As the sun dips below the horizon and the chill of the evening sets in, there’s nothing quite like the rich, comforting aroma of a slow cooker stew meat chili filling your home. I discovered this slow cooker gem on a particularly hectic day when dinner seemed like an impossible task. Just a little prep and let the magic happen! This dish comes together effortlessly, marrying tender beef stew meat with hearty beans, zingy tomatoes, and a signature blend of spices that creates a symphony of warm flavors.
Perfect for both weekends with family and busy weekdays when time is tight, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that transforms simple ingredients into a feast. You’ll love how the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully while you go about your day. So grab your favorite bowl, and let’s dive into a recipe that promises not only satisfaction but also the joy of home-cooked comfort food.
Why You’ll Adore Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili
Effortless Cooking: Just set and forget, letting the slow cooker work its magic while you enjoy your day.
Heartwarming Aroma: As it cooks, your home will fill with inviting smells that bring everyone to the table.
Rich Flavor Fusion: The blend of beef, beans, and spices creates a depth of flavor that’s both satisfying and unforgettable.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, this chili serves many and pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortillas for an interactive dining experience.
Nourishing Comfort: For busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this hearty bowl is guaranteed to warm your heart and soul.
For more delicious, hearty meals you can whip up in no time, check out our selection of slow cooker recipes.
Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili Ingredients
For the Stew
- Beef Stew Meat – Use 1-inch cubes cut from chuck roast or round for maximum tenderness; substitute with cubed chuck roast if necessary.
- Chili Powder – Essential for depth of flavor; choose your favorite blend for added personality.
- Ground Cumin – Complements the chili powder, enhancing that savory profile that makes slow cooker stew meat chili irresistible.
- Vegetable Oil (or Canola Oil) – Used for browning the meat to develop a rich, mouthwatering flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Coats the beef to create a thick, luscious sauce perfect for comfort food.
For the Base
- Diced Tomatoes (28 oz) – Forms the chili’s foundation, adding acidity and moisture; San Marzano tomatoes are a great quality choice.
- Garlic Cloves (minced) – Introduces aromatic depth, making every bite a delight to your senses.
- Large Onion (diced) – Adds natural sweetness; opt for white or yellow onion for balanced flavors.
- Bell Pepper – Any color will do; it adds a touch of sweetness and extra texture.
For the Broth and Beans
- Beef Broth (1.75 cups) – Provides moisture; low-sodium options allow you to control the salt in your slow cooker stew meat chili.
- Kidney Beans (16 oz) – Rinse well before adding to reduce sodium; they’re perfect for heartiness and protein.
- Black Beans (16 oz) – Adds another layer of flavor and texture; rinsing is also recommended here.
For the Flavor Boost
- Barbecue Sauce (2 tbsp) – A hint of smokiness and sweetness creates a delightful balance with the spices.
- Brown Sugar (1.5 tbsp) – Helps to mellow the heat and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor harmony.
- Salt (0.75 tsp) – Vital for bringing out and enhancing all the wonderful flavors in your chili.
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – Brightens the dish when served, adding a pop of color and freshness.
This slow cooker stew meat chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience that fills your home with warmth and love!
How to Make Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili
Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This step is crucial for browning the meat and enhancing flavor.
Brown the Meat: Add the beef stew meat in batches, browning each piece for 3-5 minutes until golden on all sides. This develops a rich, deep flavor.
Toast Spices: Stir in chili powder and ground cumin with the browned meat, cooking for 1 minute. This toasting step brings out the spices’ aromatic qualities.
Coat with Flour: Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the meat mixture, stirring to create a light roux. This adds thickness to the chili’s sauce.
Transfer to Slow Cooker: Pour the entire meat mixture, including any flavorful browned bits, into the slow cooker. This ensures all those delicious flavors are in the final dish.
Add Base Ingredients: To the slow cooker, add diced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, drained kidney and black beans, beef broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and salt. Stir well to combine.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 6-8 hours until beef is fork-tender. The long cooking time melds all the flavors beautifully.
Adjust Consistency: After cooking, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the chili is too thick, stir in extra beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Optional: Serve with cornbread or tortillas for a delightful pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili?
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of chili, especially when paired with delightful accompaniments that elevate your meal experience.
Cornbread: Its sweet, buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the savory chili, making each bite a delightful adventure. Serve warm for the best enjoyment!
Flour Tortillas: Soft and chewy, these versatile wraps make it easy to scoop up your chili or enjoy it alongside. A fantastic way to engage everyone at the table!
