Craving a hearty, satisfying dinner that practically makes itself? This Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Chili is a perfect solution for your meal prep dinner recipes. You will love how easy it is to throw together and how delicious it tastes after simmering all day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Beef Chuck Roast: You can also use beef brisket or stew meat.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes work well too.
- Beans: Kidney beans and black beans are used; feel free to use your favorite chili beans.
- Chili Powder: Adjust to your spice preference.
- Onion & Garlic: Essential for flavor; use powders if fresh isn’t available.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (on low) or 4 hours (on high)
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450
- Tools Needed: Slow cooker (6-quart or larger), large spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef
Season your beef chuck roast chunks generously with salt and black pepper. This step builds flavor right from the start. You’re setting the foundation for a delicious meal prep dinner recipe.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned beef into your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, diced green chiles, and beef broth.
3. Add Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Stir everything gently to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the beef is mostly submerged.
4. Cook the Chili
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the beef to be incredibly tender and easy to shred. This slow cooking process makes it an ideal meal prep dinner recipe.
5. Shred the Beef
Once the beef is cooked through and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it into the chili.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh cilantro. This hearty chili is now ready to enjoy or portion out for your meal prep.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a bell pepper (any color), diced, at the beginning with the onion.
- Stir in a can of corn (drained) during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a touch of sweetness.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño with the other vegetables.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you sear the beef before adding it to the slow cooker?
Yes, searing the beef chunks in a hot pan before adding them to the slow cooker can add an extra layer of flavor. It creates a richer, more complex taste.
What if my chili is too thin?
If your chili is too thin, you can remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, then stir it into the chili and cook for another 15-30 minutes.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
You can adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the beef and beef broth, and instead using vegetable broth and adding extra beans or lentils.
How can I make this chili spicier?
To make your chili spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a chopped jalapeño, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce with the other ingredients. You can also increase the amount of chili powder.
Is this recipe good for freezing?
Absolutely! This Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Chili freezes exceptionally well, making it an excellent meal prep dinner recipe. Just ensure it cools completely before freezing in airtight containers.
What side dishes pair well with this chili?
Cornbread, rice, or a simple side salad are fantastic complements to this hearty chili. You can also serve it over baked potatoes or pasta.