The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also allows for easy batch cooking, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. With its rich taste and hearty ingredients, this dish stands out as a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy comforting home-cooked food without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and stirring required, you can set it up in minutes.
• Flavorful: The blend of spices and ingredients creates a rich, savory taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect on its own or served with rice, avocado, or tortilla chips for added texture.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps you satisfied.
• Affordable: Uses budget-friendly ingredients without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have all the necessary tools ready. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Ideal for long cooking times, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning meat and vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker, enhancing flavor.

Ingredients

To make The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, gather these simple ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 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 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

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the browned beef mixture into your slow cooker.
2. Add in the remaining ingredients including chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, mixed beans, beef stock, thyme, chilli powder, cumin, cocoa powder (or chocolate), and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Chilli

1. Set your slow cooker on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours.
2. Stir occasionally if possible during cooking time.

Step 4: Final Touches Before Serving

1. When cooked, taste your chilli con carne and adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Serve hot with rice, avocado slices, tortilla chips or toppings like cheese and sour cream as desired.

Enjoy this hearty meal as a comforting dinner option that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Serving your delicious slow cooker chilli con carne can elevate the dining experience. Here are some great ways to serve it that will delight your guests and family.

With Rice

• Serve over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting base that soaks up the rich chilli flavors.

Topped with Avocado

• Fresh avocado adds creaminess and a cool contrast to the spicy chilli. Consider slicing or mashing it on top.

Accompanied by Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips provide a fun texture and are perfect for dipping into the chilli.

Garnished with Cheese

• Grated cheese, such as cheddar, melts beautifully on top, adding richness and flavor.

With Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream can balance the heat and adds a creamy touch to each bite.

Served with Cornbread

• Warm cornbread is a classic pairing, perfect for scooping up the chilli or enjoying on the side.

How to Perfect The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

To truly make this dish shine, consider these helpful tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use lean meat: Opting for 5% fat minced beef ensures a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Adjust spices: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste preferences. More chili powder for heat, or extra cumin for earthiness can customize your dish.
• Let it rest: Allowing your chilli to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking can help deepen the flavors before serving.
• Experiment with beans: Try different types of beans like black beans or kidney beans to find your favorite blend.
• Batch cook: This recipe is perfect for batch cooking. Prepare extra servings to freeze for future meals.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and sweetness in your chilli.

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

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker chilli con carne can enhance the meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its hearty flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious sauce.
2. Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the chilli.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s appeal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs provides a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn pairs well with spicy dishes and adds a delightful crunch.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chilli, cheese, and other toppings for a hearty option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, it’s easy to overlook details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Browning the beef enhances the flavor. Always brown your meat before adding it to the slow cooker for a richer taste.
• Not measuring spices accurately: Too much or too little spice can change the dish completely. Use measuring spoons for accuracy to achieve the perfect flavor balance.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Low-quality ingredients can lead to a lackluster dish. Always choose fresh vegetables and high-quality canned goods for the best results.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: Filling the slow cooker too full can prevent even cooking. Stick to recommended amounts for best results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every batch may need different seasoning levels. Taste test towards the end of cooking and adjust seasonings as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until fully heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne special?

The combination of spices, quality ingredients, and slow cooking creates deep flavors that are hard to beat.

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

Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, corn, or even switch up the beans based on your preference.

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

Cooking time is approximately 8 hours on low or 5 hours on high in your slow cooker.

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

This chili pairs well with rice, tortilla chips, avocado, cheese, or sour cream—perfect for a hearty meal!

Final Thoughts

The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s great for batch cooking and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone!