Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili is a true crowd-pleaser, bringing the bold, smoky flavors of Texas right to your table. This hearty chili recipe is made with tender chunks of beef chuck roast, seasoned with a perfect blend of spices, and slow-cooked to perfection. As the chili simmers in your slow cooker, the flavors deepen and meld together, creating a rich, comforting dish that’s ideal for chilly nights or casual gatherings. The addition of green chiles and fire-roasted tomatoes gives this chili a smoky, slightly spicy kick, while the cumin and chili powder add a warm depth of flavor. Whether you serve it with optional toppings like cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions or enjoy it with chips or cornbread, this Texas Style Chili is sure to be a hit. Perfect for meal prep or a slow-cooked dinner, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Tender, Flavorful Beef

Beef chuck roast, cut into cubes, becomes tender and juicy as it simmers slowly in the chili, adding a rich, meaty texture.

2. Smoky and Spicy Kick

The combination of green chiles and fire-roasted tomatoes infuses the chili with a smoky, slightly spicy flavor.

3. Hands-Off Cooking

Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy other activities. This recipe requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

This chili stores well in the fridge for leftovers and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

5. Versatile Toppings

Customize your chili with a variety of toppings such as cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, or serve it with chips or cornbread.

Ingredients

Beef chuck roast
Avocado or vegetable oil
Salt

Yellow onion
Garlic
Brown sugar

Cumin
Chili powder
Green chiles

Crushed fire roasted tomatoes
Optional toppings: Green onions, sour cream, cheddar cheese, chips, or cornbread

Variations

Add More Heat

If you prefer a spicier chili, add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or a diced jalapeño to the mix for an extra kick.

Add Beans

Although traditional Texas-style chili doesn’t include beans, you can add kidney beans, pinto beans, or black beans if you prefer a heartier chili.

Use Ground Beef

For a quicker version, swap the beef chuck roast for ground beef. It will cook faster but still provide a delicious, flavorful base.

Make it Smokier

For an even smokier flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to the chili.

Serve with Cornbread

Pair the chili with homemade or store-bought cornbread for a comforting, Southern-inspired meal.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the beef chuck cubes in batches and sear them until browned on all sides. This step will enhance the flavor of the meat.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Sugar

Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and brown sugar, letting them toast in the pan for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

Transfer the seared beef, sautéed onions, and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the green chiles, crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, and salt.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

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

Step 7: Serve with Toppings

Serve the chili in bowls and top with optional toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and a side of chips or cornbread.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Searing the Meat: Searing the beef cubes before adding them to the slow cooker adds depth and richness to the flavor of the chili.

Adjust the Heat: If you like a spicier chili, feel free to add more chili powder, hot sauce, or fresh chilies to the mix.
Thicken the Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can mash some of the meat and beans (if using) in the slow cooker or simmer the chili uncovered for 30 minutes before serving.
Check the Beef for Tenderness: The beef should be tender and break apart easily with a fork when it’s ready.

Leftover Chili: This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s perfect for leftovers or freezing.

How to Serve

Texas Style Chili can be served in a variety of ways. Enjoy it as-is in a bowl with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions. Pair it with some crunchy tortilla chips or warm cornbread on the side. For a heartier meal, serve the chili over rice or mashed potatoes, or spoon it into a baked potato for a twist. You can also use it as a topping for nachos or hot dogs for a fun and flavorful treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the chili has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat the chili in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like brisket or stew meat. However, beef chuck is the most tender and flavorful option for chili.

2. Can I use ground beef instead of chuck roast?

Yes, ground beef is a quicker option, but it won’t have the same texture as beef chuck. If using ground beef, cook it in the pan first before adding it to the slow cooker.

3. Can I add beans to the chili?

Traditionally, Texas chili does not include beans, but you can add kidney beans or pinto beans if you prefer a heartier chili.

4. How can I make this chili spicier?

Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to adjust the heat to your liking.

5. How do I make the chili thicker?

You can mash some of the beans or meat in the chili, or let it simmer uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid.

6. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the chili.

7. How long does this chili last in the fridge?

This chili can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

8. Can I freeze the chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

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

Yes, you can make this chili on the stovetop. Simply follow the steps for browning the beef and simmer the chili on low heat for 2–3 hours until the beef is tender.

10. Can I add more vegetables to the chili?

Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or celery for more vegetables. Just make sure to sauté them first for added flavor.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili is the perfect recipe for a comforting, hearty meal. Packed with tender beef, smoky chiles, and a flavorful blend of spices, it’s a chili that will satisfy your cravings and warm you up on even the coldest days. Whether you serve it with all the traditional toppings or enjoy it with a side of chips or cornbread, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s an easy meal that delivers big on taste.