Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner. With tender beef and robust flavors, this chili will become a staple in your kitchen. The slow-cooked method ensures that every ingredient melds beautifully, creating a rich and comforting experience. Whether served on its own or with your favorite toppings, this chili is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss all ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices and slow cooking creates deep, rich flavors that elevate this dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it alone or top it with cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs for added flair.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze for later.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, family dinners, or casual get-togethers; everyone loves a good chili!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; just set it and forget it while the flavors develop over time.
• Dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat before slow cooking, helping to build flavor through caramelization.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for quickly dicing onions and mincing garlic with precision.

Ingredients

For this delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main 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)

Beans and 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

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: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: 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 meat is browned and onions are tender.

Step 3: Add Garlic

1. Stir in minced garlic and cook for one additional minute to release its aroma.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Drain off any 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 ground black pepper.
4. Stir everything until well combined.

Step 5: Transfer to Slow Cooker

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

Step 6: Slow Cook

1. Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 4-6 hours.
2. Once cooked, you can reduce temperature to warm until ready to serve.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer chili into serving bowls and top with optional toppings like shredded cheese or sour cream if desired.

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 meal experience. With a few thoughtful toppings and sides, you can create a delightful dining atmosphere that complements the rich flavors of the chili.

Toppings

• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of cheddar or Monterey Jack adds creaminess and balances the spiciness.
• Sour cream: A dollop provides a cool contrast to the heat of the chili.
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro offers a fresh, herbal note that brightens the dish.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with chili, soaking up the sauce and adding texture.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy chips can be used for dipping or as a base for serving chili.
• Rice: A side of fluffy white or brown rice is perfect for those who prefer a more filling option.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

To ensure your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne turns out delicious every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose quality beef: Select a good cut of beef chuck roast for tender chunks that enhance flavor.
• Brown the meat: Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker develops deeper flavors.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices will provide more robust flavors than pre-ground options.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go; it’s easier to add more spices than to correct an overly seasoned dish.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne can round out your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into the chili.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
3. Baked potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for a comforting combination.
4. Mixed green salad: A light salad provides a fresh balance to the richness of the chili.
5. Grilled vegetables: Seasonal vegetables add color and flavor, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
6. Nachos: Tortilla chips piled high with cheese and jalapeños make for a fun sharing option alongside chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne, there are common pitfalls that can affect the final outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can lead to bland chili. Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.

• Bold meat preparation: Skipping the browning step for the beef can result in less flavor. Always sear your meat for a richer taste.

• Bold using canned ingredients: Not rinsing canned beans can introduce excess sodium. Rinse them well to keep your chili healthy.

• Bold cooking time miscalculation: Cooking for too long or too short can affect texture. Follow the cooking times closely for best results.

• Bold ignoring toppings: Neglecting to add toppings can make the dish less appealing. Garnish with cheese, sour cream, or herbs for added flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warm.

• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne:

Can I use different types of meat in this Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Yes! You can substitute beef with turkey or lamb if you prefer a different flavor profile.

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

Cooking on low takes about 4-6 hours, ensuring tender meat and well-blended flavors.

What beans work best in Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Light and dark red kidney beans are great choices, but feel free to mix with black beans or pinto beans for variety.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

What toppings do you recommend for Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or fresh avocado slices.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is not just a hearty meal; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different beans, spices, or vegetables based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!