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A bowl of Texas chili con carne topped with onions, cheese, and jalapeños, served with cornbread on a rustic wooden table.

Slow Cooker Texas Chili Con Carne

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This slow cooker Texas chili con carne is packed with smoky, bold flavors, featuring tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, spicy sauce made with dried chilies and aromatic spices. No beans—just deep, meaty goodness.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Texas
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for searing
  • 3 dried ancho chilies stems and seeds removed
  • 2 dried guajillo chilies stems and seeds removed
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
  • 1 ounce dark chocolate or 1 teaspoon cocoa powder

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker For long, slow simmering
  • Large skillet For browning the beef
  • Blender or Food Processor For making the chili paste
  • Wooden spoon For stirring the chili while cooking

Method
 

  1. Toast dried chilies in a dry pan until fragrant. Remove from heat, soak in warm water for 10 minutes, then blend into a smooth paste.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat. Sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides, then transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until soft. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne, cooking for another minute.
  4. Add tomato paste, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and chili paste to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until beef is fall-apart tender.
  6. Stir in dark chocolate, letting it melt into the chili for extra richness.
  7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

Notes

  • Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing cayenne pepper.
  • For extra depth, add a splash of brewed coffee or espresso.
  • Serve with diced onions, shredded cheese, or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.

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