Are you a chili lover looking for a comforting, flavor-packed meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further than the slow cooker chili con carne recipe! This Mexican-inspired dish is a true crowd-pleaser, combining savory spices, tender beef, and a rich, tomato-based sauce that’ll have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of simmering chili, with its complex blend of flavors that have been slowly melding together all day. The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. And the best part? This chili con carne recipe is versatile enough to cater to any dietary preferences or heat level preferences.
Let’s dive into what makes this slow cooker chili con carne recipe truly special. First and foremost, we have the star of the show: the beef. Opt for a cut like chuck or brisket, which becomes incredibly tender and flavorful after hours of low and slow cooking. The beef is seared until beautifully browned, locking in those rich, caramelized flavors that will elevate your chili to new heights.
Next, we have the dynamic blend of spices that gives chili con carne its signature kick. Chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper create a warm, smoky depth that perfectly complements the beef and tomatoes. Adjust the heat level to your liking by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper.
The slow cooker truly shines when it comes to melding flavors. As the chili simmers away, the aromatics like onions, garlic, and bell peppers release their natural sweetness, creating a rich and complex base. The addition of tomatoes, beef broth, and a splash of beer (optional, but highly recommended) adds layers of tanginess and depth, resulting in a sauce that’s utterly irresistible.
But the beauty of this slow cooker chili con carne recipe lies in its versatility. Serve it as is for a hearty and satisfying meal, or dress it up with your favorite toppings. Shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, and fresh cilantro all make fantastic additions, allowing you to customize your chili experience to your taste buds’ delight.
Now, let’s get to the recipe so you can whip up this comforting masterpiece in your own kitchen!
Slow Cooker Chili con Carne Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup beer (optional, but recommended for added depth)
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over high heat. Add the cubed beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Transfer the onion mixture to the slow cooker, along with the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and beer (if using).
4. Stir everything together, making sure the beef is submerged in the liquid.
5. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the kidney beans and pinto beans.
7. Adjust seasoning to taste, if needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
Enjoy this slow cooker chili con carne recipe for a deliciously comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!
