The Heartwarming Delight of Shredded Beef Chili with Meat

As the cool breeze of autumn sets in, there’s something breathtakingly magical about a pot of Shredded Beef Chili with Meat simmering on the stove. Imagine walking into your home, and your heart is instantly warmed by the enticing aroma of garlic, spices, and tender beef wafting through the air. It’s a scent that brings back memories—family gatherings, cool evenings spent on the couch, and love wrapped in a bowl. This comforting recipe is not just food; it’s a hug on a chilly day, a simple dinner that invites everyone to gather around the table and share stories over heaping bowls of pure bliss.

Why Make This Recipe

Why should Shredded Beef Chili with Meat be the next addition to your culinary repertoire? Here are just a few reasons:

Quick Prep: This is a simple and delicious dish that requires less than 15 minutes of hands-on cooking.
Cozy Flavors: The combination of spices and tender beef delivers a symphony of flavors that warms the soul.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners; everyone loves a hearty bowl of chili.
Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever beans or veggies you have on hand—make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple yet delicious ingredients to make your Shredded Beef Chili with Meat come to life:

2 pounds of beef chuck roast: This cut is perfect for shredding and absorbs flavors beautifully.
1 can (15 oz) of kidney beans: Adds a comforting texture; feel free to substitute with black beans for variety.
1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes: The base of your chili—opt for fire-roasted if you want an extra kick.
1 medium onion, diced: Provides sweet undertones; shallots can work too if you want a milder taste.
3 cloves garlic, minced: You can never have too much garlic; it transforms your chili into something extraordinary.
2 tablespoons chili powder: Essential for depth of flavor; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
1 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy notes; you can use smoked cumin for a unique twist.
1 bell pepper, chopped: Choose any color you like; it brightens up the dish and adds a crunch.
Salt and pepper to taste: Important to enhance all those lovely flavors.
Optional toppings: Sour cream, fresh cilantro, or shredded cheese for that extra touch.

Prep and Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high (for slow cooker)
Total Time: 4-6 hours, depending on your cooking method

While this dish takes a bit of time to cook, the deep, rich flavors are absolutely worth the wait.

How to Make Shredded Beef Chili with Meat

Follow these easy steps to create your perfect Shredded Beef Chili with Meat:

Sear the beef: In a hot skillet, add a bit of oil and sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until browned. This locks in flavors, so don’t skip this step!
Transfer to slow cooker: Place the seared beef in your slow cooker.
Add the veggies: Sprinkle the chopped onion and bell pepper around the beef, and top with minced garlic.
Mix in the beans and tomatoes: Pour the can of diced tomatoes and kidney beans over the beef and veggies, allowing those rich flavors to mingle.
Season it up: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, ensuring a good blend.
Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Your house will start to smell irresistible!
Shred the beef: Once the beef is fork-tender, remove it from the cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot. Stir to combine everything.
Taste and adjust: Before serving, take a moment to taste your chili. Adjust seasonings if necessary, adding a pinch of salt or more chili powder, depending on your palate.

Tips and Creative Variations

Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers for a smoky heat.
Vegetarian option: Swap beef for jackfruit or lentils for a plant-based version.
Herb twist: Stir in fresh oregano or thyme for an unexpected aromatic quality.
Unique toppings: Try avocado slices or pickled red onions for an exciting crunch.

Serving Ideas

Picture this: a cozy evening with friends, bowls of Shredded Beef Chili with Meat steaming in front of you, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Serve it alongside warm cornbread or crusty bread for the ultimate satisfying meal. Don’t forget a chilled beverage—perhaps a refreshing iced tea or a bold craft beer to complement the rich flavors.

Storing and Reheating

This Shredded Beef Chili with Meat is also a champion of leftovers, which makes it easy to enjoy later:

Storing: Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in portions. It will keep for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label your containers!
Reheating: To heat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it appears too thick.

Pro Tips for Success

Buy quality meat: Look for grass-fed beef if possible; the flavor is unbeatable.
Low and slow: The longer you cook, the better the flavors meld together. If using a pressure cooker, adjust cooking times accordingly.
Make it a day ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen overnight.

FAQs

Can I freeze this recipe? Yes! Just divide into portions and store in airtight containers for easy reheating.
What’s the best substitute for kidney beans? Black beans or pinto beans work beautifully if kidney isn’t available.
Can I make this on the stovetop? Absolutely! Sear the beef, add all ingredients to a pot, and simmer for 1–2 hours, until the beef is tender.

Conclusion

Shredded Beef Chili with Meat is our culinary love letter to cozy nights in and joyous family gatherings. Each spoonful tells a story of warmth and comfort, making it a must-try recipe that you’ll want to share with your loved ones. Gather around the table, serve up a bowl, and relish in the laughter and conversations that follow. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of life’s simple pleasures. Happy cooking!

Contents

1 Shredded Beef Chili with Meat

Shredded Beef Chili with Meat

This comforting Shredded Beef Chili with Meat combines tender beef with hearty beans, spices, and vegetables for a cozy dish perfect for family gatherings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 6

Total Time 6

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck roast Perfect for shredding and absorbs flavors beautifully.
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans Feel free to substitute with black beans for variety.
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes Opt for fire-roasted if you want an extra kick.
1 medium onion, diced Shallots can work too for a milder taste.
3 cloves garlic, minced Transforms your chili into something extraordinary.
2 tablespoons chili powder Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
1 teaspoon cumin Use smoked cumin for a unique twist.
to taste salt and pepper Enhances all the lovely flavors.

Optional Toppings

to taste sour cream
to taste fresh cilantro
to taste shredded cheese

Instructions

Preparation

In a hot skillet, add a bit of oil and sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until browned.
Transfer the seared beef to your slow cooker.
Sprinkle the chopped onion and bell pepper around the beef, and top with minced garlic.
Pour the can of diced tomatoes and kidney beans over the beef and veggies.
Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, ensuring a good blend.

Cooking

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
Once the beef is fork-tender, remove it from the cooker, shred it with two forks, and return it to the pot.

Final Touches

Before serving, taste your chili and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Notes

Make it a day ahead for even better flavor. Serve with warm cornbread or crusty bread.

Keyword Autumn Recipes, Beef Chili, Chili, Comfort Food, Slow Cooker

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest