If you’ve ever wanted a hearty, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out and fills your kitchen with amazing aromas all day long, then this Crock Pot Beef Chuck Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender chunks of beef chuck, a symphony of beans, vibrant bell peppers, and a perfect blend of spices, this chili simmers slowly to develop deep flavors that will wow your taste buds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a satisfying bowl of homemade chili, this recipe makes the process effortless and the result unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, contributing its own unique flair to the taste, texture, or color of the chili. From the juicy beef chuck cubes to the bright pops of red and green bell peppers, every component works together to create a balanced and flavor-packed dish.
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes: The star protein, providing rich, tender meat that melts in your mouth after slow cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the beef and adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the base of the chili.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant and slightly pungent kick that complements the spices.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Offers a colorful sweetness and slight crunch.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds freshness and a mild bitterness to balance the chili.
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed: For creamy texture and hearty protein.
- 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds color contrast and extra fiber.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Creates a rich, tangy sauce that carries all the spices.
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the chili.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The essential seasoning that brings warmth and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin: Adds an earthy, slightly smoky background note.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky depth that makes the chili irresistible.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a subtle herbaceous aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste): Gives a spicy kick—you can dial it up or down depending on your heat preference.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and a savory boost.
- 1 cup corn (optional): Adds sweetness and bursts of texture for a playful twist.
- 1 lime, juiced (for serving): Brightens the chili with a fresh, zesty finish.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds vibrant color and a herbaceous note at the end.
- Sour cream (for serving, optional): Balances the spice with creamy coolness.
- Shredded cheese (for serving, optional): Melts beautifully on top for extra indulgence.
How to Make Crock Pot Beef Chuck Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef Chuck Cubes
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the beef chuck cubes in batches so they develop beautiful caramelized edges. This step locks in the meat’s juiciness and creates delicious flavor foundations that will take your chili to the next level. Set the browned beef aside once each batch is done.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the finely chopped onion and diced red and green bell peppers. Sauté until these vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute or two—this gentle cooking awakens their aromas and prepares them to blend seamlessly with the rest of the chili ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Into your crock pot, add the browned beef, sautéed vegetables, drained kidney and black beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and all of the spices—including chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and, if you’re using it, the corn. This colorful mix is bursting with flavor and ready to transform.
Step 4: Mix and Cook Low and Slow
Give everything a good stir so all those wonderful ingredients start mingling. Secure the crock pot lid and cook the chili on low for 6 to 8 hours, or if you’re pressed for time, choose high for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking tenderizes the beef chuck beautifully and allows all those spices and flavors to develop fully into a rich, hearty chili.
Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving
Once the cooking is done, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if needed—sometimes a little extra salt or a touch more cayenne makes all the difference. Stir in the fresh lime juice for a bright pop of acidity that lifts the whole dish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Dish out your chili while it’s piping hot and prepare for a comforting meal that hits all the right notes: savory, spicy, fresh, and utterly satisfying.
How to Serve Crock Pot Beef Chuck Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The perfect garnish changes a good meal into a memorable one. Top your Crock Pot Beef Chuck Chili Recipe with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness. Add a dollop of sour cream to mellow the heat, and don’t forget a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese to add creamy richness. These toppings enhance both the flavor and presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
Chili is wonderfully versatile with sides. Serve your chili alongside warm cornbread for a classic combo, or opt for a fresh green salad to add some crunch and balance. For a more filling meal, steamed rice or tortilla chips make great partners—perfect for scooping up every flavorful bite of chili.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting a casual gathering, consider serving your chili in mini bread bowls or over baked potatoes for a hearty, fun twist. You can also transform leftovers into loaded chili nachos or chili-topped stuffed peppers. The Crock Pot Beef Chuck Chili Recipe is a canvas ready for your creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chili is almost as good as freshly made, sometimes even better because the flavors deepen overnight. Store your chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep everything evenly warmed.
Freezing
This Crock Pot Beef Chuck Chili Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving some room for expansion. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, warm your chili slowly over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching and to revive that rich texture. Adding a splash of broth or water may help loosen the chili if it has thickened too much after storage.
FAQs
Can I make this chili spicier or milder?
Absolutely! The recipe includes cayenne pepper, which you can adjust to your desired heat level. If you prefer mild chili, reduce or omit the cayenne. For more heat, add extra chili powder or a pinch of chili flakes.
What cuts of beef work best for this chili?
Beef chuck is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. Avoid lean cuts as they can dry out; chuck’s marbling adds richness and keeps the meat juicy throughout cooking.
Can I skip the searing step to save time?
While you can skip searing, it really adds depth of flavor and enhances the texture of the beef. If in a hurry, do your best to brown the cubed beef quickly—it’s worth the extra few minutes.
Is it necessary to use both kidney and black beans?
Not at all! Using both types adds variety in texture and color, but you can use just one kind or even substitute with pinto beans depending on your preference or pantry stock.
How do I store leftovers for maximum flavor?
Store chili in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. Flavor often improves after a day or two, so reheating leftovers can be even more delicious than the first serving.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Beef Chuck Chili Recipe is one of those true kitchen treasures you’ll want to make again and again. Its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and slow-cooked magic create a cozy meal perfect for any day of the year. Don’t hesitate to dive in, experiment with your favorite toppings, and share it with loved ones. Trust me—once you try this chili, it’ll quickly become a go-to comfort food in your home!
Print
Crock Pot Beef Chuck Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 7h 0m
- Total Time: 7h 20m
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Crock Pot Beef Chuck Chili features tender, slow-cooked beef chunks simmered with a robust blend of beans, tomatoes, and spices. Perfect for a comforting meal, this chili combines smoky, spicy, and savory flavors balanced with fresh lime and optional toppings like sour cream and shredded cheese.
Ingredients
Beef and Oil
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
Beans and Tomatoes
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Liquids and Extras
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup corn (optional)
- 1 lime, juiced (for serving)
Garnishes (Optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the beef chuck cubes in batches, about 5 minutes per batch, until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: In the crock pot, add the browned beef, sautéed vegetables, kidney beans, black beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, pepper, beef broth, and corn if using.
- Mix and Cook: Stir all ingredients to combine well and cover with the crock pot lid.
- Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until beef is tender and flavors meld.
- Adjust Seasonings and Lime Juice: Taste the chili, adjust seasoning if needed, and stir in lime juice just before serving.
- Serve: Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro, and optionally top with sour cream and shredded cheese.
Notes
- Searing the beef before adding it to the crock pot develops deeper flavor and improves texture.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to desired spice level.
- Adding corn is optional and adds sweetness and texture contrast.
- For thicker chili, cook longer or reduce liquid slightly.
- Leftovers reheat well and flavors improve after a day.
