The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is the ultimate comfort food, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe stands out with its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Whether you’re hosting a game night or meal prepping for the week, The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is your go-to dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With minimal prep and set-it-and-forget-it cooking, this dish fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and rich beef creates a robust taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile: Customize your chilli by adding extra veggies or toppings like avocado and tortilla chips to suit everyone’s tastes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze leftovers for later.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this chilli is a nutritious choice without compromising on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, resulting in tender meat and melded flavors as it cooks slowly over hours.
• Skillet: Browning your beef first adds depth of flavor to the chilli before it goes into the slow cooker.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your spices are balanced perfectly for a delicious outcome.

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Ingredients

Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is a simple and healthy homemade dinner perfect for batch cooking and feeding a crowd.

For the Chilli Base

• 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)

For Flavoring

• 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 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 ground beef, diced onions, and minced garlic to the skillet.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes until the beef is browned and onions are soft.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once browned:
1. Transfer the beef mixture to the bowl of your slow cooker.
2. Add all remaining ingredients to the slow cooker.
3. Stir everything together to combine well.

Step 3: Slow Cook Your Chilli

Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5 hours. When finished:
1. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Serve with rice, avocado, tortilla chips, cheese, or sour cream according to preference.

How to Serve The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Serving your The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delicious suggestions to complement your dish.

With Rice

• Serve the chilli over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal. Brown or white rice both work well, soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Avocado Slices

• Fresh avocado adds a creamy texture and balances the heat of the chilli. Slice it just before serving to maintain freshness.

Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips make an excellent side for dipping. They add a nice contrast in texture and are perfect for scooping up the chilli.

Cheese

• Shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, melts beautifully over hot chilli, enhancing its richness. Sprinkle generously on top before serving.

Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream adds a cool and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with spicy dishes. It’s also great for tempering heat.

Fresh Cilantro

• Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Its bright notes enhance the overall taste of your chilli.

How to Perfect The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

To ensure you achieve the best results with your The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, consider these helpful tips.

• Use lean beef – Opt for 5% fat mince beef to keep your dish healthier while still rich in flavor.
• Brown the meat – Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its depth of flavor; take this extra step for maximum taste.
• Adjust spice levels – Start with less chilli powder if you’re sensitive to spice, then adjust according to your preference during cooking.
• Incorporate vegetables – Adding bell peppers or carrots can boost nutrition and add sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Let it rest – Allowing the chili to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together even more.
• Store properly – Leftover chilli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer shelf life.

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

Pairing side dishes with your The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne can turn a simple meal into an extraordinary feast. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread
2. This classic side is slightly sweet and complements the savory flavors of chilli perfectly. Bake fresh cornbread or use a mix for quick preparation.
3. Coleslaw
4. A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to warm chilli. Its tangy dressing can help cut through richness while adding texture.
5. Baked Potatoes
6. Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a filling base that can be topped with chilli, cheese, or sour cream, creating a complete meal.
7. Garlic Bread
8. Crispy garlic bread is perfect for sopping up leftover sauce from your bowl. It’s quick to make and always popular at dinner time.
9. Grilled Vegetables
10. Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and health benefits while being easy to prepare on a grill or skillet.
11. Quinoa Salad
12. A light quinoa salad offers protein and fiber, making it a nutritious partner to your hearty chilli without overpowering its flavors.
13. Pickled Jalapeños
14. For those who love extra heat, serving pickled jalapeños on the side lets guests customize their meal according to their spice tolerance.
15. Cucumber Salad
16. A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and coolness; toss cucumbers with vinegar and herbs for an easy side dish that balances out spicy flavours.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your chilli con carne turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the browning step: Browning your beef, onions, and garlic adds depth of flavor. Make sure to take this step seriously for the best taste.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh and high-quality ingredients make a difference. Invest in good beef and ripe tomatoes for a richer flavor.
• Not seasoning adequately: Chilli needs bold flavors. Taste your dish during cooking and adjust seasonings as necessary to achieve the perfect balance.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Timing is crucial! Follow the recommended cooking times closely to ensure your chilli is tender but not mushy.
• Ignoring storage tips: Proper storage can affect taste and texture. Be sure to follow guidelines for cooling and storing leftover chilli.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chilli to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chilli in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Transfer the chilli to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, read on!

What makes this the BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne?

This recipe combines flavorful ingredients with simple steps, making it both delicious and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I customize my slow cooker chilli?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker?

Cooking time is approximately 8 hours on low or 5 hours on high. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes! With lean beef and plenty of beans and vegetables, it’s packed with protein and fiber while remaining lower in fat.

Can I use other meats besides beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option while still enjoying a hearty meal.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. Its simplicity allows for numerous customization options based on your preferences. Try it today; you’re bound to love it!