Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. This rich chili features tender beef, flavorful beans, and a blend of spices, making it perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends. Whether you serve it for game day or a family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and slow cooking creates a deep, savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Serving Options: Customize your bowl with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein from beef and beans, this chili is a meal that keeps you satisfied.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This chili tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right kitchen equipment can make all the difference in preparing your dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; perfect for melding flavors over several hours.
• Large dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before transferring to the slow cooker.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precise chopping of ingredients, enhancing the overall texture of your chili.

Ingredients

For the Chili 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 ounces Canned tomato sauce
• 15 ounces Canned fire roasted diced tomatoes

Broth and Seasonings

• 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 Meat & Onions

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on the stovetop.
2. Carefully transfer everything into your slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook & Serve

1. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for about 4–6 hours.
2. Once done cooking, reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.
3. Ladle into bowls and add desired toppings before enjoying!

With this recipe for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, you’re set for a delicious meal that everyone will love! Enjoy every comforting bite!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a delightful experience that invites creativity. You can enhance the flavors and presentation with various toppings and accompaniments.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of your favorite cheese adds creaminess and richness to each bowl.
• Sour Cream: This cool, tangy addition helps balance the spice in the chili.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color to your dish.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up all the delicious juices.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a fun texture contrast and can be used for scooping.
• Rice: Serve chili over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal that stretches the servings further.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

To make the best Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use fresh beef chuck roast for a tender texture and robust flavor.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with spices; they are key to making your chili flavorful. Adjust them according to your taste.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the chili to cook low and slow enhances its depth of flavor; aim for at least 4 hours in the slow cooker.
• Add Fresh Ingredients Last: If using any fresh herbs or delicate vegetables, add them during the last hour of cooking for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Cornbread: This classic pairing is sweet and buttery, perfect for soaking up chili.
2. Garden Salad: A crisp salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the hearty chili.
3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a rich texture that balances the spiciness of the chili.
4. Baked Potatoes: Soft baked potatoes are comforting and can be topped with chili for a filling meal.
5. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the warm chili while adding brightness.
6. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice gives an additional layer of flavor that pairs well with spicy dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold Ingredients: Using the wrong ingredients can alter the flavor. Always double-check your pantry for all items before starting.
• Bold Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the slow cooker too much can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended capacity for best results.
• Bold Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef may lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always brown your meat before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Bold Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your chili bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings when necessary.
• Bold Cooking Time Misjudgment: Cooking for too long or too short can affect texture. Follow the time guidelines closely for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing 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, ensuring tender beef and well-blended flavors.

Can I substitute beans in Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Yes! You can use different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

What toppings work well with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor and texture.

How do I spice up my Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Consider adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper for extra heat if you enjoy spicy dishes!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and tender beef make it comforting and satisfying. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite beans or spices to suit your taste! Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite.