Crockpot Chili Con Carne is the ultimate comfort dish that promises a delightful blend of flavors and aromas, evoking warmth and nostalgia in every bite. This hearty stew is perfect for family gatherings, game days, or a cozy weekend meal. With its rich combination of spices and the satisfying texture of beans and meat, this recipe is not only easy to follow but also a fantastic, step-by-step way to bring everyone to the table.

Ingredients

For this delightful Crockpot Chili Con Carne, you’ll need a selection of ingredients that contribute to its rich flavor and fulfilling texture. Here’s what you’ll be gathering:

• 3 lbs. extra lean ground beef – Full of robust meatiness while staying juicy and tender.
• 1 medium onion (chopped) – Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation to the dish.
• 1 large green pepper (chopped) – Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the other ingredients.
• 4 garlic cloves (minced) – Infuses the chili with a delightful, intense aroma.
• 1 28 oz. can tomato sauce – Creates a luscious, tangy base that complements the spiciness.
• 1 28 oz. can diced tomatoes (drained) – Adds juicy bursts of flavor throughout each bite.
• 1 10.75 oz. can tomato soup – Enhances creaminess, making the chili sumptuous.
• 2 14 oz. can beans in tomato sauce – Brings hearty texture along with sweet notes.
• 1 15 oz. can kidney beans (rinsed) – Offers an earthiness that balances the spice.
• 2 tablespoons chili powder – The star of the show that deeply flavors the dish.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano – Adds a hint of earthiness and depth.
• ½ tablespoon dried basil – Introduces a subtle sweetness that elevates the chili.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing flavors.
• Sour cream, grated cheese, sliced green onions for garnish – These toppings introduce coolness and additional texture to your servings.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the extra lean ground beef. Scramble fry for about 5 minutes until browned. This step not only cooks the meat but also develops a rich, caramelized flavor that enhances the entire dish.

2. Add Vegetables: To the skillet, add the chopped onion, green pepper, and minced garlic. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring often, until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender. This aromatic mixture will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering scents.

3. Combine in Crockpot: Transfer the cooked beef and veggie mixture to your crockpot.

4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato soup, and both cans of beans. Sprinkle the chili powder, oregano, basil, and salt over the mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

5. Cooking Time: Set your crockpot to cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours. This slow cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, satisfying chili.

6. Serve and Garnish: Once the cooking time is complete, ladle the chili into bowls. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of grated cheese, and sliced green onions for a fresh finish.

Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the spice: If you prefer a spicier chili, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Load it up: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like corn or zucchini to enhance the recipe.
• Beef alternatives: Ground turkey or chicken can substitute for beef if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Crockpot Chili Con Carne is incredibly versatile. Serve it with cornbread for a sweet contrast, or pair it with tortilla chips for added crunch. It also goes wonderfully with a light salad or simple steamed rice to balance the richness of the chili. This dish is perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or watching the big game.

Nutritional Information

This delicious Crockpot Chili Con Carne offers a hearty serving with approximately 450 calories per bowl, depending on portion size and toppings. It’s packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the beans and meat, making it a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on nutrition.

Storing Tips & Variations

Store leftover Crockpot Chili Con Carne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a double batch; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave. For a vegetarian twist, swap the meat for mushrooms or lentils and adjust the seasoning to taste.

Conclusion

Crockpot Chili Con Carne is not only a simple dish to prepare, but it also brings everyone together around the dinner table. Its robust flavors and comforting warmth make it a must-try for any chili lover. Give it a shot and share your experience—let us know how your family enjoys this classic recipe!

FAQs

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
   Yes, canned beans are perfect for this recipe as they save time and are easy to use. Just make sure to drain and rinse them.

2. Can I make this chili without meat?
   Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and adding more beans or lentils.

3. How spicy is this chili?
   The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. For mild chili, use less chili powder or omit spicy ingredients.

4. What toppings can I use?
   Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, avocado, or even hot sauce for those who like it spicy!

5. How do I know when the chili is done?
   The chili is ready when the ingredients are heated through, and the flavors have melded after sufficient cooking time. The beef should be fully cooked without any pink remaining.

Crockpot Chili Con Carne

A hearty and flavorful chili that brings warmth and comfort, perfect for gatherings or cozy weekends.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 hours hrs

Total Time 4 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 3 lbs extra lean ground beef Full of robust meatiness while staying juicy and tender.
• 1 medium onion, chopped Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation to the dish.
• 1 large green pepper, chopped Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the chili with a delightful aroma.
• 1 can 28 oz. tomato sauce Creates a luscious, tangy base.
• 1 can 28 oz. diced tomatoes, drained Adds juicy bursts of flavor.
• 1 can 10.75 oz. tomato soup Enhances creaminess of the chili.
• 2 cans 14 oz. beans in tomato sauce Brings hearty texture with sweet notes.
• 1 can 15 oz. kidney beans, rinsed Offers an earthiness that balances spice.

Spices and Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons chili powder The star of the show for flavor.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano Adds earthiness and depth.
• ½ tablespoon dried basil Introduces subtle sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon salt Essential enhancer of flavors.

Garnishes

• sour cream For topping.
• grated cheese For topping.
• sliced green onions For topping.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the extra lean ground beef. Scramble fry for about 5 minutes until browned.
2. Add the chopped onion, green pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring often.
3. Transfer the cooked beef and veggie mixture to your crockpot.

Cooking

1. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato soup, and both cans of beans. Sprinkle the chili powder, oregano, basil, and salt over the mixture.
2. Set your crockpot to cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours.

Serving

1. Once the cooking time is complete, ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with sour cream, grated cheese, and sliced green onions.

Notes

Adjust spice level by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper. You can also add other vegetables like corn or zucchini. For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.