese – A sprinkle of your favorite cheese adds creaminess and richness.
• Sour cream – A dollop of sour cream balances the spices, offering a cool contrast.
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brings brightness and a hint of herbal flavor.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Soft, warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up the chili’s hearty sauce.
• Tortilla chips – Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and make for great scooping tools.
• Rice – A side of rice provides a mild base that complements the robust chili flavors.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

To ensure your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne turns out perfect every time, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh produce enhances the overall taste, making your chili vibrant and flavorful.
• Sear the meat – Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth to the dish’s flavor profile.
• Adjust spices – Taste as you go; feel free to increase or decrease spices based on personal preference.
• Let it simmer longer – For richer flavors, let your chili cook on low for an extended period, if possible.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish.

1. Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip adds richness and a refreshing touch.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw provides a crisp contrast to the warm chili.
3. Baked potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty base for chili toppings.
4. Grilled vegetables – Smoky grilled veggies enhance the meal with their charred flavors.
5. Mexican street corn salad – This sweet and spicy salad brightens up each bite of chili.
6. Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas offer a delicious way to enjoy leftovers or pair with your chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Make sure you leave enough space for steam to circulate.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef beforehand can lead to less flavor. Take the time to sear the meat before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Using too little seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland chili. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust spices as needed.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality ingredients can affect the final dish. Use fresh, high-quality produce and meats for better flavor.
• Not letting it cook long enough: Rushing the cooking time can lead to tough meat. Allow at least 4 hours on low heat for tender results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken or turkey. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

How spicy is this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

The spice level depends on your chili powder and any additional ingredients you add. Feel free to adjust according to your preference.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, corn, or zucchini are great additions for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I thicken my chili?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the chili during the last hour of cooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and seasonings are free from gluten-containing ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors make it a comforting choice on cool days. Customize it with your favorite toppings or add more veggies for added nutrition. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious bowl of chili!