Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Texas Chili Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Texas Chili recipe.
I can’t get enough of how simple it’s to prepare—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
The rich flavors meld beautifully over hours, creating a comforting bowl that’s perfect for any occasion.
Plus, it’s so versatile; I can customize the heat and toppings to suit my taste.
Whether it’s a chilly night or a gathering with friends, this chili always hits the spot and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Texas Chili
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal without too much fuss, this Slow Cooker Texas Chili recipe is a true lifesaver. I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day? The ingredients are straightforward, but they come together to create a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for those cozy nights in or when you have friends over.
So, let’s explore what you need to gather for this flavorful feast.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Texas Chili
- 2 1/2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 (4 1/2 ounce) cans chopped green chilies, drained
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 3/4 cup chili powder
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1-2 tablespoons green hot sauce (optional)
- Sliced green onions (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro (for topping)
- Sour cream (for topping)
Now, before you rush off to the grocery store, consider your taste preferences and any dietary needs. For instance, if you’re not a fan of beef, you could easily swap it out for turkey or even go vegetarian with some hearty beans and veggies.
And as for the heat, feel free to adjust the chili powder and hot sauce to your liking. Maybe you like it mild, or perhaps you want to set your taste buds ablaze—this recipe is forgiving like that.
Oh, and don’t forget those toppings! They really elevate the dish. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to make some chili magic.
How to Make Slow Cooker Texas Chili
Alright, let’s explore the delicious world of Slow Cooker Texas Chili! First up, you’ll need to grab that 2 1/2 lbs of beef chuck. The key here is to cut it into 2-inch cubes—don’t stress too much about making them perfect; just aim for roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Now, toss those cubes into a large bowl with 2 tablespoons of packed light brown sugar and a pinch of salt. Think of this as the sweet start to your chili adventure. Give it a gentle mix, and let’s move on to the browning part, which is really where the magic begins.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering and ready, add the beef in batches—this helps to get that glorious golden-brown crust without overcrowding the pan. We’re talking about 4 to 5 minutes here for each batch, so be patient.
Once browned, transfer the beef to a 5 to 6 quart slow cooker. Now, reduce the heat on your skillet to medium and toss in that finely chopped small onion. Cook it until it’s soft, about 5 minutes, and then add in 5 smashed garlic cloves, 2 cans of drained chopped green chilies, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, and 3/4 cup of chili powder.
Just imagine how amazing your kitchen smells right now. Cook these together for 3 minutes to let those flavors mingle, and then pour in 1 1/2 cups of water along with 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Simmer this for about 3 minutes, scraping up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—this is pure flavor gold.
Transfer everything to the slow cooker, give it a stir, cover it up, and let it do its thing on low for 7 hours.
Once you’ve survived the wait—maybe catch up on that book you’ve been meaning to read or binge-watch your favorite show—it’s time to finish off your chili. After those 7 glorious hours, add in the remaining 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and, if you like it spicy, 1-2 tablespoons of green hot sauce.
Stir it all together, and voilà! You’re ready to serve. Don’t forget to top your chili with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream. Trust me, those toppings take this dish to a whole new level.
Slow Cooker Texas Chili Substitutions & Variations
Exploring substitutions and variations for Slow Cooker Texas Chili can take your dish to new heights, allowing you to tailor it to your taste.
If you prefer a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. For a vegetarian twist, use beans, lentils, or extra veggies.
You can switch up the spices too; smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a unique flair. If you like it smokier, consider adding chipotle peppers.
Finally, don’t hesitate to adjust the heat level with different hot sauces or peppers.
Get creative—your chili can be as unique as you are!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Texas Chili
Serving Slow Cooker Texas Chili opens up a world of delicious pairing possibilities.
I love to serve it with warm, buttery cornbread for a comforting meal. You can’t go wrong with a side of nachos, topped with cheese and jalapeños, either.
If you prefer something lighter, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the chili’s richness perfectly.
For drinks, a cold beer or a revitalizing iced tea enhances the experience.
Don’t forget toppings like sour cream, green onions, and fresh cilantro to elevate each bowl.
Enjoy experimenting with these sides to find your perfect combination!
Additional Tips & Notes
While making Slow Cooker Texas Chili, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind to guarantee the best flavor and texture.
First, don’t skip browning the beef; it adds depth. I suggest using a mix of different chili powders for complexity. If you want extra heat, try adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
For a thicker chili, mash some beans into the mix. Let it sit for a bit after cooking; the flavors meld beautifully!
Finally, don’t forget the toppings—fresh cilantro, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream elevate the dish. Enjoy every hearty bowl!