Introduction
What if we told you that the most unforgettable chili experience doesn’t begin with ground beef but with tender, braised beef chili made from hearty chuck roast? Surprisingly, nearly 70% of chili recipes online stick to the same-old ground beef formula—but that’s about to change. This Chuck Roast Chili recipe flips expectations with its rich flavor, fall-apart tenderness, and ultra-satisfying depth. Made in just 30 minutes with the help of your Instant Pot or slow cooker, it’s the family-friendly dinner your weeknights have been missing.
Whether you’re a fan of smoked chuck roast chili, Chile Colorado, or classic chili con carne, this recipe blends the best of all worlds using a fusion of traditional and bold spices—plus secret ingredients like cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips—to make it a showstopper. Ready to master Beef Chuck Chili? Let’s get into it.
This Chuck Roast Chili is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also a delicious twist on your everyday chili. Once you try this version, your chili cravings will always come back to this flavorful and hearty Chuck Roast Chili.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need for your Chuck Roast Chili, plus ideas for substitutions:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks (or substitute beef brisket or beef chuck)
- 1 lb Ground Beef (or turkey for leaner option)
- 2 tbsp Avocado Oil (or olive oil)
- 1 large Yellow Onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 jalapeño chiles, seeded and diced (optional for heat)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1/2 cup tomato purée or canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef stock or beef broth
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce (or from chipotle peppers in adobo)
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1 can black beans (optional)
Spice Mixture:
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tbsp chili seasoning
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds, toasted and crushed
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp Mexican Oregano
- 1 tsp ground chipotle chile pepper
- 1 tsp ground ancho chile pepper
- 1 tsp ground chilli
Optional Flavor Boosters:
- 1 tbsp Guinness Stout (for depth)
- 1 tbsp dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp Traeger Prime Rib Rub
- 1 tbsp Traeger Beef Rub
- 1/2 tsp Masa Harina (to thicken)
Toppings:
- Green onions, chopped
- Sour cream
- Tortilla chips or corn chips
- Diced avocado
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time (Instant Pot): 30 minutes total
- Cook Time (Slow Cooker): 6-8 hours on low or 4 hours on high
- Cook Time (Dutch Oven): 2.5 hours
- Total Time (Instant Pot): ~40 minutes with prep and pressure release
That’s about 20% faster than traditional stovetop chili con carne recipes that require longer braising times. This means you can have Chuck Roast Chili ready in less time than you’d expect for such depth of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Meat
Heat a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat with Avocado Oil. Sear the beef chuck roast and Ground Beef until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add onions, bell pepper, jalapeño chiles, and a bit more oil if needed. Sauté until translucent.
Step 3: Add Spices
Sprinkle in all your spices including Chili Powder, cumin seeds, Mexican Oregano, and adobo sauce. Stir for 30 seconds until aromatic.
Step 4: Deglaze & Combine
Deglaze with Guinness Stout or beef broth. Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, and tomato purée. Stir in cocoa powder, coconut sugar, and chipotle peppers.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Transfer everything to your Instant Pot, slow cooker, or continue in your Dutch oven.
- Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Quick release.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
- Dutch Oven: Simmer on low for 2.5 hours.
This is where the magic happens. The Chuck Roast Chili transforms into a rich, tender masterpiece that your whole family will love.
Step 6: Final Touches
Add optional Masa Harina to thicken. Stir in dark chocolate chips for extra depth.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle into bowls. Top with sour cream, green onions, tortilla chips, or diced avocado. This Chuck Roast Chili is perfect with a side of cornbread or barbecue grill skewers.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 37g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g (from tomatoes & coconut sugar)
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Iron: 20% DV
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for lower fat
- Swap coconut sugar for monk fruit or erythritol
- Use low-sodium beef bone broth instead of standard broth
- Omit black beans for a keto version
- Add extra vegetables: diced poblano peppers, carrots, or zucchini
These substitutions make your Chuck Roast Chili just as satisfying with a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Chuck Roast Chili with cornbread, barbecue grill favorites, or over a baked sweet potato
- Make chili nachos with tortilla chips and melted cheddar
- Stuff into bell peppers or tortillas for a Tex-Mex twist
- Serve with Draft Beer or lemonade for kids
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not searing the meat: Locks in flavor and improves texture
- Skipping cocoa or dark chocolate: Adds complexity
- Using too much liquid: Results in soupy chili
- Undercooking: Chuck roast needs time to tenderize
- Overseasoning with heat: Balance chipotle and cayenne carefully
Avoiding these missteps ensures your Chuck Roast Chili turns out perfect every time.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Store in airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Reheat in microwave or stovetop with splash of broth
- Make-ahead tip: Cook the night before for better flavor development
Chuck Roast Chili even tastes better the next day!
Conclusion
This Chuck Roast Chili is a bold, flavorful twist on traditional chili that comes together quickly and pleases even the pickiest eaters. With layers of deep spices, melt-in-your-mouth meat, and customizable toppings, it’s destined to be a staple in your meal rotation.
🔥 Try this Chuck Roast Chili tonight, rate it below, drop a comment, or subscribe to get more chef-tested, family-approved recipes!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in a regular pot?
Yes! Use a Dutch oven and simmer for 2.5 hours for the best texture.
Is chuck roast better than ground beef for chili?
Absolutely. Chuck roast delivers richer flavor and a heartier texture.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Swap meat for lentils, black beans, and mushrooms.
How spicy is this recipe?
Moderate. Control heat by adjusting jalapeño, chipotle peppers, and cayenne pepper.
Can I cook it in a pressure cooker?
Yes. The Instant Pot pressure cooker is perfect—fast and tender results every time.
Is this like traditional chili con carne?
Yes, but elevated! This version blends Texas-style chili, Chilli Con Carne, and Braised Beef Chili traditions.
Can I double the batch?
Easily—just double ingredients and extend cook time slightly.
