If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself, this Easy Crockpot Steak Chili Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender chunks of beef stew meat with a rich blend of spices, smoky paprika, and fresh ingredients simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. The result? A bowl of chili that is deep, comforting, and bursting with bold flavors, making it the perfect dish to warm you up any day of the week. This recipe is a true gem for anyone who loves a satisfying, easy-to-make meal without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Easy Crockpot Steak Chili Recipe is in its simple, high-quality ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each item plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, from the tender beef and smoky spices to the rich tomato base and the fresh, zesty garnishes. You’re going to love how straightforward yet flavorful this chili turns out!
- Black pepper (1 tsp): Adds a gentle kick and depth of spice.
- Kosher salt (2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors beautifully without overwhelming.
- Beef stew meat, 2 lb (cut into 1-inch chunks): The star protein providing tender, juicy bites.
- Olive oil, 2 tbsp: Perfect for searing the beef to lock in flavor.
- Kidney beans, 14 oz (drained and rinsed): Adds hearty texture and protein.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Brings a fragrant Mediterranean touch.
- Ground cumin (1 tbsp): Freshly ground if possible, for earthy warmth.
- Smoked paprika (1 tbsp): Introduces that irresistible smoky depth.
- Brown sugar (2 tbsp): Balances acidity and adds subtle sweetness.
- Crushed tomatoes, 28 oz: Choose San Marzano for rich, vibrant flavor.
- Beef broth, 1 cup: Builds a savory base and adds moisture.
- Yellow onion, 1 large (diced into ½-inch pieces): Offers natural sweetness and body.
- Tomato sauce, 30 oz: Creates a velvety smooth texture.
- Garlic cloves, 5 (minced): Boosts the aromatic and savory notes.
- Tomato paste, 5.5 oz: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the chili.
- Chili powder, ¼ cup: The classic chili heat and complexity.
- Jalapeño peppers (sliced): For added fresh heat—adjust to your spice tolerance.
- Green onions (chopped): Fresh, crunchy garnish to brighten every bite.
- Sour cream: For creaminess and to temper the spice.
- Tortilla chips: Crunchy contrast and perfect for dipping.
- Cornbread: Classic side that soaks up every bit of chili goodness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional but recommended): Adds richness and gooey texture.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Steak Chili Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Beef
Start by seasoning the beef chunks generously with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef in batches until each piece is beautifully browned on all sides. This step is crucial because it locks in the juices and adds a caramelized depth that elevates the chili’s flavor tremendously. Don’t skip it!
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer the seared beef to your crockpot. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, brown sugar, and pour in the beef broth. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients without breaking up the meat. This layering ensures every bite gets a perfect balance of spices and textures.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and cook the chili on low for about 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and flavors meld together beautifully. The slow simmer allows the meat to soak up the spices and become melt-in-your-mouth tender. If you like a thicker consistency, remove the lid for the last 20 minutes to let some liquid evaporate.
Step 4: Add Fresh Heat and Final Touches
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the sliced jalapeño peppers to add a fresh layer of heat. Taste the chili and adjust seasonings if needed — sometimes a little extra salt or a pinch of sugar can bring it just right.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Steak Chili Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches make this chili irresistible. Dollop a spoonful of creamy sour cream on top, sprinkle chopped green onions for a fresh crunch, and don’t forget a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese if you’re feeling decadent. These garnishes not only add flavor but also color and texture contrast that take your bowl of chili from good to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with classic sides like warm cornbread that soaks up every spicy and savory drop. Crunchy tortilla chips are also perfect for scooping or adding a crispy bite. For a heartier meal, a simple salad or roasted vegetables complement the rich chili without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the bowl! You can serve this chili over baked potatoes for a loaded, satisfying dish. Alternatively, fill fried tortillas or taco shells with chili, cheese, and your favorite toppings for a fun chili taco night. It even makes a fantastic filling for stuffed bell peppers or nachos if you’re feeling adventurous.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making leftovers arguably even better the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
This Easy Crockpot Steak Chili Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months and makes an amazing meal prep option for busy weeks.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to heat in intervals and stir between to ensure even warming without drying out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Absolutely! Ground beef works great in this recipe, though the texture will be different. Sear it just like the stew meat for added flavor, and adjust the cooking time accordingly since ground beef cooks faster.
Is it possible to make this chili in a regular pot on the stove?
You can definitely make this chili on the stovetop! Brown the meat and then let everything simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally until the meat is tender and flavors meld, adding broth as needed.
How spicy is this chili, and can I adjust the heat level?
This recipe has a mild to medium heat level thanks to the jalapeños and chili powder. You can easily dial up or down the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños or using a milder chili powder blend.
Can I use different beans or skip beans altogether?
Feel free to swap kidney beans for black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas based on your preference. Skipping beans will give you a meatier chili, which some folks prefer. Just adjust cooking time if needed.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover chili without drying it out?
Add a splash of beef broth or water when reheating to maintain moisture. Warm it slowly over medium-low heat and stir regularly to prevent sticking or drying out.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you fall in love with this Easy Crockpot Steak Chili Recipe as much as I have. It’s a perfect blend of bold flavors, tender beef, and comforting warmth that feels like a big cozy hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this crockpot chili will quickly become a go-to favorite for countless meals to come. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and start simmering the deliciousness today!
Print
Easy Crockpot Steak Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Crockpot Steak Chili recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. Combining tender beef stew meat with a robust blend of spices, tomatoes, beans, and aromatics, it simmers slowly to develop deep, rich flavors. Served with classic toppings like sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and tortilla chips, it’s a comforting, protein-packed chili ideal for family dinners or game-day gatherings.
Ingredients
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp ground cumin (freshly ground preferred)
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chili powder
Meat and Broth
- 2 lb beef stew meat (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- 1 cup beef broth
Tomatoes and Beans
- 14 oz kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
- 30 oz tomato sauce
- 5.5 oz tomato paste
Aromatics and Vegetables
- 1 large yellow onion (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 5 garlic cloves (minced)
- jalapeño peppers (sliced, to taste)
Toppings and Sides
- green onions (chopped, for garnish)
- sour cream
- tortilla chips
- cornbread
- shredded cheddar cheese (optional but recommended for richness)
Instructions
- Prepare the meat: Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels to promote better browning. Season it evenly with the black pepper and kosher salt.
- Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks in batches to avoid overcrowding and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. This step adds depth of flavor and locks in juices.
- Combine ingredients in crockpot: Transfer the seared beef into the crockpot. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and jalapeño peppers.
- Add spices: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and brown sugar over the mixture. Stir gently to combine all ingredients well.
- Cook low and slow: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 3 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
- Final seasoning and adjustments: After cooking, taste the chili and adjust salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed. Stir well.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with chopped green onions, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and tortilla chips. Serve with warm cornbread on the side for a complete meal.
Notes
- For more heat, add extra jalapeño slices or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute beef stew meat with chuck roast cut into chunks for a similar texture.
- Use fresh ground cumin and smoked paprika for the best flavor impact.
- Brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes; you can reduce it if you prefer a less sweet chili.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure all canned products and spices are certified gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
