Chili con carne is the ultimate comfort food, especially when it’s made in a slow cooker. Imagine coming home to a warm, savory aroma wafting through your house, hinting at the delicious meal waiting for you. This easy slow cooker chili con carne recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without the fuss.
This recipe brings together tender beef, zesty tomatoes, and a blend of spices that create a rich, robust flavor. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Plus, you can make it in advance and let it simmer all day while you go about your routine.
The Comfort of Chili Con Carne
Chili con carne holds a special place in the world of comfort food. The combination of tender ground beef, hearty kidney beans, and zesty tomatoes creates an inviting dish that warms the soul.
Its rich and robust flavor profile makes it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With the ability to be prepared ahead of time, it allows you to enjoy a satisfying meal without the last-minute rush.
Ingredients That Matter
The heart of chili con carne lies in its ingredients. Ground beef lends a satisfying texture, while kidney beans add substance and nutrition. The diced tomatoes provide a burst of flavor and moisture, enhancing the entire dish.
Spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika contribute depth, crafting a blend that tantalizes the taste buds. Topped with cheese, sour cream, and green onions, each bowl becomes a delightful experience.
Slow Cooking Magic
Using a slow cooker transforms the cooking process into a seamless experience. The low and slow method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a chili that is both hearty and deeply satisfying.
With just a few minutes of preparation, you can set the stage for a meal that simmers away, filling your home with enticing aromas, while you go about your day.
Perfect Pairings
Chili con carne is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides. Cornbread is a classic choice, its sweetness balancing the savory flavors of the chili.
Rice or tortilla chips also complement the dish, making for a complete and enjoyable dining experience. Each bite can be customized to your liking, adding another layer of enjoyment.
Serving and Enjoying
When it’s time to serve, ladle the steaming chili into bowls. The final touches of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
This colorful presentation invites everyone to dig in, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Gather around the table and enjoy the warmth of good food and great company.
Nutrition and Satisfaction
A bowl of chili con carne is not only delicious but also nutritious. Each serving provides a balanced mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, making it a filling option. With around 350 calories per bowl, it’s a hearty choice that leaves you satisfied.
This dish embodies the joy of sharing good food, proving that a simple meal can bring people together. Comfort, flavor, and nourishment—chili con carne truly has it all.
The Perfect Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne
This slow cooker chili con carne is a hearty dish packed with ground beef, kidney beans, and spices. It’s thick, savory, and bursting with flavor, making it a satisfying meal that pairs perfectly with rice, cornbread, or tortilla chips.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, combine the browned beef, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the flavors meld and the chili thickens.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
