Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili – Easy, Hearty & Fuss-Free

Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe for any busy home cook. It’s hearty, packed with rich beef flavor, and full of wholesome ingredients like chunks of sweet potatoes and fire-roasted tomatoes. With just 20 minutes of prep, you can let your slow cooker handle the rest while you tackle your to-do list. Trust me, this dish will have your house smelling incredible all day.

When life gets hectic and you need a meal that’s both comforting and nutritious, this recipe saves the day. By using a slow cooker, we skip the intensive stovetop simmering and still get fork-tender beef with perfectly cooked sweet potatoes in every bite. Plus, this is a big-batch recipe, making it perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

Why This Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili Is a Game-Changer

• Hands-off cooking: After 20 minutes of prep, let your slow cooker take over for 8 hours of low-and-slow magic.
• Tender beef every time: Chuck roast breaks down beautifully in the slow cooker, absorbing all those rich, spiced flavors.
• Built-in meal prep: This recipe makes 14 cups of chili! Freeze portions for quick lunches or dinners later.
• All-in-one meal: Protein, veggies, and delicious broth in one pot – no need for side dishes unless you’re feeling fancy.
• A healthier twist: Sweet potatoes bring a natural sweetness and are loaded with nutrients to keep the dish wholesome.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili

The only major piece of equipment here is your trusty slow cooker. If you don’t have one yet, I highly recommend a 6-quart model to fit this recipe comfortably. Here are some quick tips for success:

• Use the low setting for ultra-tender beef. Rushing it on high heat won’t give you the same melt-in-your-mouth results.
• If you want to brown the beef first, grab a large skillet or Dutch oven. It adds an extra layer of flavor, but it’s totally fine to skip this step if you’re short on time.
• Clean-up tip: Line your slow cooker with a disposable liner for the easiest cleanup of your life!

Simple Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili

This recipe relies on pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients. Let’s break down a few key players:

• Boneless chuck roast: This cut shines in the slow cooker, breaking down into tender, flavorful bites.
• Sweet potatoes: These add natural sweetness and balance the heat from the spices. Pre-cut varieties save time if you’re in a rush.
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: They bring a smoky richness you won’t get from regular canned tomatoes.
• Diced green chilies: A mild heat boost that doesn’t overpower – perfect for the whole family.

Shopping tip: Most ingredients for this chili are shelf-stable or long-lasting, so you can buy them ahead of time and whip this up whenever you need a comforting dinner.

Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili Recipe Details

• Servings: 8–10 (14 cups)
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours, 20 minutes

Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili Ingredients

• 2 lbs. boneless beef chuck or round roast, well-trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 6 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes (about 3 cups)
• 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chilies
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon fine salt, plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
• 2 (28-ounce) cans fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
• 3 ounces no-salt-added tomato paste (½ of a 6-ounce can)
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced avocado, pickled or fresh jalapeño slices, cilantro, cheddar cheese, and/or lime wedges

How to Make Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili

1. Optional: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides for added flavor (2-3 minutes per side). Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.
2. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and sweet potatoes to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in the diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
4. Cover and cook on the LOW setting for 8 hours. Resist the temptation to open the lid – it’s doing its magic!
5. Once the cooking time is up, season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Jake’s Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili

• Browning the beef first is optional but worth the extra step if you have a few extra minutes. It layers in more flavor.
• Double this recipe and freeze half – it reheats beautifully and makes busy weeknights a breeze.
• Add extra spice by throwing in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you like a kick.
• Want to stretch this dish even further? Stir in a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans before serving.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. It tastes even better the next day!
• Reheat individual portions on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of beef broth if it’s thickened too much.

Easy Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili Variations

• Southwest style: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika and top with tortilla strips.
• White chili twist: Swap the fire-roasted tomatoes for diced tomatillos and use white beans instead of sweet potatoes.
• Vegetable-packed: Clean out your fridge by adding zucchini, carrots, or celery along with the other ingredients.
• Spicy lovers: Use a spicier chili powder blend or add fresh diced jalapeños to the slow cooker for a heat upgrade.

Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili FAQs

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead?

Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the beef, then cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow for a 10-minute natural release before serving.

Can I substitute the beef chuck roast with ground beef?

Absolutely. You can use 2 lbs. of ground beef instead. Brown it first in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.

How do I thicken the chili if it’s too thin?

Leave the lid off the slow cooker and let it simmer for 30 minutes to reduce. Alternatively, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Let the chili cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen chili?

Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

What’s your favorite topping for chili? Let me know in the comments, and don’t forget to share this Slow Cooker Chuck Roast Chili recipe with friends who love easy, hearty meals!