Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Steak Chili is a deliciously rich Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne that brings together tender beef, hearty beans, and a mix of spices. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this dish stands out with its deep flavors and comforting texture. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe will surely impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work!
• Flavorful: The blend of spices creates a robust taste that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or cilantro for extra flair.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties or family dinners, everyone will love this hearty meal.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking while infusing the chili with deep flavors over several hours.
• Large dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat and sautéing vegetables before transferring to the slow cooker.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For this satisfying Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, gather the following:

Meat and Beans

• 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
• 3 pounds Beef chuck roast (sliced thin and cut into pieces)
• 15 ounces Canned light red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounces Canned dark red kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

Vegetables and Sauces

• 1 Small onion (diced (about 1 cup))
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 8 ounce Canned tomato sauce
• 15 ounces Canned fire roasted diced tomatoes

Broth and Spices

• 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 and Onions

1. In a large dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chuck roast pieces along with the diced onion.
3. Cook until the beef is browned through and the onion is tender.

Step 2: Add Garlic

1. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Drain excess fat from the mixture in the dutch oven.
2. Return it to the heat and add in all remaining ingredients including beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir well until everything is combined.

Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer in the dutch oven.
2. Carefully transfer everything into your slow cooker.

Step 5: Slow Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 4-6 hours until beef is tender.
3. Once done cooking, reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy your hearty Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is an opportunity to get creative with toppings and sides that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Classic Toppings

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack adds a creamy texture and flavor.
• Sour cream: This cool, tangy addition balances the heat of the chili.
• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and color.

Accompanying Sides

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up the delicious juices.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips add a delightful contrast in texture when served alongside.
• Rice: Steamed white or brown rice can help absorb the chili’s rich sauce.

Garnishes

• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and a fresh taste.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens every bite and enhances the dish’s flavors.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne involves a few simple tips to enhance flavor and texture. Here are some helpful suggestions:

• seasoning: Use fresh spices instead of old ones for more vibrant flavors.
• Brown the meat: Searing the beef beforehand adds depth to the chili’s taste.
• Layer ingredients thoughtfully: Add beans last to avoid mushiness; they should retain some texture.
• Taste before serving: Adjust seasoning after cooking; sometimes, it needs just a pinch more salt or spice.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing sides with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can make for a well-rounded meal. Here’s a list of delicious options:

1. Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the chili.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
3. Baked potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for an extra filling meal.
4. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas are great for scooping up your chili.
5. Salad: A light green salad adds freshness and balance to the meal.
6. Pickled jalapeños: For those who enjoy extra heat, pickled jalapeños make a spicy garnish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef beforehand can lead to a less flavorful chili. Always sear the meat in a dutch oven first.
• Ignoring spice adjustments: Each chili recipe is unique. Tasting your chili and adjusting spices as needed will enhance its flavor.
• Using low-quality canned ingredients: Cheap canned beans and tomatoes can affect taste. Choose high-quality, fire-roasted tomatoes for better results.
• Overloading on beans: While beans add texture, too many can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for balance.
• Cooking on high too long: Cooking on high for extended periods can dry out the meat. Always cook on low for optimal tenderness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best flavor.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in a covered oven-safe dish and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What type of meat is best for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Chuck roast is ideal due to its rich flavor and tender texture after slow cooking.

Can I use different beans in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to mix different types of beans based on your preference, but maintain the overall quantity for balance.

How do I make Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne spicier?

Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper at the beginning of cooking. Taste before serving to adjust the heat level.

What toppings go well with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro enhance flavors beautifully. Customize according to your taste!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty dish perfect for cozy nights and gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings or spice levels. Try it out and enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!