Last week, I found myself at a crossroads, wondering what to prepare for dinner with minimal effort. That's when the Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne came to mind, a recipe I've turned to countless times. It combines the heartiness of ground beef with a medley of spices and beans, simmering to perfection while I'm occupied with other tasks. If you're curious about how to achieve that rich, comforting flavor without spending hours in the kitchen, you might want to explore the details of this simple yet satisfying dish.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
This Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne recipe is a delightful and comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Packed with bold flavors and easy preparation, it's perfect for busy weeknights and gatherings alike.
- Effortless preparation: Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
- Rich and hearty flavors: The slow cooking process allows the spices and ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a deliciously satisfying meal.
- Customizable to your taste: You can easily adjust the level of heat and add your favorite toppings for a personalized chili experience.
Recipe
This Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne recipe is a delicious and hearty meal that's perfect for a cozy night in or feeding a crowd.
It combines tender beef, rich tomatoes, and a variety of spices for a flavor explosion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the beef to the slow cooker and add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, beans, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until well combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Notes:
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
This chili also freezes well; simply store in airtight containers for up to three months.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Servings: 6
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Equipment
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What to Serve With This Recipe
When I whip up a pot of slow cooker chili con carne, I love thinking about what to serve with it.
Classic rice is always a hit, but crunchy tortilla chips add a fun twist, too!
And don't forget a fresh salad or some creamy guacamole to balance everything out—warm cornbread slices are perfect for scooping up every last bit!
Classic Rice Pairing
Pairing your Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne with classic rice can elevate the meal experience remarkably.
I love using fluffy jasmine or hearty brown rice, depending on my mood. If you're feeling bold, try spicing it up with some Mexican rice to match the spice levels of your chili.
Trust me, a perfect rice type really adds that comforting touch to each bite!
Crunchy Tortilla Chips
Crunchy tortilla chips are a fantastic addition to your Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne.
When it comes to tortilla chip flavors, I love experimenting with zesty lime or spicy jalapeño. They serve as perfect crunchy toppings, adding extra texture and fun to each bite.
Just grab a handful, scoop up that delicious chilli, and enjoy the blissful combination. Trust me, you won't regret it!
Fresh Green Salad
A fresh green salad brings an invigorating contrast to the hearty richness of Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne.
I love using fresh ingredients like crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers. Toss in a variety of salad dressings for a zesty kick!
It's light and revitalizing, making it the perfect side dish when I want to enjoy my meal without feeling heavy.
Creamy Guacamole Dip
When I'm enjoying my Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, I can't resist the creamy goodness of guacamole dip on the side.
It's not just delicious; the guacamole benefits, like healthy fats and vitamins, make it a smart choice too.
With just the right amount of lime and salt, it's the perfect seasoning to elevate my meal.
Plus, who doesn't love that creamy texture?
Warm Cornbread Slices
While savoring my Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, I always appreciate the addition of warm cornbread slices on the side.
The buttery warmth and slightly sweet flavor of different cornbread varieties perfectly complement the spices in the chili.
If you want to bake your own, just remember these baking tips: use buttermilk for moisture and add jalapeños for a fun kick! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian or Vegan?
I often swap meat for vegetarian substitutions like lentils or beans. For vegan options, add more veggies and use vegetable broth. It's a delicious way to enjoy chili without sacrificing flavor or freedom!
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
Ah, leftover storage! I've found that most leftovers can safely chill in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. Just remember to use airtight containers for best food safety and enjoy your freedom from waste!
Can I Freeze This Chili for Later Use?
Absolutely, I can freeze this chili for later! I love using freezer bags for easy storage. When it's time to reheat, just thaw overnight in the fridge; makes for a hassle-free meal whenever I crave it!
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef in This Recipe?
If you're looking to substitute ground beef, I've found that black beans or lentil meat work fantastic. They're hearty and add great flavor, giving you that freedom to enjoy a delicious, meat-free chili!
How Spicy Is This Chili Recipe, and Can I Adjust It?
I find this chili recipe's spice scale can cater to everyone's taste. If it's too spicy, just reduce the peppers. Want more heat? I recommend adding jalapeños or chili powder for a bolder kick!
