Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

The Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or meal prepping for the week. This rich chili features tender pieces of beef combined with beans and spices, making it a satisfying choice for any occasion. Not only does it warm you up on chilly days, but it’s also versatile enough to cater to different tastes with optional toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and slow cooking results in a deeply satisfying flavor profile that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your bowl with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: This chili recipe is mild enough for kids while still being flavorful enough for adults.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious chili, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Slow cooker (crock pot)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before transferring them to the slow cooker.
• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; simply set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully over hours.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cuts, making preparation faster and safer.

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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 & 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 & 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 Onions

1. In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef chuck roast pieces along with diced onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion becomes tender.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Drain off any excess fat from the dutch oven and return the mixture to it.
2. Add both types of beans, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and ground black pepper.
3. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

1. Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stove before carefully transferring it to your slow cooker.
2. Cover with a lid and cook on low for about 4–6 hours until the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once cooked, reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.
2. Transfer chili into bowls and offer optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can elevate the dining experience and make the meal even more enjoyable. Here are some delicious ways to serve this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a fresh, herbal note.
• Green Onions: Add sliced green onions for a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Offer Tasty Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Melted cheese adds creaminess and richness to each bowl.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spice with its coolness.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping into the chili.
• Cornbread: A side of warm cornbread complements the chili’s flavors perfectly.

Serve with Rice

• Steamed Rice: Offering steamed rice on the side allows guests to make their chili bowls heartier.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice can enhance the overall flavor profile of your meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne takes a little attention but is well worth it. Here are some tips to ensure you create the best chili possible.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose fresh beef chuck roast for tender, flavorful chunks in your chili.
• Brown the Meat First: Searing the beef enhances its flavor before slow cooking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go; feel free to add more chili powder or cumin according to your heat preference.
• Let it Simmer Longer: For deeper flavors, let your chili simmer at least 6 hours on low heat.
• Experiment with Beans: Try different types of beans or even add lentils for variety and texture.
• Add Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or corn for additional nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Enjoying side dishes alongside your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that pair well with this rich dish.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread is a classic pairing that complements chili beautifully.
2. Garden Salad: A fresh salad made from mixed greens and veggies provides a crisp contrast to the warmth of chili.
3. Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy chips makes for an excellent appetizer before diving into the chili.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili, cheese, and other toppings for a filling option.
5. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and balances out the spiciness of the chili.
6. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or carrots offer a healthy accompaniment without overpowering flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Bold flavor choices: Using bland spices can lead to a dull chili. Always use fresh spices and adjust them according to your taste.
• Neglecting meat preparation: Cutting the beef too large can result in tough pieces. Ensure you slice the beef thinly and evenly for tenderness.
• Overlooking cooking times: Cooking on high instead of low can alter the texture of your chili. Stick to low heat for a rich and hearty flavor.
• Ignoring bean preparation: Not rinsing canned beans may add excess sodium. Always drain and rinse beans before adding them for a healthier dish.
• Using the wrong broth: Substituting with water instead of broth can make your chili bland. Use beef broth for depth or vegetable broth for a lighter touch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 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 bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl; cover and microwave in intervals, stirring often until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

It takes about 4-6 hours on low heat in the slow cooker. This slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust spices based on your preference.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

This chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or even tortilla chips for dipping.

Is Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne healthy?

Yes! It’s packed with protein from beef and beans, plus fiber from the vegetables, making it a nutritious meal option.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings or ingredients according to your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors!