When the weekend arrives, there’s nothing quite like coming home to the rich, mouthwatering aroma of Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde wafting through the kitchen. This recipe isn’t just another dinner option; it’s a delightful journey into comfort food that transforms affordable ingredients into a savory masterpiece. I stumbled upon this gem during a lazy Saturday afternoon, and it quickly became a family favorite for its effortless preparation and hearty flavors.
The tangy embrace of salsa verde combined with tender, slow-cooked beef creates a dish that’s perfect over rice, tucked into tacos, or piled high on nachos. If you’re tired of the same old meals that leave you wanting, this versatile chili is the perfect solution, effortlessly elevating your dining experience without the fuss. Grab your crockpot and let’s dive into a delicious adventure that will warm your heart and fill your belly!
Why is Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde a Must-Try?
Flavor-Packed Experience: The vibrant salsa verde mingles beautifully with slow-cooked beef, delivering a taste sensation that’s both tangy and savory.
Set It and Forget It: With minimal prep, this dish allows you to enjoy your day while it cooks, making it truly ideal for busy lifestyles.
Endless Serving Options: Whether you serve it over rice, in tacos, or with tortilla chips, there’s a satisfying way for everyone to enjoy this masterpiece.
Budget-Friendly Ingredients: This comforting dish makes use of affordable staples, ensuring that comforting meals can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, everyone will love digging into a warm bowl of this delicious chili!
Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about a slow-cooked chili, and this one ticks all the boxes for a cozy meal at home.
Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde Ingredients
For the Chili
- Beef Chuck – Provides tenderness and juiciness due to its marbling; this is the best cut for slow cooking, but you can substitute with beef stew meat if necessary.
- Salsa Verde – Adds a tangy flavor that elevates the dish; use a full-flavored brand for the best results.
- Green Chiles (canned, drained) – Contributes mild heat and flavor; any quality brand works.
- Onion (1 medium) – Offers sweetness and depth; dice into 1/2-inch pieces for even distribution.
- Garlic (4 cloves) – Enhances the flavor profile; feel free to mince or slice as preferred.
- Salt (1/2 tsp) – Key seasoning for flavor enhancement; adjust according to taste.
- Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Freshly ground is preferred for a better flavor profile.
For Serving
- Limes (for serving) – Adds brightness to the dish; use wedges for easy squeezing over servings.
- Fresh Cilantro (for garnish) – Provides freshness and aroma; while optional, it’s highly recommended to enhance the dish.
- Mexican Quick-Pickled Spicy Carrots – Adds a delightful tangy crunch; this is optional but enhances the overall flavor experience.
- Cauliflower Rice or Tortilla Chips – Optional sides that offer texture variety; these pair beautifully with the chili verde.
This Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings family and friends together around the table. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish with ease!
How to Make Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde
Prepare Beef: Begin by cutting the beef chuck into 1-2 inch cubes. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel; this helps achieve better browning during cooking.
Season Meat: Generously sprinkle the beef cubes with salt and black pepper, ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Combine Ingredients: Place the seasoned beef into the crockpot. Then, scatter diced onion and minced garlic over the top. Pour in the salsa verde and add the drained green chiles, mixing gently.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for 8-12 hours. For the best tenderness, aim for about 10 hours. Resist the urge to lift the lid during cooking!
Shred Beef: Once the cooking time is complete, use tongs to remove the beef from the pot. Shred it using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat, and return it to the pot, mixing it with the cooking liquid.
Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve warm. Experiment with preferred toppings like fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or Mexican quick-pickled spicy carrots.
Optional: Serve with warm tortillas, refried beans, or a fresh cabbage slaw for extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde Variations
Feel free to get creative with your chili verde and tailor it to your taste buds and dietary preferences!
- Pork Shoulder: Swap the beef for pork shoulder for a different flavor profile; still tender and equally delicious.
- Quinoa Base: Serve over quinoa instead of rice for a nutty flavor boost and added protein in your meal.
- Lettuce Wraps: Create a low-carb option by using lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a fresh, crunchy experience.
- Add Beans: Mix in some black beans or pinto beans for extra heartiness and texture that complements the chili.
- Corn Addition: Toss in corn kernels for a sweet and crunchy twist that balances the spice of the chili wonderfully.
- Spicy Kick: Enhance heat levels by adding diced jalapeños, or try a splash of hot sauce for those craving more spice.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or smoked paprika to create new layers of flavor in your chili.
- Creamy Topping: Top your serving with a dollop of sour cream or avocado for a creamy contrast that enhances each bite.
Storage Tips for Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes it easy to enjoy this comforting dish all week long!
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them for easy identification later.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain the chili’s texture.
Meal Prep: Perfect for meal prep, make a double batch and freeze half for quick, delicious meals during busy weeks.
What to Serve with Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde?
When dining on this delightful chili, consider pairing it with fresh and complementary sides that enhance the overall experience.
Warm Corn Tortillas: These soft, pliable tortillas add a wonderful texture, perfect for scooping up the rich chili and balancing the flavors.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with a hint of lime and cilantro complements the tanginess of the chili, creating a refreshing contrast that brightens each bite.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: The crunch of grilled corn with creamy dressing and zesty lime adds a vibrant freshness, making it a perfect companion to the savory beef.
Creamy Avocado Dip: Silky avocado dip offers a cool and creamy element, providing a delightful contrast to the spice of the chili.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: For a fun twist, serving with crispy tortilla chips invites a delightful crunch. They’re perfect for dipping or enjoying with your chili.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A light salad with cucumbers and a tangy vinaigrette brings a refreshing crispness, balancing the hearty warmth of the chili.
Spicy Mexican Pickled Carrots: These tangy, spicy carrots introduce a lovely kick and a satisfying crunch that elevates the chili experience.
Chilled Beer or Homemade Horchata: Pairing it with a chilled Mexican lager or a sweet, refreshing horchata creates a perfect sip to complement the robust flavors in the chili.
These pairing options will elevate your meal and create an unforgettable dining experience around your Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde!
Expert Tips for Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde
• Trim the Fat: Start by trimming excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy sauce, ensuring a rich and flavorful chili.
• Don’t Lift the Lid: Resist opening the crockpot throughout cooking, as lifting the lid can significantly extend cooking time and heat loss.
• Flavorful Salsa Verde: Choose a high-quality salsa verde to enhance the flavor of your dish; taste and adjust seasoning with lime juice and salt if necessary.
• Shred While Hot: Shred the beef directly in the crockpot; this allows it to soak up more of the rich, savory sauce for added flavor.
• Customize It: Don’t hesitate to experiment with optional ingredients like beans, corn, or switching to pork for a different flavor in your Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde.
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions and garlic, as well as cut the beef into cubes, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepped ingredients in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, combine the beef with salt, pepper, salsa verde, and green chiles the night before. When you’re ready to serve, place everything in the crockpot and cook on LOW for about 10 hours. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time during busy weeknights, ensuring that this hearty dish is just as delicious when it’s time to enjoy it!
Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for this chili?
Absolutely! Beef chuck is the star of this dish due to its marbling, which provides tenderness and juiciness. If you can’t find it, beef stew meat makes a suitable substitute, though it might not be as rich in flavor.
How can I store leftovers of Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors all week long without any hassle. If you think you won’t finish it within that time, go ahead and freeze it!
Can I freeze Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde?
Of course! You can freeze it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the chili to cool completely, then portion it out and label the containers for easy identification later. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What should I do if my chili seems too watery?
Good question! If you find your chili is too watery, there are a few things you can try. First, let it simmer uncovered for a while to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. If you’re short on time, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry and stir it into the chili, which will help thicken it up!
Can my pets enjoy this Chili Verde?
While a savory dish like this is delicious for humans, it’s not safe for pets! Ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful to dogs and cats. Make sure to keep this tasty meal just for yourself and your family!
What toppings pair well with Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde?
Very! You can elevate your chili with various toppings. Fresh cilantro and wedges of lime add brightness, while things like Mexican quick-pickled spicy carrots add a delightful crunch. You might also consider sliced avocados or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Have fun with it!
Savory Simple Crockpot Beef Chili Verde for Effortless Comfort
Equipment
- - Crockpot
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 2 pounds Beef Chuck Can substitute with beef stew meat.
- 16 ounces Salsa Verde Use a full-flavored brand for best results.
- 1 can Green Chiles Drained and contributes mild heat.
- 1 Onion (medium) Diced into 1/2-inch pieces.
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced or sliced as preferred.
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste.
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly ground is preferred.
For Serving
- Limes Use wedges for easy squeezing.
- Fresh Cilantro Optional, highly recommended for garnish.
- Mexican Quick-Pickled Spicy Carrots Optional, enhances overall flavor.
- Cauliflower Rice or Tortilla Chips Optional sides that pair beautifully.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Cut the beef chuck into 1-2 inch cubes and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Sprinkle the beef cubes with salt and black pepper.
- Place beef into the crockpot, scatter diced onion and minced garlic on top, pour in salsa verde and add drained green chiles.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 8-12 hours, aiming for about 10 hours.
- Use tongs to remove and shred beef, discarding large pieces of fat, then return it to the pot.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and serve warm with toppings like cilantro and lime wedges.