Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili

Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili is a bold, beefy, and deeply flavorful dish made the Lone Star State way—no beans, no tomatoes, just tender chunks of beef simmered low and slow in a rich, smoky chili sauce. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal for chili lovers who crave authentic Texan flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This no-bean chili is all about the meat and spice. By letting it simmer in the slow cooker, the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the spices have time to deepen and develop. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for game day, meal prep, or cold-weather comfort.

• True Texas-style—no beans, no tomatoes
• Deep, smoky flavor with tender beef
• Easy slow cooker method with minimal effort
• Great for feeding a crowd
• Freezer-friendly and 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
• Dried ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
• Dried guajillo chilies (or pasilla), stemmed and seeded
• Beef broth
• Apple cider vinegar
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Dried oregano (Mexican oregano if available)
• Ground coriander
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil or vegetable oil

directions

1. Toast dried chilies in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, then soak in hot water for 20 minutes until soft.
2. Meanwhile, sear beef cubes in batches in a hot skillet with oil until browned on all sides. Transfer to slow cooker.
3. In a blender, combine soaked chilies, garlic, vinegar, 1 cup of beef broth, and all spices. Blend until smooth.
4. Pour the chili paste over the beef in the slow cooker. Add chopped onion and remaining broth. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until beef is fork-tender.
6. Skim excess fat, taste, and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with your favorite chili toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 7–8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
Total time: up to 8 hours, 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Beer: Replace some of the broth with a dark beer for extra depth.
• Thicker Chili: Simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes or mash some beef pieces to thicken the sauce.
• More Heat: Add chipotle peppers in adobo or extra cayenne.
• With Beans (Non-Texan): Add cooked kidney or pinto beans if you’re not following strict Texas chili rules.
• With Tomatoes (Also Non-Texan): Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes if desired, but don’t tell any Texans.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave for 2–3 minutes.
This chili freezes beautifully—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What makes Texas chili different?

Texas chili traditionally has no beans or tomatoes—it focuses on beef, chilies, and spices.

Can I use ground beef instead of chuck roast?

Yes, but chuck roast offers a richer texture and flavor when slow cooked.

Do I have to soak the dried chilies?

Yes, soaking softens them for blending and helps extract their full flavor.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

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

Is this chili spicy?

It can be mild or spicy, depending on the type and amount of chilies used. Adjust to your taste.

What do I serve with Texas chili?

Cornbread, tortillas, chopped onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, or jalapeños are all great.

Can I thicken the chili without flour or cornstarch?

Yes, just simmer it uncovered or blend some of the cooked beef and broth.

How do I make it smokier?

Add more smoked paprika or a diced chipotle in adobo sauce.

Can I add veggies?

Traditionally, no—but diced bell peppers or poblano chilies can add flavor if desired.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days, and it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Texas Style Chili is the definition of bold, no-nonsense comfort food. With tender beef, a deep chili flavor, and just the right amount of heat, it’s everything chili should be—simple, hearty, and unforgettable. Serve it up, top it how you like, and enjoy a true taste of Texas.

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