Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Rich Flavors 🍲🔥
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, look no further than this slow cooker beef chili. This crockpot chili recipe combines tender chunks of beef with robust spices, savory vegetables, and a rich tomato base that simmers all day to perfection. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this easy chili recipe will become a family favorite. Plus, with its simple ingredients and set-it-and-forget-it method, you can enjoy hearty chili without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. Ingredients for Delicious Slow Cooker Beef Chili
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of chopped green onions. To explore more dinner ideas, check out this quick and easy dinner recipes.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Chili
Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cut the beef chuck into cubes for tender bites that cook evenly in the slow cooker.
Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
For a richer flavor, sear the beef cubes in a hot skillet until browned on all sides. This step adds depth to your chili but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Combine in the Slow Cooker
Place the beef, diced vegetables, diced tomatoes, beans, and spices into your Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker. Pour in the beef broth, and stir everything together to combine well.
Cook on Low for Rich Flavors
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process melds the flavors together, making the beef tender and the chili richly flavorful.
Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh cilantro. For an extra kick, try adding some chopped green onions or a squeeze of lime.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Chili
Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until steaming hot.
5. Serving Suggestions & Variations
This beef chili pairs perfectly with crusty bread, cornbread, or over a bed of rice. For a healthier twist, serve with a side of refreshing cucumber dill salad. Want more comforting dinner ideas? Explore this slow cooker Salisbury steak recipe.
6. FAQs About Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Chili
Can I make this chili with ground beef instead of chunks?
Absolutely! Use 1 to 1.5 pounds of ground beef. Brown it in a skillet first and then add directly to the slow cooker. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
What are good substitutions for beans for a low-carb or vegetarian version?
Replace beans with chopped vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cauliflower rice. For a vegetarian version, skip the beef and add hearty vegetables or plant-based protein.
How long does it take to prepare this slow cooker beef chili?
Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, with cooking times of 6-8 hours on low, making it one of the easiest crockpot chili recipes for busy days.
7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for quick side dishes or appetizers to serve alongside your chili. This versatile tool reduces cook time and enhances flavors.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures you have sturdy pots and pans for searing beef or prepping ingredients efficiently.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Add grilled veggies or side dishes to boost your chili meal, all in one appliance.
8. Conclusion
This hearty slow cooker beef chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings, potlucks, or busy weeknights. Its rich flavors, tender beef, and customizable toppings make it a meal everyone will love. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a go-to recipe to keep in your culinary arsenal. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl of chili that will become a family staple!
9. Final Tips & Enjoy Your Delicious Chili!
Remember to adjust spices according to your taste and experiment with add-ins like jalapeños, chocolate, or cinnamon for a unique twist. Don’t forget to share your bowl with friends and family, or freeze leftovers for quick future meals. Happy cooking!
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Hearty Slow Cooker Beef Chili with Rich Flavors
A slow-cooked beef chili recipe that combines tender beef, flavorful spices, and hearty beans, perfect for a comforting meal.
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained
- 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Place beef stew meat in the slow cooker.
- Add diced onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, beans, spices, salt, and pepper.
- Pour beef broth over the ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
- Stir well and serve hot garnished with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- You can add a splash of hot sauce for extra spice.
- Serve with cornbread or rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg