The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Easy slow cooker chilli con carne is the perfect dish to warm your home and satisfy your taste buds. This recipe combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients, making it suitable for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep for the week. The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Just toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and cocoa powder gives this chilli a depth of flavor that will impress everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with tortilla chips, or topped with avocado—customize it to your liking!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother. Below are some essential items you’ll need to whip up this easy slow cooker chilli con carne.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring flavors meld beautifully over time.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning meat and vegetables before slow cooking, enhancing flavor.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safely chopping vegetables, ensuring uniform cooking.

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

• 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

If you prefer browned meat, heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot:
1. Add the mince beef, diced onions, and minced garlic.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes until the beef is browned and onions are soft.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Once browned:
1. Transfer the beef mixture into your slow cooker.
2. Add in all remaining ingredients including diced celery, chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, mixed beans, beef stock, dried thyme, chilli powder, cumin, cocoa powder or dark chocolate square, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Cook the Chilli

Set your slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours:
– Allow all flavors to meld together during this time.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning & Serve

When cooked:
– Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
– Serve with rice, avocado slices, tortilla chips, cheese, or sour cream according to preference.

How to Serve The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

Serving your Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne can elevate the dining experience, making it fun and versatile. Here are some great suggestions for serving that will complement the rich flavors of the dish.

With Rice

• Consider serving over fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the chili’s flavors, creating a delightful combination.

Topped with Avocado

• Fresh avocado slices add creaminess to the dish. They balance the spice and enhance the overall texture of each bite.

Accompanied by Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy tortilla chips provide a satisfying contrast to the soft chili. Use them as dippers for a fun and interactive way to enjoy your meal.

Sprinkled with Cheese

• Adding shredded cheese on top can create a deliciously melty layer. Cheese complements the spices and adds richness to each serving.

Finished with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream can cool down the heat while adding a tangy flavor. It’s perfect for those who prefer milder tastes.

How to Perfect The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

To make your Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne even better, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring vibrant flavors to your chili, making it more delicious.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the chili powder according to your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure, then gradually increase.
• Incorporate Different Beans: Mixing various beans can add different textures and nutritional benefits to your dish.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let your chili sit for 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne can enhance its flavor profile. Here are some excellent choices that complement this hearty meal perfectly.

1. Cornbread
   A sweet and crumbly cornbread is an ideal match. Its texture pairs well with the chili’s richness and adds a comforting touch.
2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the savory depth of the chili.
3. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole complements spicy flavors while adding healthy fats, making it a perfect dip or topping.
4. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini or bell peppers provide a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with chili.
5. Baked Potatoes
   Fluffy baked potatoes are great for serving chili on top or alongside, offering a filling option for diners.
6. Garden Salad
   A light garden salad brings freshness to the table, enhancing your meal with crisp textures and vibrant colors.
7. Mexican Rice
   Flavorful Mexican rice cooked with spices can be an excellent base under your chili, providing additional taste layers.
8. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the heavier elements of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Skipping the browning step: Browning the beef enhances the flavor of your chilli. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth to the dish.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker: If you add too many ingredients, it may not cook evenly. Stick to the recipe proportions for best results.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your chilli before serving. You might need to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a noticeable difference in flavor. Opt for good-quality beef and fresh vegetables.
• Ignoring cooking times: Slow cooking is key for flavor development. Follow the suggested cooking times for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

You can serve this dish with rice, tortilla chips, avocado, cheese, or sour cream for a delightful meal.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey in this recipe while maintaining similar cooking times.

How do I spice up The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne?

You can increase the amount of chilli powder or add fresh jalapeños for more heat if desired.

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

Cooking on low takes about 8 hours, while high heat requires around 5 hours for perfect tenderness.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne is not only simple but also adaptable to various tastes. Feel free to customize it with different beans or spices according to your preference. This dish is perfect for gatherings and meal prep!