Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with family and friends. This recipe features tender beef, a medley of beans, and a rich blend of spices that come together beautifully in your slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply craving comfort food, this chili will impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and tender beef creates a deep and satisfying taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like cheese or cilantro to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and vegetables before transferring to the slow cooker, ensuring maximum flavor.
• Slow cooker: This tool allows you to set it and forget it while slowly cooking the chili to perfection.

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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

• 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

Seasoning

• 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 Vegetables

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 is tender.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
2. Return the meat mixture to the dutch oven.
3. Add both types of drained kidney beans, tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

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

Step 4: Slow Cook

1. Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 4–6 hours.
2. Once done cooking, you can reduce the temperature to warm until you’re ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle the chili into serving bowls.
2. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne! Perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Serving your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can elevate the dining experience. Here are some tasty suggestions to complement this hearty dish.

Toppings

• Shredded Cheese: Add a generous handful of shredded cheese on top for a creamy and melty finish.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a cool contrast to the spicy chili.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor and color, enhancing the overall presentation.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Serve with warm cornbread for a classic pairing that soaks up the chili’s rich flavors.
• Rice: A side of fluffy rice can balance the spiciness and add texture.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips provide a delightful crunch and are perfect for scooping up chili.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is simple with these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled beef chuck roast for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Brown the Meat: Searing the meat before slow cooking enhances its richness and adds depth to the chili.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the chili to cook longer helps develop its flavors, making it even more delicious.
• Adjust Spices: Taste and adjust spices before serving; everyone’s palate is different!
• Experiment with Beans: Mix different types of beans for varied textures and tastes in your chili.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can create a complete meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the thick chili.
2. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the warm, hearty chili.
3. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes as a base for the chili, offering a filling option.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies add color and nutrition alongside your meal.
5. Mexican Street Corn: This sweet and savory treat complements the spice of the chili perfectly.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Roasted stuffed peppers filled with grains or beans make an attractive side dish.
7. Salad Greens: A light salad with vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the chili.
8. Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas cut into triangles are fun to dip into your bowl of chili!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong type of meat can alter the flavor. Always choose quality beef or turkey for the best results.
• Bold seasoning misunderstandings: Don’t skimp on spices! Proper seasoning is key to a flavorful chili. Adjust the amounts of chili powder and cumin as per your taste.
• Bold texture issues: Avoid overcooking the beans. Add them later in the cooking process to maintain their texture.
• Bold liquid levels: Using too much liquid can make your chili soupy. Stick to the recommended amounts for broth and tomato products.
• Bold temperature control: Cooking on too high a setting may dry out the meat. Use low heat for a longer time to keep everything juicy and tender.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Chili can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated throughout, usually about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use ground beef instead of chuck roast?

Yes, ground beef can be used in place of chuck roast for a different texture and quicker cooking time.

How spicy is Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

The spiciness depends on how much chili powder you use. Start with a mild amount and adjust according to your preference.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Serve with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a hearty meal.

Can I add vegetables to my chili?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

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

Cooking on low takes about 4-6 hours, making it perfect for busy days.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!