If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that effortlessly fills your home with mouthwatering aromas, this Slow Cooker Steak Chili Recipe is your new best friend. The tender chunks of stew meat simmered alongside rich tomatoes, flavorful chili beans, and perfectly balanced spices create a savory stew that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This recipe is simple, satisfying, and just waiting to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Slow Cooker Steak Chili Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen not just for flavor, but also for texture and color, combining to create a chili that’s both vibrant and deeply satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lb stew meat: Cut into bite-sized pieces for perfect tenderness after slow cooking.
- 1 Tbsp oil: Helps to brown the meat, locking in flavor and adding texture.
- 2 (14.5-oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds a bright, tangy base that’s both juicy and savory.
- 2 (15-oz) cans chili beans, undrained: Brings hearty creaminess and protein, essential for that authentic chili feel.
- ¼ cup chili powder: The perfect spice blend to infuse the dish with warm, subtle heat and complexity.
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth of flavor without the fuss of fresh chopping.
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Adding this step might seem small, but browning the stew meat is essential for developing a rich, robust flavor that will carry through the entire dish. Cook the meat until it’s lightly browned on all sides—this caramelization is what makes your chili truly shine.
Step 2: Transfer Meat to the Slow Cooker
Once your meat is beautifully browned, transfer those flavorful cubes to a 6-quart slow cooker. This easy move sets the stage for slow-cooked perfection while allowing all those delicious browned bits to work their magic.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices
Next, add the undrained diced tomatoes and chili beans directly into the slow cooker right on top of the meat. Sprinkle in the chili powder and dried minced onion flakes, then give everything a good stir to mix all those wonderful flavors together evenly. This combination ensures every bite bursts with taste.
Step 4: Let It Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 6 to 8 hours. The long cooking time gently tenderizes the stew meat, allowing the spices to fully meld together with the tomatoes and beans, resulting in a chili that’s deeply flavorful, rich, and tender. Trust me, the wait is well worth it.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Steak Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Top your Slow Cooker Steak Chili Recipe with a handful of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and freshly chopped green onions to add creaminess and a fresh, zesty contrast. A sprinkle of cilantro or sliced jalapeños can also add a bright punch and a bit of heat if you like things spicy.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, which soaks up every bit of the savory sauce, or a crisp green salad that provides a refreshing balance. For a heartier meal, serve alongside steamed rice or tortilla chips for some added crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Turn your chili into a loaded baked potato topping or even stuff it into warm pita pockets for a fun twist. Layering your chili over nachos with melted cheese and avocado slices also makes for a vibrant party appetizer everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chili is a gift that keeps on giving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to develop, making your leftovers taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Steak Chili Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to three months. Just be sure to cool the chili completely before freezing to preserve the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat chili gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings, covering loosely to prevent splatters. Add a splash of water or broth if it looks a little thick after refrigeration.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! While stew meat is perfect for slow cooking, you can substitute chuck roast or even beef brisket cut into chunks. Just ensure the meat is suitable for slow, low-temperature cooking to achieve that tender texture.
Is it okay to skip browning the meat?
Technically yes, but browning the meat adds a depth of flavor you won’t get otherwise. It brings out a rich, caramelized taste that elevates the chili. If you’re pressed for time, it’s an optional but highly recommended step.
How spicy is this Slow Cooker Steak Chili Recipe?
The chili powder provides a mild to medium heat level, perfect for most palates. Feel free to add extra chili powder or diced jalapeños if you want more kick!
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
You can! Swap the steak for hearty vegetables like mushrooms or plant-based meat substitutes, and use vegetable broth instead. Adjust the spices as needed to keep that delicious chili flavor intact.
Will this chili thicken after cooking?
Yes. The slow cooking helps reduce the liquid slightly, and the beans naturally thicken the chili. If it’s thinner than you like, simply cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or stir in a little cornstarch slurry to thicken.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve tried this Slow Cooker Steak Chili Recipe, you’ll see how incredibly easy it is to make a wholesome, flavorful meal that comforts and delights. From the tender steak to the perfectly spiced sauce, this recipe has all the elements of a classic chili done right. So go ahead, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready for some serious cozy dinner vibes that are sure to impress family and friends alike!
Print
Slow Cooker Steak Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and flavorful Slow Cooker Steak Chili recipe that combines tender stew meat with savory tomatoes, beans, and chili spices. Perfect for an easy, comforting meal that simmers all day to develop rich, deep flavors.
Ingredients
Meat & Oil
- 2 lb stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 Tbsp oil
Canned Goods
- 2 (14.5-oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 (15-oz) cans chili beans, undrained
Spices & Herbs
- ¼ cup chili powder
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stew meat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the bite-sized pieces are lightly browned on all sides. This step helps to seal in flavor and improve the chili’s texture.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the browned meat cubes to a 6-quart slow cooker to prepare for slow cooking.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in two undrained cans of diced tomatoes, two undrained cans of chili beans, ¼ cup of chili powder, and 2 tablespoons of dried minced onion flakes. Stir everything well to evenly distribute the spices and ingredients.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. Slow cooking will tenderize the meat thoroughly and meld all the bold flavors together into a rich, comforting chili.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, uncover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to reduce liquid.
- This chili stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes perfectly for up to 3 months.
- Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream, or cornbread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 0 minutes
- Category: Chili
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
