Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne
The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne is the perfect blend of hearty flavors and cozy warmth. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with tender meat, zesty beans, and spices that create a deliciously satisfying meal. Make it tonight and enjoy the comforting taste of home!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Large Pot
- Grater
- Cutting Board
- Slow Cooker
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 30 ounces fire roasted tomatoes
- 4 1/2 ounces green chilies
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 30 ounces kidney beans, drained
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 2 to 3 cups water, depending on thickness preferred
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, part-skim, shredded (optional)
Instructions
- First, let's get started by browning the ground turkey or beef and onion together in a large pot. Over medium heat, cook until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. This step is essential as it develops a rich flavor base. Be sure to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once the meat is cooked through, drain off any excess fat. Then, add the cooked meat and onion to your slow cooker. This is where the magic begins to happen as you mix in all the remaining ingredients.
- Next, add in the tomato paste, fire roasted tomatoes, green chilies, chili powder, black pepper, kosher salt, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, kidney beans, and cocoa powder to the slow cooker. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor, creating a perfect harmony.
- Now, pour in the water, which helps to adjust the thickness of the chili. You can start with 2 cups and add more if you prefer a thinner consistency. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover the slow cooker, set it to low, and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re short on time, you can set it to high for 3 to 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together into a comforting, rich chili.
- About 30 minutes before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add more salt or pepper to suit your personal preference. This is where you can make it truly your own.
- When it's almost time to serve, you can prepare any garnishes you desire. A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese on top adds a delightful creaminess that really takes this chili to the next level.
- Finally, ladle the Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne into bowls, and enjoy it hot with your favorite toppings. This dish is perfect for gatherings, and everyone will be coming back for seconds!
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to four days.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, this chili freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months.
- Pairing: Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal experience.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or other vegetables if you want to sneak in some extra nutrition.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of chili powder and crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.