Olivia Carter
If you’re in the mood for a hearty and delicious meal, look no further than this slow cooker chili con carne recipe. Packed with flavourful spices, tender chunks of beef, and a rich tomato base, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm you up from the inside out.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s made in a slow cooker, which means minimal effort on your part. Simply toss all the ingredients into the pot, set the timer, and let the magic happen. The slow cooker allows the flavours to meld together, creating a dish that is full of depth and complexity.
Another great thing about this chili con carne recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your own taste preferences by adjusting the amount of spices or adding in extra ingredients like beans or vegetables. Whether you like your chili mild and mellow or spicy and bold, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your needs.
Ingredients
When it comes to making the best slow cooker chili con carne, it’s all about the ingredients you use. Here are some key ingredients to gather before getting started:
- Ground beef: You’ll need about 2 pounds of ground beef for this recipe. Choose a good quality lean beef to ensure a flavorful and tender result.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatic vegetables are essential for adding depth and flavor to the chili. Chop the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
- Black beans: One can of black beans is needed to provide a hearty and satisfying texture to the chili. Make sure to drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes will serve as the base for the chili. Look for high-quality canned tomatoes that are free of additives and preservatives.
- Chili powder: This classic spice is the key to achieving the signature chili flavor. Add as much or as little as you prefer, depending on your spice tolerance.
- Cumin: Ground cumin adds a warm and earthy flavor to the chili. Use about a tablespoon for a well-balanced taste.
- Beef broth: This liquid will help to create a rich and flavorful sauce for the chili. Choose a low-sodium beef broth for best results.
- Salt and pepper: Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to adjust the seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
These ingredients, along with a few others, will come together to create a delicious and hearty slow cooker chili con carne. Keep them handy as you prepare to make this mouth-watering dish.
Instructions:
Follow these steps to make the best slow cooker chili con carne:
1. Prepare the ingredients:
- Finely chop the onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
- Drain and rinse the kidney beans.
- Dice the tomatoes.
- Mince the fresh chili for added heat, if desired.
2. Sauté the vegetables:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers, and sauté until softened.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.
3. Brown the ground beef:
- In the same skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain any excess fat and add the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
4. Add the remaining ingredients:
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and salt to the slow cooker.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cook the chili:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor distribution.
6. Adjust the seasoning:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more chili powder, cumin, or salt.
- Optional: Add a pinch of sugar or a splash of lime juice to balance the flavors.
7. Serve and enjoy:
- Ladle the hot chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or cilantro.
- Enjoy your delicious slow cooker chili con carne!
Tips for Making Delicious Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne
Chili con carne is a classic dish that is perfect for warming up on a cold day. And what better way to make it than in a slow cooker? The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and juicy. Here are some tips to help you make the best slow cooker chili con carne:
1. Choose the Right Cut of Meat: When making chili con carne in a slow cooker, it’s important to choose the right cut of meat. Opt for a tough cut like chuck roast or beef stew meat. These cuts will become tender and flavorful as they simmer in the slow cooker.
2. Sear the Meat Beforehand: To enhance the flavor of the chili con carne, it’s a good idea to sear the meat before adding it to the slow cooker. This will help to develop a rich and caramelized crust on the meat, which will add depth to the final dish.
3. Use a variety of Spices: Chili con carne is all about the spices. Be sure to use a combination of spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano to add depth and complexity to the dish. You can also add some heat with cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
4. Don’t overcook the Beans: If you’re using beans in your chili con carne, it’s important not to overcook them. Adding canned beans towards the end of the cooking process will ensure that they retain their texture and don’t turn mushy.
5. Let it Simmer: The slow cooker is all about low and slow cooking. Let your chili con carne simmer on low heat for at least 6 to 8 hours to allow the flavors to develop fully. This will result in a delicious and flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering slow cooker chili con carne that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Optional Toppings
When it comes to serving chili con carne, there are plenty of optional toppings that you can add to enhance the flavors and textures of this classic dish. These toppings can provide an extra layer of taste and visual appeal, making your chili con carne even more delicious.