Avocado Slices: Creamy and rich, fresh avocado enhances the chili’s flavors while adding a refreshing note. It’s a great way to introduce healthy fats to your meal.
Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar or creamy Monterey Jack melts beautifully over hot chili, creating a deliciously gooey texture and extra flavor.
Sour Cream: A dollop of tangy sour cream offers a cool counterbalance to the warmth of the chili, adding indulgence that rounds out the dish.
Garden Salad: A crisp salad, with vibrant greens and a light vinaigrette, provides a fresh contrast to the hearty chili, delivering balanced nutrition and flavors.
Beer or Cider: An ice-cold lager or a sparkling apple cider can refresh and cleanse the palate between spoonfuls, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Elevate your dinner table with these complementary options, and enjoy a feast that brings warmth, comfort, and joy to your home!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This will keep your slow cooker stew meat chili fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: Freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results; label them for easy identification later.
Reheating: To enjoy your chili again, warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth to help loosen it if it becomes too thick after freezing.
Make-Ahead Tips: Preparing this slow cooker stew meat chili in advance means you’ll have a hearty meal ready to go whenever you need it, perfect for busy days!
Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili Variations
Feel free to customize your chili and make it uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
Turkey Substitute: Use ground turkey or cubed turkey for a lighter yet equally delicious chili option.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the beef with mushrooms and add more beans for a hearty plant-based version.
Sweet Corn Addition: Stir in fresh or frozen corn for a pop of sweetness and delightful texture in every bite.
Spicy Kick: For a heat boost, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile.
Smoky Flavor: Replace barbecue sauce with smoked paprika or chipotle chili for an enticing smoky depth.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance the aromatic qualities, adding more complexity to the dish.
Creamy Touch: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before serving for an extra creamy version that melts in your mouth.
Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped carrots or zucchini for a nutrient boost and colorful medley of flavors.
Experiment with these variations to create the perfect slow cooker stew meat chili that suits your cravings and mood!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can chop the vegetables (onion and bell pepper) and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For even more convenience, consider browning the beef a day ahead; simply refrigerate the browned meat until you’re ready to assemble the chili. When it’s time to cook, combine everything in the slow cooker and let it do all the hard work! This chili can also be made and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months, preserving its rich flavors and tender texture. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens. Enjoy hearty comfort food with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili
Brown Meat First: Always brown the beef stew meat for a deep, rich flavor. Skipping this step can lead to a bland chili.
Mind the Broth: Avoid adding all the beef broth initially; start with half to prevent a watery texture. You can always add more later as needed.
Rinse Your Beans: Drain and rinse the canned beans before adding them to the slow cooker. This reduces sodium and improves flavor in your slow cooker stew meat chili.
Avoid Lid Lifting: Resist the temptation to stir or open the lid while cooking. Frequent lid lifting can prolong cooking time and toughen the meat.
Taste Test: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving, especially if your chili is too thick. A splash of broth can help achieve the perfect consistency.
Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili Recipe FAQs
What type of beef stew meat should I use?
For the best texture and flavor, look for beef stew meat cut into 1-inch cubes from chuck roast or round. If you can’t find pre-cut stew meat, cubed chuck roast is a great substitution that will still yield tender results.
How should I store leftover chili?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to maintain freshness, allowing you to enjoy the hearty flavors of your slow cooker stew meat chili for several days.
Can I freeze this chili?
Absolutely! Freeze your slow cooker stew meat chili in portions for up to 3 months. Simply ladle it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, label them with the date, and thaw in the fridge before reheating when you’re ready to indulge.
What if my chili turns out too thick?
If you find that your chili is thicker than desired, don’t fret! Simply add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating to reach your preferred consistency. Stir well and heat over medium until it loosens up nicely.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! When preparing your slow cooker stew meat chili, be mindful of any dietary restrictions. For those with allergies to beans or gluten, you could substitute the beans with extra vegetables like corn or zucchini, and use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
How do I know the best ripeness for ingredients like tomatoes and peppers?
Choosing ripe ingredients is key to delicious chili! Look for tomatoes that are firm with smooth skin and vibrant color, avoiding any with dark spots or blemishes. For bell peppers, opt for ones that are heavy for their size, with shiny skin and no blemishes, as these indicate freshness and flavor.
Slow Cooker Stew Meat Chili to Warm Your Heart and Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Brown the beef stew meat in batches, for 3-5 minutes until golden on all sides.
- Stir in chili powder and ground cumin, cooking for 1 minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the meat mixture, stirring to create a light roux.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add diced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, drained kidney and black beans, beef broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and salt. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours until beef is fork-tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more broth if too thick.
- Ladle chili into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.