Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne Recipe: A Flavorful & Easy Weeknight Meal

This slow cooker chilli con carne recipe is your new go-to for a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy weeknight meal. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe requires minimal prep and lets your slow cooker do all the hard work, resulting in a tender, deeply satisfying chili. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to serving suggestions, ensuring you achieve chili perfection every time.

Ingredients for the Best Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

This recipe makes a generous serving, easily feeding 6-8 people. Adjust quantities as needed.

• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that savory punch.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds a slightly different sweetness and texture.
• 1 lb ground beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. Ground turkey or a beef/turkey blend also works well.
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The base of your chili.
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds texture and fiber.
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Another excellent bean choice for chili.
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained: Adds spice and flavor.
• 1 tbsp chili powder: The foundation of chili flavor. Adjust to your spice preference.
• 1 tsp cumin: Earthy and warm, complements the chili powder beautifully.
• 1 tsp oregano: Adds a herby freshness.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds depth and smokiness.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For extra heat.
• 1 tsp salt: Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground is best.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds richness and helps to tenderize the meat.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Slow Cooker Chili

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.

3. Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, Rotel, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Pour in the beef broth.

4. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.

5. Serve and enjoy: Serve your chili hot, topped with your favorite garnishes.

Serving Suggestions & Garnishes for Your Chili

• Shredded cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are all great choices.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds a cool, creamy contrast to the heat of the chili.
• Chopped green onions: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
• Avocado: Creamy and delicious.
• Tortilla chips: For dipping or crunching.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Don't over-season: You can always add more seasoning later, but it's harder to take it away.
• Taste and adjust: Taste the chili before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.
• Experiment with different beans: Black beans, white beans, or even a mix of beans can be used.
• Add other vegetables: Consider adding corn, diced carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

This slow cooker chili con carne recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation and delicious taste make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Enjoy!