Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili

There’s something deeply satisfying about a hearty bowl of Texas-style chili, especially when it’s been slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe delivers bold, smoky flavors and tender beef chunks that melt in your mouth, all without needing hours of stovetop attention. Using a slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to develop those rich, complex flavors that define authentic Texas chili, with simple ingredients and minimal prep.

Unlike many chili recipes that rely heavily on beans, Texas-style chili focuses on the meat and seasoning, creating a robust, intense dish full of smoky cumin, fiery chili powder, and the subtle sweetness of brown sugar. The addition of fire-roasted tomatoes and green chiles adds layers of texture and heat, making this chili both comforting and exciting to eat.

Whether you’re hosting a game day, feeding a family, or craving a satisfying weeknight dinner, this slow cooker chili recipe offers a hands-off approach with maximum flavor. Top it off with classic garnishes like cheddar cheese and sour cream, and you have a dish that’s sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hands-Off Cooking – Set it and forget it, thanks to the slow cooker.
2. Rich, Authentic Flavor – Bold Texan spices and fire-roasted tomatoes create depth.
3. Tender Beef – Slow cooking makes the chuck roast melt-in-your-mouth tender.
4. Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples combine for an impressive, flavorful meal.
5. Customizable Toppings – Add your favorite garnishes to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• Avocado or vegetable oil
• Beef chuck roast, fat trimmed and cut into cubes
• Salt
• Yellow onion, finely diced
• Garlic, minced
• Brown sugar
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder
• Canned green chiles
• Crushed fire-roasted tomatoes

For Serving / Toppings:

• Green onions
• Sour cream
• Cheddar cheese
• Chips or cornbread

Variations

• Add Beans: Include kidney or pinto beans for a heartier chili.
• Smokier Flavor: Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder for extra smokiness.
• Spicier Heat: Increase the amount of green chiles or add fresh jalapeños.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute beef with mushrooms and add more beans.
• Beer Chili: Replace some of the liquid with a dark beer for depth.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, then transfer them to the slow cooker.

Step 2

In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant.

Step 3

Add the brown sugar, cumin, and chili powder to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for about 1 minute.

Step 4

Transfer the onion and spice mixture to the slow cooker with the beef.

Step 5

Add salt, green chiles, and crushed fire-roasted tomatoes to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until beef is tender.

Step 7

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or chili powder as desired.

Step 8

Serve hot with your favorite toppings such as chopped green onions, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chips or cornbread.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Brown the beef well for enhanced flavor and color.
• Trim excess fat from the meat to prevent greasiness.
• Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky taste.
• Stir occasionally if possible to blend flavors evenly.
• Adjust salt and spice levels to your personal preference.

How to Serve

• Ladle chili into bowls topped with sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
• Serve with crunchy tortilla chips or warm cornbread on the side.
• Pair with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea.
• Great as a filling for baked potatoes or nachos.
• Garnish with jalapeño slices for an extra kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze leftover chili in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Chuck roast is ideal, but stew meat or brisket can also work well.

2. Do I have to brown the beef first?

Browning adds flavor but can be skipped if short on time.

3. Can I make this chili without a slow cooker?

Yes, simmer on the stovetop for 2–3 hours until beef is tender.

4. Is this chili spicy?

It has moderate heat; adjust chili powder and green chiles to taste.

5. Can I add beans?

Traditional Texas chili doesn’t use beans, but you can add them if you like.

6. How thick should the chili be?

It should be thick and hearty but still saucy. Simmer longer if too thin.

7. Can I prepare the ingredients the night before?

Yes, prepping the meat and vegetables ahead saves time.

8. What can I use instead of avocado oil?

Vegetable, canola, or olive oil work well.

9. How many servings does this recipe make?

About 6–8 servings depending on portion size.

10. Can I add other vegetables?

Bell peppers or corn can be added for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili is a comforting, flavorful classic that’s perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Its rich spices, tender beef, and smoky undertones bring a true taste of Texas right to your table with minimal effort. Easy to customize and even easier to love, this chili will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Set your slow cooker, and let this hearty chili do all the work for you!

Print