Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili

Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili is a rich, bold, and hearty chili made without beans, staying true to the Lone Star State tradition. With tender chunks of beef simmered low and slow in a spicy, smoky chili sauce, this dish is the ultimate comfort food perfect for game day, cold nights, or any time you’re craving serious flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Texas Flavor – No beans, just beef and deep, smoky spices.
• Hands-Off Cooking – Let your slow cooker do the work while flavors develop over hours.
• Incredibly Tender Beef – Slow cooking transforms chuck roast into melt-in-your-mouth bites.
• Great for a Crowd – Ideal for feeding a family or game-day guests.
• Freezer-Friendly – Makes excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth
• Dried ancho chiles
• Dried guajillo chiles
• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
• Optional toppings: chopped onions, shredded cheese, jalapeños, sour cream

Directions

1. Prep the Dried Chiles – Remove stems and seeds, then toast chiles in a dry skillet until fragrant. Soak in hot water for 15 minutes, then blend with some beef broth into a smooth paste.
2. Sear the Beef – (Optional but recommended) In a hot skillet, brown the beef cubes in batches for added flavor.
3. Add to Slow Cooker – Place beef, chile paste, onion, garlic, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and remaining beef broth into the slow cooker.
4. Slow Cook – Cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until beef is fork-tender and the sauce has thickened.
5. Finish with Vinegar – Stir in vinegar before serving to balance the flavors.
6. Serve Hot – Top with your favorite garnishes and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 7–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
• Total Time: Approximately 8 hours

Variations

• Spicier Version – Add chipotle peppers or extra chili powder for more heat.
• Beer-Infused – Replace some of the broth with a dark beer for added depth.
• Tomato-Free – Skip the tomato paste for an even more traditional Texas take.
• Ground Beef Option – Use ground beef for a quicker, less chunky version.
• Add Chocolate – Stir in a small piece of dark chocolate or a spoonful of cocoa powder for subtle richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cool and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What makes Texas chili different?

Texas chili traditionally contains no beans or tomatoes and focuses on meat and chili peppers for flavor.

Can I use ground beef instead of chunks?

Yes, but the texture and richness from cubed chuck roast are more authentic and flavorful.

Do I have to sear the meat first?

No, but searing adds deeper flavor to the final dish. It’s worth the extra step if you have time.

Can I make this chili on the stovetop?

Yes, simmer covered on low for 2.5–3 hours, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender.

What are ancho and guajillo chiles?

They are dried Mexican peppers with rich, smoky, and mildly spicy flavors, perfect for chili.

Is it spicy?

It has a medium kick, but you can adjust the heat by adding or reducing chili powder and spicy peppers.

Can I add beans if I want?

Sure! While it’s not traditional, feel free to stir in kidney or black beans if you prefer.

What toppings go well with Texas chili?

Chopped onions, shredded cheese, jalapeños, cilantro, sour cream, and crushed tortilla chips are all great.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, and it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.

What can I serve with Texas chili?

Cornbread, rice, baked potatoes, or tortilla chips are all delicious pairings.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili is a bold and authentic dish that celebrates the heart of Texas cooking. With tender beef, smoky chiles, and a no-bean attitude, this chili is as hearty as it gets. Whether you’re warming up on a cold night or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers unbeatable flavor with minimal effort. Try it once and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

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