The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or meal prep for a busy week ahead. With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, healthy meal that everyone will love. The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is packed with protein and fiber, making it not only satisfying but also nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work!
• Rich Flavor: A blend of spices and ingredients creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
• Batch Cooking: Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a large group without stress.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean beef and beans for a protein-rich meal that won’t weigh you down.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need some essential equipment to ensure your chilli con carne turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This appliance allows for hands-off cooking, making it easy to prepare meals while you go about your day.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning meat, which adds depth of flavor before slow cooking.
• Cutting board: A must-have for safely chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chilli Con Carne

• 500 g 5% fat mince beef (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 (made using a stock cube or pot)
• 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 Meat

To add flavor to your chilli, start by browning the beef.
1. Heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Once hot, add the minced beef along with diced onions and minced garlic.
3. Cook for about 10 minutes until the meat is browned and onions are soft.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

After browning the meat, it’s time to transfer everything into the slow cooker.
1. Add the browned beef mixture to your slow cooker bowl.
2. Pour in all remaining ingredients: chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, mixed beans, beef stock, dried thyme, chilli powder, cumin, cocoa powder or chocolate, and smoked paprika.
3. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.

Step 3: Cook Your Chilli

Now it’s time to let your slow cooker work its magic!
1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5 hours.

Step 4: Final Touches Before Serving

Once cooked, give your chilli a taste test!
1. Adjust seasoning as needed—add salt or extra spices if desired.
2. Serve hot with rice, avocado slices, tortilla chips, cheese, or sour cream as toppings.

Enjoy your delicious homemade The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne!

How to Serve The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Serving your slow cooker chilli con carne is as fun as making it! This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways, allowing everyone to customize their meal according to their tastes.

With Rice

• Serve over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal that soaks up the chilli’s rich flavors.

Topped with Avocado

• Fresh avocado slices add creaminess and a refreshing contrast to the spicy chilli.

Tortilla Chips on the Side

• Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up the chilli, providing a delightful texture.

Cheese Garnish

• Shredded cheese melts beautifully on top, adding a savory element that complements the spices.

Sour Cream Dollop

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

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top can enhance freshness and add color to your dish.

How to Perfect The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Perfecting your chilli con carne can take it from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

• Choose lean beef: Opt for 5% fat mince beef for a healthier chilli without sacrificing taste.
• Experiment with spices: Adjust the amount of chili powder and cumin based on your preference for heat and flavor.
• Let it simmer: Allowing your chilli to cook longer will deepen its flavors; consider cooking on low for maximum taste.
• Add variety: Incorporate different beans or vegetables to make your chilli unique and nutritious.
• Serve hot: Enjoy your chilli while it’s warm for the best experience; reheat gently if needed.
• Taste before serving: Always check the seasoning before serving; a little salt or extra spice can go a long way.

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

Pairing side dishes with your chilli con carne enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty meal perfectly.

1. Cornbread
2. Sweet and buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up the juicy chili sauce.
3. Coleslaw
4. A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the chilli.
5. Baked Potatoes
6. Fluffy baked potatoes serve as an excellent base for heaping spoonfuls of chilli on top.
7. Grilled Vegetables
8. Seasonal grilled vegetables bring smoky flavors that pair well with spicy dishes.
9. Quinoa Salad
10. A light quinoa salad provides a nutty flavor and healthy grains that complement the heartiness of the chilli.
11. Garlic Bread
12. Warm, crusty garlic bread makes a delightful accompaniment, perfect for dipping into the chili.
13. Stuffed Peppers
14. Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and spices add a creative twist to your meal presentation.
15. Crispy Nachos
16. Layered nachos topped with cheese, jalapeños, and guacamole make an exciting sharing option alongside your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfect every time. Here are some common errors and how to prevent them:

• Not browning the meat: Failing to brown the beef can lead to a less flavorful chilli. Always take the time to brown it in a skillet first for a richer taste.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting the chilli before serving might result in blandness. Always adjust seasonings after cooking for the best flavor.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling your slow cooker too much can affect cooking times and texture. Ensure you follow the recommended ingredient amounts.
• Using expired ingredients: Old spices or canned goods can ruin your dish. Check expiration dates before using any ingredients to ensure freshness.
• Skipping the cooking time recommendations: Cooking for too little time can leave ingredients undercooked. Stick to low and high time guidelines for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chilli to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label container with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat while stirring until hot, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

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

What beans should I use?

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

How spicy is this chilli?

The spice level can be adjusted by altering the amount of chilli powder used. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the beef with lentils or extra beans for a delicious vegetarian version of The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is not only simple to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional vegetables. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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: Amelia
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and flavor of The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, a satisfying and nutritious dish perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. This hearty chili is packed with protein from lean beef and fiber-rich beans, making it a wholesome choice that everyone will enjoy. With minimal effort, you can create a delicious meal that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker, allowing you to focus on other activities while it cooks. This customizable recipe lets you adjust spices and toppings to suit your taste, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500 g 5% fat 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 chili 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 until cooked through.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker and add chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, mixed beans, beef stock, and spices. Stir well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving hot with your choice of toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow cooking
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg