The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is a simple and healthy homemade dinner perfect for batch cooking and feeding a crowd. This dish combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making it ideal for family meals or casual gatherings. The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is versatile enough to suit various occasions, whether it’s game day or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work.
• Flavorful Experience: Packed with spices and ingredients, this dish offers a depth of flavor that will impress your guests.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean beef and plenty of vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice without compromising on taste.
• Versatile Serving Suggestions: Pair it with rice, avocado, or tortilla chips for a complete meal everyone will enjoy.
• Batch Cooking Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, you can easily make a large batch to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smoother. Having the right equipment is essential for achieving the best results with your slow cooker chilli con carne.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for even cooking over several hours, enhancing flavors and tenderness.
• Skillet: Great for browning meat and vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker, which adds additional depth to the dish.
• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for chopping ingredients safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is a simple and healthy homemade dinner perfect for batch cooking and feeding a crowd.

Protein & Vegetables

• 500 g 5% fat mince beef (ground beef)
• 1 medium red onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 stalks celery (diced)

Canned Goods & Sauces

• 400 g tin chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 400 g tin mixed beans in chilli sauce

Liquids & Broths

• 200 ml beef stock (made using a stock cube or a stock pot)

Spices & Seasonings

• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 ½ teaspoon chilli powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder or 1 small square of dark chocolate
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

How to Make The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. If browning the beef, heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, brown the meat along with onions and garlic in the skillet for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. After browning the beef, add it to the bowl of your slow cooker.
2. Add in all remaining ingredients including chopped tomatoes, mixed beans, spices, and beef stock.

Step 3: Cook Your Chilli Con Carne

1. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5 hours until everything is tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. When the chilli is cooked, taste it and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Serve hot with rice, avocado, tortilla chips, cheese, or sour cream for an added touch!

How to Serve The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Serving your easy slow cooker chilli con carne can enhance the dining experience and accommodate different tastes. Here are some delicious ways to present this hearty dish.

With Rice

• White or brown rice makes a great base for the chilli, soaking up all the flavors and adding a satisfying texture.

Topped with Avocado

• Fresh avocado slices or guacamole add creaminess that balances the spice of the chilli beautifully.

Alongside Tortilla Chips

• Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for a delightful contrast in texture. They can also be used for dipping!

Sprinkled with Cheese

• A handful of shredded cheese on top melts perfectly, adding richness and an extra layer of flavor.

Accompanied by Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream helps to cool down the heat, making it perfect for those who prefer milder flavors.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped cilantro or parsley can add a fresh touch, enhancing both the look and taste of your meal.

How to Perfect The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

To ensure your easy slow cooker chilli con carne turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use high-quality beef – Lean ground beef enhances flavor without excess fat, making your dish healthier.
• Adjust spice levels – Start with less chilli powder if you’re unsure about heat preferences; you can always add more later.
• Incorporate veggies – Adding bell peppers or corn increases nutrition and adds sweetness to balance the spices.
• Let it rest – Allowing the chilli to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together nicely.
• Experiment with toppings – Try different garnishes like jalapeños or lime wedges for added flavor and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Pairing side dishes with your easy slow cooker chilli con carne can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Cornbread – This sweet and buttery bread complements the spicy notes of the chilli perfectly.
2. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing the richness of the dish.
3. Garlic Bread – Soft garlic bread is ideal for scooping up chilli while providing delicious flavor.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad offers a nutritious option that pairs well with spicy dishes.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Charred vegetables provide a smoky flavor that enhances your meal’s overall taste profile.
6. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty side, perfect for topping with chilli or cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef and aromatics can lead to a less flavorful dish. Take the time to sauté them for added depth.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned tomatoes or beans can affect taste. Opt for high-quality products for better results.
• Overloading the slow cooker: Packing too many ingredients can impact cooking time and texture. Follow the recipe measurements to achieve optimal flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning at the end may leave the dish bland. Always sample your chilli before serving!
• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking on high instead of low can result in unevenly cooked ingredients. Allow ample time for the flavours to meld by following recommended cooking times.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that works well in this recipe.

What beans should I use in my chilli?

Mixed beans work perfectly, but you can also use black beans or kidney beans based on your preference.

How spicy is The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne?

The spice level depends on how much chilli powder you add. Adjust it according to your taste!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based mince and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different beans or spices to suit your taste. Perfect for batch cooking, it’s an ideal meal for families or gatherings. Give this recipe a try today!

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The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the rich and robust flavors of The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, a delightful dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. This hearty and healthy recipe features lean beef and an array of colorful vegetables simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while the fragrant spices meld together, creating a comforting meal that everyone will love. Whether served over rice, with crunchy tortilla chips, or topped with creamy avocado, this chili is versatile enough to satisfy all taste buds. Ideal for batch cooking, it’s the ultimate dish for meal prep or feeding a crowd!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500 g lean ground beef
• 1 medium red onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 400 g tin chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 400 g tin mixed beans in chilli sauce
• 200 ml beef stock
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 ½ teaspoon chilli powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder or 1 small square of dark chocolate
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

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Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic for about 10 minutes.
2. Transfer the browned mixture to a slow cooker and add chopped tomatoes, mixed beans, beef stock, and spices.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours until everything is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving hot with your choice of sides.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: Low (8 hours) / High (5 hours)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg