Hello friends, Chef André here!
Some recipes don’t just feed you—they tell a story. This Chunky Crockpot Steak Chili is inspired by the kind of bold, no-nonsense chili you’d find simmering all day in a Texas grandma’s kitchen.This is real Texas-style chili: rich cubes of beef steak, slow-cooked until tender, swimming in a deeply spiced red chili sauce. No shortcuts, no fillers-just time, patience, and layers of flavor that build into something unforgettable.
What I love most about this Crockpot Steak Chili is how effortless it is once everything goes into the slow cooker. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, game day gatherings, or anytime you want a hearty meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
Why This Crockpot Steak Chili Is So Special
This recipe stands out because it’s:
- Made with chunky steak, not ground beef
- Slow-cooked for deep, rich flavor
- Naturally gluten-free
- Perfect for make-ahead meals
- Even better the next day
This is comfort food done the Texas way.
Ingredients for Chunky Crockpot Steak Chili
Main Ingredients
- 2½ lbs beef chuck steak or stew steak, cut into large cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons chili powder (Texas-style blend)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1½ cups crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 bay leaf
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream or yogurt
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
Smart Substitutions by Chef André
- Beef short ribs for extra richness
- Ancho or chipotle chili powder for smoky depth
- Extra broth for a soupier chili
- Add cocoa powder (½ tsp) for complexity
Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You
1. Brown the Steak
Season steak generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Brown steak cubes in batches until deeply caramelized.
Transfer to the crockpot.
2. Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add onions and cook for 5–7 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and tomato paste.
Cook for 1 minute to bloom spices.
Transfer everything to the crockpot.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and bay leaf to the crockpot.
Stir gently, cover, and cook:
- LOW for 7–8 hours or
- HIGH for 4–5 hours
Chili is ready when steak is fork-tender and sauce is thick.
4. Finish & Serve
Remove bay leaf.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Creative Variations by Chef André
Make this Steak Chili your own:
🌶 Extra Spicy
Add cayenne or chili flakes.
🧄 Deeper Flavor
Add roasted garlic or caramelized onions.
🥩 Ultra Chunky
Keep steak cubes extra large.
🥣 Chili Night
Serve with cornbread or over rice.
Chef’s Tips for the Best Steak Chili
- Brown the steak well—this is key
- Low and slow cooking makes it tender
- Don’t rush the crockpot
- Let it rest before serving
Chili rewards patience.
What to Serve with Crockpot Steak Chili
This chili pairs perfectly with:
- Cornbread or corn muffins
- Steamed rice
- Simple green salad
- Warm crusty bread
Perfect for feeding a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store up to 5 days
- Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months
- Reheat: Slowly on stovetop or crockpot
Flavor improves overnight.
FAQ – Chunky Crockpot Steak Chili
Is this chili spicy?
Moderate heat—easy to adjust.
Can I make it without a crockpot?
Yes—simmer on stovetop 3–3½ hours.
Does Texas chili include beans?
Traditionally no—this one stays classic.
Is this good for game day?
Perfect—feeds a crowd and stays warm.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~510 kcal
- Protein: 40 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
(Values vary by cut of beef.)
Conclusion – Chef André’s Ultimate Texas Chili Bowl 🌶️🥣
This Chunky Crockpot Steak Chili is bold, hearty, and deeply comforting—just the way a true Texas chili should be. Slow-cooked steak, rich spices, and a thick red sauce make this a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
If you try it, leave a comment, rate the recipe, and tell me how you served it!
For safe handling and storage of beef, I recommend USDA Food Safety:
👉 https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
Happy slow cooking,
Chef André 👨🍳