Slow Cooker Beef Chili

The moment I think of comfort food, Slow Cooker Beef Chili jumps to mind. On chilly winter evenings, there’s something magical about the aroma of a hearty chili simmering away in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; I had a group of friends over for a casual dinner party. As the night went on, the enticing scent filled the air, drawing everyone to the kitchen. They couldn’t wait to dig in, and neither could I! The combination of spices and tender beef creates an irresistible dish that warms both the belly and the heart.

Every bite of Slow Cooker Beef Chili is packed with flavor, thanks to the diverse range of ingredients that meld beautifully together. The slow cooking process allows the spices to infuse the beef, resulting in a rich, savory experience. It’s not just a meal; it’s an event that brings people together. I often find myself making this chili for gatherings, potlucks, and even cozy nights in. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be left to work its magic while I mingle with my guests.

This dish is versatile, too. Whether you serve it on a chilly evening, a casual gathering, or even on a game day, Slow Cooker Beef Chili never fails to impress. And the toppings? Oh, the toppings! From shredded cheese to fresh cilantro and avocado, the possibilities are endless. I love how this recipe allows for a bit of creativity with each serving.

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that will surely please a crowd, Slow Cooker Beef Chili is the way to go. With its robust flavors and heartwarming qualities, I guarantee you won’t want to keep this recipe a secret!

Everything You Need for Slow Cooker Beef Chili

When it comes to making Slow Cooker Beef Chili, the ingredients are what really set it apart. Each one plays a vital role in creating that rich, satisfying flavor we all love. The combination of proteins, beans, and spices come together to create a comforting meal that nourishes both body and soul.

• 1 lb Beef Chuck Roast or Top Round Steak, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces: The star of the show! This beef becomes incredibly tender as it cooks, providing the perfect texture.
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil: Used for searing the beef, it adds richness and depth of flavor.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced: Adds sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
• ½ Onion, diced: A classic base flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 30 oz Chili Beans, canned: These contribute heartiness and a creamy texture.
• 15 oz Tomato Sauce: A key ingredient that adds moisture and tanginess.
• 15 oz Diced Tomatoes, canned: For a bit of freshness and flavor complexity.
• 2 cups Beef Broth: Provides a rich base for the chili.
• 2 tbsp Chili Powder: The essential spice that gives chili its warm, deep flavor.
• 1 tbsp Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder: Adds aromatic flavor that complements the beef.
• 1 tsp Onion Powder: Enhances the onion flavor throughout the dish.
• 1 tsp Cumin: A warm spice that contributes to the chili’s depth.
• 1 tsp Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• ½ tsp Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat.
• 2 tbsp Cornmeal: Thickens the chili and adds a bit more texture.
• 1 tbsp Diced Parsley: A fresh touch to sprinkle on top before serving.

Putting Together Slow Cooker Beef Chili

Creating a pot of Slow Cooker Beef Chili is a delightful process. You get to enjoy the wonderful aromas that waft through your kitchen, making it all worth it. Let’s dive into the steps!

1. Start by seasoning the beef chunks with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the meat right from the start. The seasoning should be generous; you want each piece to be flavorful.
2. Next, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the seasoned beef. Sear the pieces on all sides until they’re beautifully browned, which will take about 3 to 5 minutes. This step adds a depth of flavor that will elevate your chili.
3. After browning the beef, transfer it to the slow cooker. Add the diced bell pepper, diced onion, chili beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Cover the slow cooker and set it on LOW heat. Allow it to cook for about 5 to 6 hours. This is where the magic happens! As it cooks, the beef will become tender and the flavors will meld beautifully.
5. Approximately 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cornmeal and diced parsley. This will help thicken the chili and add a bit of freshness. If you notice the cornmeal clumping, just whisk it in until it breaks apart.
6. Let the chili simmer covered for the last 30 minutes. During this time, the flavor will deepen, and the texture will be perfect.
7. Once done, serve your Slow Cooker Beef Chili warm. Top it off with your favorite toppings, whether it’s cheese, sour cream, or diced avocado. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Recipe Tips about Slow Cooker Beef Chili

Making Slow Cooker Beef Chili is straightforward, but here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish further.

• Storage: Make sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze any leftover chili for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: This chili pairs excellently with cornbread, rice, or even tortilla chips for a delightful crunch!
• Serving: For a fun twist, serve your Slow Cooker Beef Chili in bread bowls. This adds a unique presentation and keeps the meal cozy.
• Garnishing: Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for a burst of flavor and color!
• Adjusting Consistency: If your chili turns out too thick, you can always add a bit more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

Perfect Pairings for Slow Cooker Beef Chili

When it comes to enjoying Slow Cooker Beef Chili, the right accompaniments can make all the difference. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Side Dishes: Serve with warm cornbread, garlic bread, or even some buttery biscuits to soak up all the delicious chili.
• Salads: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chili.
• Occasions: This chili is perfect for game days, casual gatherings, or cozy family dinners. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Storage Tips: Leftover chili can be stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for later meals. It’s great for meal prep!
• Seasonal Pairings: In winter, enjoy it with a side of roasted vegetables. In the summer, pair it with a light cucumber salad for a balanced meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker Beef Chili is a dish that exemplifies warmth and comfort. Its rich flavors and the satisfaction of a slow-cooked meal make it a favorite for gatherings or cozy nights in. I encourage you to try this easy recipe, as I promise it will soon become a staple in your home. Enjoy every delicious bite and share it with those you love!

Slow Cooker Beef Chili

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Beef Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms you from the inside out. Packed with tender beef and a perfect blend of spices, it's the ideal choice for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Make it tonight for a meal that everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 hours hrs

Total Time 5 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Wooden Spoon
• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Saucepan

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb Beef Chuck Roast or Top Round Steak, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Red Bell Pepper diced
• ½ Onion diced
• 30 oz Chili Beans canned
• 15 oz Tomato Sauce
• 15 oz Diced Tomatoes canned
• 2 cups Beef Broth
• 2 tbsp Chili Powder
• 1 tbsp Sugar
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1 tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• 2 tbsp Cornmeal
• 1 tbsp Diced Parsley

Instructions

 

• Season beef chunks with salt and pepper. Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear beef on all sides until browned, about 3 to 5 minutes.
• Place the seared beef, diced bell pepper, diced onion, chili beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a slow cooker and stir to combine. Cover and cook on LOW heat for 5 to 6 hours.
• About 30 minutes prior to finishing, stir in the cornmeal and diced parsley. Note: the cornmeal might want to clump, just whisk it in the chili till it breaks apart. Let simmer covered for the final 30 minutes.
• Top with your favorite chili toppings - cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, etc. Enjoy!

Notes

• Tip: For this recipe, I used a canned chili bean that comes in a seasoned tomato sauce, so I did not drain the beans prior to adding to the slow cooker. If you're using any other sort of canned bean, you can drain the liquid prior to adding.

Keyword Comfort Food Recipe, Easy Chili Recipe, hearty chili, Slow Cooker Beef Chili

Previous PostCrispy Sugar Snap Peas

Next Post Healthy Carrot Muffins

Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.