Cheese: One of the most popular toppings for chili con carne is cheese. Whether it’s shredded cheddar, Monterey jack, or crumbled queso fresco, adding cheese to your chili can give it a creamy and indulgent touch. The melted cheese on top creates a gooey and flavorful addition to each spoonful.
Sour Cream: Another common topping for chili con carne is sour cream. The cool and tangy flavor of sour cream contrasts perfectly with the rich and spicy chili. It also provides a creamy and smooth texture that complements the hearty beans and meat.
- Chopped Red Onion: For a fresh and crunchy element, you can add some chopped red onion on top of your chili con carne. The sharp and pungent flavor of the onion pairs well with the robust flavors of the chili, and it adds a nice pop of color to the dish.
- Fresh Cilantro: If you enjoy the fresh and citrusy taste of cilantro, you can sprinkle some chopped cilantro leaves on top of your chili. The bright green herb adds a vibrant and aromatic element to the dish, elevating its overall presentation.
- Jalapenos: If you like some heat, you can slice or dice some jalapenos to add a spicy kick to your chili con carne. The jalapenos provide a fiery flavor that complements the richness of the chili, adding an extra layer of complexity to each bite.
- Tortilla Strips: For a crispy and satisfying texture, you can sprinkle some tortilla strips on top of your chili. These thin and crunchy strips add a delicious crunch to each spoonful, providing a contrast to the tender beans and meat.
These optional toppings can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to mix and match them or choose your favorites to create a chili con carne that is uniquely yours. Experimenting with different toppings can add an exciting twist to this classic recipe and make your chili con carne even more enjoyable to eat.
Storage and Reheating
Once you’ve enjoyed your slow cooker chili con carne, you may have leftovers that need to be stored properly. Here are some tips for storing and reheating your chili:
- Allow your chili to cool completely before storing it. Leaving it out at room temperature for too long can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
- Transfer the chili to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. Make sure to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of when it was made.
- If you’re planning to store the chili in the refrigerator, it can generally last for 3-4 days. For longer storage, place it in the freezer.
- To reheat the chili, you can use a microwave, stovetop, or even the slow cooker itself. If using the microwave, make sure to cover the chili with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to prevent splatters.
- If reheating on the stovetop, place the chili in a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- When using the slow cooker to reheat, transfer the chili back to the slow cooker and heat on low for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired temperature.
- Remember to stir the chili occasionally during the reheating process to ensure even heating.
In conclusion, with this easy and delicious slow cooker chili con carne recipe, you can enjoy a warm and comforting meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it right away or saving it for later, the flavors will only continue to improve as they meld together. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a hearty bowl of homemade chili con carne.
10 Best Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne Recipe
Nalley Thick Chili Con Carne 2-Pack
Bulk Chili Powder for Versatile Cooking
Features
| Release Date | 2018-06-11T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 6 Pound (Pack of 3) |
Ballow's Award Winning Chili Seasoning
Features
| Size | 1 Ounce (Pack of 12) |
Dennison's Chunky Chili Con Carne
Features
| Size | 15 Ounce (Pack of 12) |
Crispy Tri-Colored Tortilla Strips
Features
| Release Date | 2007-12-29T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 16 Ounce (Pack of 10) |
Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Set
Features
| Part Number | 2108390 |
| Model | 2108390 |
| Color | Clear |
| Release Date | 2019-09-27T00:00:01Z |
| Size | Set of 12 Assorted Containers |
FAQ
How should food be stored in the refrigerator?
Food should be stored in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil to help prevent spoilage and keep it fresh.
What is the best way to reheat leftover food?
The best way to reheat leftover food is to use a microwave or oven. Make sure to evenly distribute the heat and stir the food occasionally for even reheating.
Can you store food in the freezer for a long time?
Yes, you can store food in the freezer for a long time. It is recommended to use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the food.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper storage and reheating techniques are essential for ensuring food safety and maintaining the quality of our meals. By following these guidelines, we can prevent foodborne illnesses and make the most out of our leftovers. Remember to store food in airtight containers, refrigerate perishable items promptly, and reheat dishes thoroughly to kill any harmful bacteria. Additionally, be mindful of the recommended storage times for different types of food. By taking these precautions, we can enjoy delicious and safe meals every time.
