Slow Cooker Texas Chili Recipe

Slow Cooker Texas Chili

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort, look no further than Slow Cooker Texas Chili. This delightful dish combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a medley of spices to create a comforting chili that is perfect for any occasion. With just a little prep work and the magic of a slow cooker, you can come home to a warm, delicious meal that will please your whole family.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Slow Cooker Texas Chili is not just easy, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Utilizing a slow cooker means that you can set it in the morning and forget about it until dinnertime. The long cooking time allows all the flavors to blend beautifully, resulting in a rich and flavorful chili. It’s also a forgiving recipe, so if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can feel confident in your cooking skills. Plus, this chili is perfect for gatherings or meal prep—it freezes well and tastes even better the next day.

How to Make Slow Cooker Texas Chili

Making this comforting dish is easy! Follow these simple steps and enjoy some delicious Texas chili.

Ingredients:

2 pounds beef chuck roast (cut into 1/2 inch cubes)
1 medium white onion (diced)
2 medium red bell peppers (diced)
2 large carrots (diced)
2 celery ribs (sliced)
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (7 ounce) can diced green chiles
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons lime juice
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions:

Sear beef cubes: Heat a large skillet over high heat. Sear the beef cubes on all four sides, about 60 seconds per side, until browned. Transfer the seared beef directly into the slow cooker.
Add remaining ingredients to slow cooker: Add the diced onion, red bell peppers, carrots, and sliced celery to the slow cooker. Pour in Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), diced green chiles, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
Add seasonings: Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Add cornstarch, let chili thicken: About 30 minutes before the chili finishes cooking, remove 1/2 cup of liquid from the slow cooker and place it into a small bowl. Whisk in cornstarch until smooth. Pour the slurry back into the slow cooker, stirring to combine. Continue cooking for the remaining 30 minutes to allow the chili to thicken.
Stir in lime juice: Stir in lime juice just before serving.
Garnish and serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro, if desired.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Texas Chili

Serve your Slow Cooker Texas Chili hot, in bowls. Top it with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor and color. This chili pairs perfectly with crusty bread or cornbread on the side, making for a complete meal.

How to Store Slow Cooker Texas Chili

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Texas Chili

Adjust the spices to your taste. If you like it spicier, consider adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños.
Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or zucchini.
To save time, skip searing the beef. Just add it raw to the slow cooker, but remember that searing adds flavor.

Variation

For a vegetarian option, use lentils or beans instead of beef, and substitute vegetable broth for beef broth. You can add more vegetables to boost the nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make Slow Cooker Texas Chili ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chili a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheating it will also enhance the flavors.

2. What can I serve with Texas Chili?
This chili goes well with cornbread, rice, or even tortilla chips. You can also serve it as a topping for baked potatoes.

3. Is this chili spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted. If you prefer mild chili, use less chili powder and remove the green chiles. You can add hot sauce later if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Texas Chili!