This is a rich, hearty, and flavorful Shredded Beef Chili that is sure to become a favorite. The tender, slow-cooked shredded beef is mixed with beans, tomatoes, and spices for a satisfying and comforting meal.
This chili is sure to be a hit whether you make it on the stovetop, in your slow cooker, or in your Instant Pot. It’s packed with flavor and is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tender, melt-in-your-mouth shredded beef
- Bold, smoky, and rich flavor
- Perfect for meal prep or freezing
- Great for feeding a crowd or for gatherings
- Can be made with your preferred heat level
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beef chuck roast | 2 lbs | Best for shredding |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | |
| Onion | 1 large | Diced |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Minced |
| Bell pepper | 1 | Chopped |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 oz | |
| Kidney beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Drained & rinsed |
| Black beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Drained & rinsed |
| Beef broth | 1 cup | |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | |
| Chili powder | 2 tablespoons | |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon | |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | |
| Oregano | ½ teaspoon | |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Instructions
1. Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot and set it over medium-high heat. Sear the beef from all sides until it is browned.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Remove the beef and set it aside. Then, sauté the onion and bell pepper in the pot for 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Build the Chili
Return the beef to the pot and add crushed tomatoes, beans, beef broth, tomato paste, and spices. Stir them together.
4. Simmer
Cover the pot and simmer the mixture over low heat for 2-3 hours or more until the beef is tender.
5. Shred the Beef
Remove the beef from the pot and shred it using forks. Then, return the beef to the pot and stir and simmer for 10-15 minutes more.
6. Serve
Serve the beef and the mixture over rice or noodles and enjoy with your favorite toppings.
Slow Cooker Method
- Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker
- Cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours
- Shred the beef and stir well before serving
Instant Pot Method
- Sear the beef with the sauté mode
- Add all the ingredients
- Cook on HIGH for 60 minutes
- Shred the beef and stir well
Tips for the Best Chili
- Use chuck roast for the most tender shredded beef
- Let the chili simmer for the longest time possible
- Add more chili powder or jalapenos according to your taste
- Add lime juice before serving
Serving Suggestions
- Shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions are great toppings.
- Cornbread or tortilla chips are good accompaniments.
- Add some sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
- This is the perfect dish to enjoy while watching your favorite games.
Storage
- If kept in the refrigerator, the dish can be safely consumed within 4 days.
- If frozen, the dish can be safely consumed within 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of beef is good for shredded beef chili?
Beef chuck roast is considered ideal since it will become tender when slow-cooked.
How long should I cook shredded beef chili?
You should cook this dish for about 2 hours on low heat so that the beef will be tender.
Is it possible to make shredded beef chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare this dish on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
How can you thicken the chili without using any thickeners?
You can simmer this dish uncovered or mash the beans for a thicker consistency.
Can shredded beef chili be frozen?
Yes, this dish can be stored in an airtight container for 3 months.
Which seasonings will increase the flavor of chili?
Such seasonings include chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and garlic.
Which toppings are good for shredded beef chili?
Cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, sliced avocados, and tortilla chips are perfect choices.

