Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is a simple and healthy homemade dinner perfect for batch cooking and feeding a crowd. This delicious dish combines tender beef, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables, making it ideal for family gatherings, game nights, or meal prep. With minimal effort required, you can whip up a flavorful bowl of comfort food that will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, you can set this dish to cook while you go about your day.
- Crowd Pleaser: Serve this chilli at parties or family dinners; it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite beans or add extra veggies for a personalized touch.
- Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients makes this dish great for those watching their spending.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking that enhances flavors without constant attention.
- Skillet: Browning the beef in a skillet adds depth to your chilli by creating rich flavors from the caramelized onions and garlic.
Ingredients
For the Chilli
- 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 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
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne
Step 1: Brown the Beef
If browning the beef, heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot:
1. Add the minced beef and cook until browned.
2. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet.
3. Cook for about 10 minutes until the onions are soft.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Once the beef is browned:
1. Transfer it along with the onions and garlic into your slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients: chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, mixed beans, beef stock, dried thyme, chilli powder, cumin, cocoa powder (or dark chocolate), and smoked paprika.
Step 3: Cook Your Chilli
Set your slow cooker:
1. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5 hours.
2. Once done, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
When ready to serve:
1. Dish out generous portions into bowls.
2. Top with rice, avocado slices, tortilla chips, cheese, and sour cream if desired.
This easy slow cooker chilli con carne will surely become a staple in your kitchen!
How to Serve The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne
Serving The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne can elevate your meal experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, the right accompaniments can make all the difference.
With Rice
- Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that balances the spice of the chilli.
- Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor.
Toppings
- Avocado Slices: Creamy and rich, they enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar or crumbled feta for a savory kick.
- Sour Cream: Adds a cool creaminess that offsets the heat.
Tortilla Chips
- Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up chilli and adding a delightful crunch.
Bread
- Crusty Bread Rolls: Great for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Cornbread: Sweet and fluffy, it complements the spicy notes of the chilli.
How to Perfect The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne
Perfecting your chilli con carne is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and satisfaction.
- Bold spices: Use fresh spices for an enhanced flavor profile. Dried spices can lose potency over time.
- Cook low and slow: Allowing the dish to cook longer on low heat helps deepen the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning: Always taste before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your preference.
- Experiment with beans: Adding different types of beans can bring variety in texture and flavor.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne
Pairing side dishes with your chilli con carne can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Cornbread: Sweet, soft, and perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole adds creaminess and balances out spicy flavors.
- Mexican Slaw: A crunchy slaw with lime dressing provides freshness and brightness.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes offer a filling option that complements the chilli well.
- Nachos: Layered with cheese and jalapeños, nachos are great for sharing alongside your meal.
- Rice Pilaf: Flavorful rice cooked with herbs adds an aromatic touch to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the beef: If you choose to brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker, ensure it’s just browned. Overcooked beef will become tough and dry when simmered for hours.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: After cooking, always taste your chilli and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t skip this step; it can elevate the flavors significantly.
- Using too many beans: While mixed beans add great texture, using too many can make your chilli too thick. Stick to one tin and adjust with extra tomatoes if needed.
- Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, onion, and herbs enhance flavor. Don’t substitute them with dried alternatives unless necessary; fresh is best for depth of taste.
- Inconsistent ingredient sizes: Cut vegetables like celery or onion into similar sizes. This ensures even cooking and better texture in your dish.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the chilli to cool down before sealing.
Freezing The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne
- Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with the date prepared for easy tracking.
Reheating The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne
- Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through; this usually takes about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne special?
The blend of spices combined with lean beef creates a rich flavor profile that is still healthy. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare!
Can I customize The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne?
Absolutely! You can add different beans or vegetables based on your preference or dietary needs. Feel free to spice it up with jalapeños or experiment with toppings.
How long does The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne last in the fridge?
It lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Is The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s perfect for batch cooking and can easily be divided into servings for quick meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this chilli is sure to impress! Give it a try and enjoy a comforting dish that everyone will love!
Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne
Indulge in the savory goodness of Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, a perfect dish for family gatherings or meal prepping. This comforting recipe blends tender, lean ground beef with hearty beans and fresh vegetables, creating a nutritious and flavorful meal that delights both kids and adults alike. With just 15 minutes of hands-on preparation, you can set your slow cooker and enjoy the rich aroma filling your home throughout the day. Whether you’re hosting a game night or looking for an effortless dinner option, this chilli is sure to impress!
- Total Time: 49 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 500 g lean minced beef (5% fat)
- 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 dark chocolate)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced beef and cook until browned. Stir in onions and garlic; sauté until onions are soft.
- Transfer browned beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, mixed beans, beef stock, and spices.
- Set slow cooker on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
- Dish into bowls and top with optional garnishes like avocado slices or cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours (high) or 8 hours (low)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Experiment with different beans or add bell peppers for extra nutrition. Serve with rice or cornbread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
