The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is a perfect dish for those busy weeknights or gatherings. This recipe makes a hearty meal that is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Ideal for batch cooking, it caters to families or any crowd with ease. Enjoy the rich taste of spices combined with healthy ingredients and let your slow cooker do all the work!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ease of Preparation: Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a deliciously rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, alongside tortilla chips, or top with avocado – you can mix and match as you like!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean beef, vegetables, and beans, this dish offers a nutritious meal full of protein and fiber.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make the BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s 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, which enhances flavors and tenderizes meats beautifully.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning meat before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds depth to the flavor.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and effortless, ensuring even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients together without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

• 500 g 5% fat mince beef (ground beef)
• 1 medium red onion (diced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 stalks celery (diced)

Canned Goods

• 400 g tin chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 400 g tin mixed beans in chilli sauce

Liquids and Seasonings

• 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: Browning the Beef

If you prefer added depth in flavor, brown the beef first.
1. Heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Once hot, add the mince beef along with diced onions and minced garlic.
3. Cook for about 10 minutes until browned.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Once the beef is browned:
1. Add it to your slow cooker bowl.
2. Include all remaining ingredients: chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, mixed beans in sauce, beef stock, thyme, chilli powder, cumin, cocoa powder or chocolate, and smoked paprika.
3. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Cooking Time

1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5 hours.
3. When done cooking, taste the chili con carne and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Serve Your Dish

Serve your delicious chilli con carne hot! Accompany it with rice, slices of avocado, tortilla chips, cheese, or sour cream for an added treat!

How to Serve The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Serving your easy slow cooker chilli con carne can elevate the meal experience. Here are some fantastic suggestions to enhance your dish and cater to various tastes.

With Rice

• Serve over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling and hearty meal. The rice absorbs the flavours of the chilli beautifully.

Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy chilli. Simply slice and serve on top.

Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping into the chilli. They add texture and a fun element to your meal.

Shredded Cheese

• Top your chilli with grated cheese, like cheddar or Monterey Jack, for a rich and creamy finish that melts into the warm dish.

Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and helps balance out the heat from the spices in the chilli.

Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of colour and freshness that enhances the presentation.

How to Perfect The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Making this dish even better is easy with a few simple tips. Consider these suggestions for an outstanding chilli con carne every time.

• Choose quality beef: Selecting lean ground beef ensures a healthier dish while still maintaining rich flavour.
• Add extra veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, carrots, or corn for added nutrition and texture.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less chilli powder based on your preference.
• Use homemade stock: For a richer taste, prepare beef stock from bones or leftover meat instead of using store-bought options.
• Let it rest: Allowing your chilli to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving lets the flavours meld perfectly.
• Freeze leftovers: If you have any leftovers, freeze them in portions for an easy meal later on.

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

Complementing your easy slow cooker chilli con carne with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some top choices:

1. Cornbread
   A sweet, buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with spicy chilli, providing a delightful contrast in flavours.

2. Coleslaw
   This crunchy salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of the chilli with its tangy dressing.

3. Guacamole
   Smooth guacamole made from ripe avocados enhances your meal’s creaminess while adding healthy fats.

4. Baked Potatoes
   Serve baked potatoes as a hearty base for your chilli; they soak up all the delicious flavours wonderfully.

5. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted seasonal vegetables add colour and nutrition while offering a sweet and smoky contrast to the dish.

6. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with diced veggies provides a nutritious side that complements the hearty nature of the chilli.

7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   These cheesy sandwiches are perfect for dipping into your spicy chilli, making every bite satisfying.

8. Crispy Nachos
   Layered nachos topped with cheese and jalapeños make an exciting side that everyone will love!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping Browning the Meat: Browning beef before adding it to the slow cooker enhances flavor. Always take this step for a richer taste.
• Not Measuring Spices Accurately: Too much or too little spice can ruin the balance. Use measuring spoons for precision.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking for too short or too long can affect texture. Follow recommended times closely for best results.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a significant difference. Invest in good produce and meats for superior flavor.
• Overfilling the Slow Cooker: Overcrowding can prevent proper cooking. Ensure your slow cooker is filled to no more than two-thirds capacity.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef if you prefer a lighter option.

How do I customize my chilli?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust spices based on your taste preferences!

What should I serve with chilli con carne?

This dish pairs well with rice, cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad.

Is this chilli recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for batch cooking and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later meals.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and make it your own!