The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is a delightful dish, perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. This recipe brings together juicy beef, vibrant vegetables, and a medley of spices to create a hearty meal that satisfies. It’s not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare—just set your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this dish shines in versatility and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply toss all ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Flavor-Packed: A blend of spices and ingredients creates a rich, delicious flavor profile.
• Perfect for Batch Cooking: Make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or share with friends.
• Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is wholesome without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to create The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is crucial for low-and-slow cooking, which allows flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
• Skillet: Browning the meat in a skillet adds depth of flavor to your chilli con carne before it goes into the slow cooker.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables effortless and safe, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

Ingredients

For the Base

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

For the Sauce

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

Seasonings

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

How to Make The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Step 1: Brown the Beef

If you prefer a richer flavor, heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot:
1. Add the ground beef.
2. Cook until browned, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the diced onions and minced garlic during the last few minutes until soft.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Once browned:
1. Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients including chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, mixed beans, beef stock, thyme, chilli powder, cumin, cocoa powder or chocolate square, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Cook Your Chilli Con Carne

Set your slow cooker:
– Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5 hours.

Step 4: Final Touches Before Serving

When cooking time is up:
1. Taste your chilli and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Serve hot with rice, avocado slices, tortilla chips, cheese, or sour cream as desired.

Enjoy The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne with friends and family!

How to Serve The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Serving your Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.

With Rice

• Adding fluffy white or brown rice absorbs the chili’s rich flavors, making for a filling meal.

Topped with Avocado

• Creamy avocado slices or guacamole offer a fresh contrast to the spiciness of the chili.

Alongside Tortilla Chips

• Crispy tortilla chips provide a crunchy texture, perfect for scooping up the chili.

Garnished with Cheese

• Shredded cheese melts beautifully on top, adding richness and extra flavor.

Served with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream cools down the heat and adds a creamy element to each bite.

Accompanied by Cornbread

• Sweet cornbread complements the spicy notes of the chili, creating a satisfying combination.

How to Perfect The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Perfecting your Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne involves simple adjustments. Here are some helpful tips:

• Use quality beef: Choosing lean ground beef ensures a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference to make it milder or spicier.
• Mix in veggies: Adding bell peppers or zucchini boosts nutrition and adds texture.
• Let it simmer longer: If time allows, cooking on low for longer enhances flavors through deeper melding.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like jalapeños or cilantro for added freshness.
• Store leftovers wisely: Keep any uneaten chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days for easy reheating.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne can enhance its overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up every drop of chili, garlic bread adds a savory touch.
2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw offers a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty chili.
3. Steamed Vegetables
   Lightly steamed seasonal vegetables balance out the richness of the dish while adding nutrients.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed quinoa salad brings both texture and health benefits alongside your meal.
5. Baked Potatoes
   Fluffy baked potatoes serve as an excellent base for spooning over chili, providing extra comfort.
6. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh pico de gallo adds brightness and freshness, elevating your chili experience with every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes and tips to ensure your chilli turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the meat can result in a less flavorful dish. Browning adds depth, so take the time to do it right.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Always taste your chilli before serving. Adjusting seasonings at the end can elevate the flavors significantly.
• Using low-quality canned ingredients: Quality matters! Opt for good quality chopped tomatoes and beans for a better texture and taste.
• Not allowing enough cook time: Rushing the cooking process can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Stick to low heat for longer for best results.
• Overloading the slow cooker: Filling it too full can prevent proper cooking. Ensure there’s enough space for steam and heat circulation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Chilli can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This dish freezes well 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 covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot, ensuring even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne that may help you.

How long does The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne take to cook?

This chilli takes about 8 hours on low or 5 hours on high in your slow cooker.

Can I customize The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne?

Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or adjust spices based on your preferences.

What should I serve with The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne?

Serve with rice, avocado, tortilla chips, cheese, or sour cream for a delicious meal combination.

Is The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne healthy?

Yes! Made with lean beef and plenty of vegetables and beans, it’s a nutritious option packed with protein and fiber.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. With the option to customize ingredients based on your taste preferences, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the robust flavors of The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends. This hearty chili combines succulent ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a blend of spices that deliver an unforgettable taste experience. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. This recipe is not only convenient but also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust ingredients to suit your preferences. Enjoy a warming bowl of this comforting dish accompanied by rice, fresh avocado slices, or crunchy tortilla chips.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500 g lean ground beef
• 1 medium red onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 400 g chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 400 g mixed beans in chili sauce
• 200 ml beef stock
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 ½ teaspoon chili 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, heat vegetable oil over medium heat and brown the ground beef for about 10 minutes.
2. Add diced onions and minced garlic during the last few minutes until softened.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add chopped tomatoes, mixed beans, beef stock, and seasonings.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours (high) or 8 hours (low)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 65mg