Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This slow cooker Chile Colorado recipe is your answer. Tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet sauce – it's the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening or a satisfying weekend lunch. Best of all, minimal effort is required thanks to the magic of your slow cooker! This recipe offers a delicious and healthy meal, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want quick dinner ideas but still crave homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (4 ounce) can diced green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sear the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This step adds a fantastic depth of flavor to your Chile Colorado. Set aside.
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Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine in slow cooker: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the browned beef, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Pour in the beef broth.
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Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork.
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Shred and simmer: Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the sauce. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve: Serve your delicious Chile Colorado hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Enjoy with your favorite sides, such as rice, cornbread, or tortillas.
Tips for the Best Chile Colorado:
- Don't skip searing the beef: Searing the beef before adding it to the slow cooker creates a richer, deeper flavor.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Use good quality chili powder: The quality of your chili powder significantly impacts the overall flavor of the Chile Colorado. Look for a chili powder that has a good blend of spices.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. The Chile Colorado tastes even better the next day!
Variations:
- Add beans: For a heartier Chile Colorado, add 1 (15 ounce) can of kidney beans or pinto beans during the last hour of cooking.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the flavor and nutritional value by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots along with the onions.
- Spice it up: Incorporate a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. For a more accurate nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator based on your specific recipe. However, this Chile Colorado is generally a good source of protein and fiber.
This easy Chile Colorado recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can be made with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy individuals and families looking for simple yet satisfying food recipes. Enjoy!