If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, look no further than this fantastic Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe. It’s a rich, flavorful blend of lean ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and a perfect hit of spices that slow-cook to perfection, making your kitchen smell incredible and your taste buds dance. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a true champion in hassle-free, tasty dinners that satisfy every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe is built on simple, wholesome ingredients that pack incredible flavor, texture, and color into every bite. Each component plays its own essential role, from tender ground beef to vibrant vegetables and the spice mix that ties everything together into a perfect harmony.
- 3 lbs. extra lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein while keeping the chili lean and less greasy.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
- 1 large green pepper, chopped: Brings freshness and a slight crunch that balances the richness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that wakes up your palate.
- 1 28 oz. can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, tangy base that holds the chili together.
- 1 28 oz. can diced tomatoes, drained: Adds texture and bursts of sweet tomato flavor.
- 1 10.75 oz. can tomato soup: Introduces creaminess and enhances the tomato depth.
- 2 14 oz. cans beans in tomato sauce: Bring both color and a hearty, satisfying bite to the chili.
- 1 15 oz. can kidney beans, rinsed: Classic chili staple offering extra protein and texture.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The star spice that delivers that signature chili heat and earthy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Adds a subtle herbaceous hint balancing the spiciness.
- ½ tablespoon dried basil: Brings a touch of aromatic sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the chili.
- Sour cream, grated cheese, sliced green onions for garnish: Optional toppings that boost creaminess, sharpness, and brightness.
How to Make Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding the extra lean ground beef. Scramble and fry it for about 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. This step ensures your meat is flavorful and the perfect base for your chili.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Next, toss in the chopped onion, green pepper, and minced garlic. Keep stirring for another 5 minutes until the beef is no longer pink and the veggies soften slightly. This combination brings layers of sweetness and aromatic richness to the dish.
Step 3: Transfer to the Crockpot
Once everything is nicely browned and fragrant, transfer the whole mixture into your crockpot. This is where the magic of slow cooking really begins to work its wonders.
Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients and Stir
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato soup, beans in tomato sauce, rinsed kidney beans, chili powder, oregano, basil, and salt. Stir well so that every ingredient is evenly distributed, guaranteeing every spoonful will be packed with flavor.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your crockpot on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 6 to 7 hours. This slow and low approach lets all the ingredients meld beautifully, tenderizing the beef and allowing the spices to develop deep, comforting flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
When the chili is ready, scoop it into bowls and add your favorite garnishes like sour cream, grated cheese, or sliced green onions. These finishing touches add creamy, sharp, and fresh notes that perfectly complement the savory chili.
How to Serve Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of good garnishes! Sour cream adds cool creaminess that balances the spice, grated cheese melts into luscious pockets of flavor, and fresh green onions bring a pop of color and subtle crunch.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs beautifully with cornbread, rice, or even simple tortilla chips for scooping. These sides round out the meal perfectly and absorb the delicious chili juices, making every bite extra satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe over baked potatoes, pasta, or inside warm pita bread. You can even transform leftovers into chili-topped nachos or chili-topped fries for a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chili keeps remarkably well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve that fresh, hearty flavor. It’s a perfect candidate for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully, making it an ideal freezer meal. Let the chili cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months, ready to warm up whenever you want a comforting meal in a flash.
Reheating
Reheat your Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used for different flavors and textures. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add more beans, vegetables, or even textured vegetable protein. You can also boost flavor with extra spices or smoked paprika for that smoky effect.
How spicy is this Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe?
This recipe has a moderate level of heat thanks to the chili powder, but you can always adjust it to your taste. Add jalapeños or cayenne pepper for more kick, or reduce chili powder for a milder version.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance before slow cooking?
Definitely. You can brown the beef and chop the veggies a day ahead, storing them in the fridge. Then just assemble everything in the crockpot on the day you plan to cook it.
What are some good toppings to go with this chili?
Besides sour cream, cheese, and green onions, consider avocado slices, fresh cilantro, jalapeño slices, or crushed tortilla chips. These add texture and flavor contrasts that elevate the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that makes cooking delicious, wholesome meals so easy and satisfying. Whether you’re a chili newbie or a seasoned fan, this recipe delivers bold, comforting flavors with minimal fuss. Open your crockpot, let the delicious aromas fill your home, and enjoy every hearty, spoonful of this ultimate comfort food.
Print
Crockpot Chili Con Carne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Crockpot Chili Con Carne is a hearty and flavorful slow-cooked stew featuring extra lean ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a warming meal, it simmers gently in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Serve it topped with sour cream, grated cheese, and sliced green onions for a satisfying dinner that feeds a crowd.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs. extra lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 large green pepper, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1 (28 oz.) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (10.75 oz.) can tomato soup
- 2 (14 oz.) cans beans in tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz.) can kidney beans, rinsed
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Garnishes
- Sour cream
- Grated cheese
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, scramble-fry the ground beef for about 5 minutes until it begins to brown.
- Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, green pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for an additional 5 minutes or until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables have softened.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Once cooked, transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into the crockpot.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, tomato soup, beans in tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and salt. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Chili: Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the chili into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes such as sour cream, grated cheese, and sliced green onions for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and keep the chili hearty but healthy.
- For a spicier chili, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
- If kidney beans are unavailable, substitute with black beans or pinto beans.
- Drain canned tomatoes well to prevent the chili from becoming too watery.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
