The Easiest Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Crafting a hearty slow cooker chilli con carne brings comfort to your dinner table like nothing else.

Weeknight meals demand simplicity and flavor, which this recipe delivers effortlessly.

Tender beef and rich spices meld together in a magical culinary dance.

Minimal effort yields maximum satisfaction when you let your slow cooker work its magic.

Each bite promises a warmth that wraps you in deliciousness.

Beans, meat, and robust seasonings create a symphony of taste that will make everyone at the table smile.

You won’t believe how simple it is to create such a deeply satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug.

Dive into this recipe and let deliciousness take center stage.

Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne That’s Easy And Filling

• Nutritional Powerhouse: Packed with protein-rich lentils, black beans, and vegetables, this chili delivers a wholesome, balanced dinner that nourishes the body with minimal effort.
• Family-Friendly Comfort: Mild spices and customizable toppings make this chili appealing to all ages, transforming dinnertime into a crowd-pleasing experience that satisfies everyone's taste buds.
• Time-Saving Champion: Minimal prep work and long, hands-off cooking time mean you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights.

Chilli Con Carne Slow Cooker Basics

• Dry Green Or Brown Lentils: Hearty plant-based protein source that provides texture and bulk to the chili.
• Black Beans: Additional protein and fiber with a creamy texture that complements the lentils.

• Onion, Green Bell Pepper, Red Bell Pepper: Aromatic base that adds depth of flavor and nutritional value.
• Jalapeno Pepper: Brings heat and spicy kick to the dish, adjustable for personal preference.
• Garlic: Provides robust flavor foundation and enhances overall taste profile.
• Frozen Corn: Sweet element that adds texture and color to the chili.

• Crushed Tomatoes: Rich, tangy base that creates the sauce's foundation.
• Vegetable Broth: Adds moisture and enhances overall flavor complexity.
• Salsa: Introduces additional flavor layers and texture.
• Chili Powder, Ground Cumin, Dried Oregano, Smoked Paprika: Signature spice blend that defines classic chili flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing overall seasoning.
• Fresh Cilantro: Bright, fresh herb for garnishing and adding final flavor notes.

Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne Steps

Step 1: Prepare Slow Cooker Ingredients

• Lentils
• Onion
• Green bell pepper
• Red bell pepper
• Jalapeño
• Garlic
• Black beans
• Crushed tomatoes
• Vegetable broth
• Corn
• Salsa
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Oregano
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cool water and transfer them directly into the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Colorful Vegetables

Dice the onion, bell peppers, jalapeño, and mince the garlic.

Toss these vibrant ingredients into the slow cooker with the lentils, creating a beautiful medley of colors and textures.

Step 3: Pour In Liquid And Beans

Carefully add black beans, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, corn, and salsa into the slow cooker.

Stir everything gently to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Season With Spices

Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture.

Use a spoon to mix the spices throughout, ensuring every bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 5: Slow Cook To Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the lentils become tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Finish With Fresh Herbs

Just before serving, stir in freshly chopped cilantro to add a bright, fresh note to your chili.

Step 7: Serve And Enjoy

Ladle the steaming chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like pico de gallo, crispy tortilla chips, shredded cheese, or creamy avocado slices.

Enjoy your hearty and nutritious meal!

Slow Cooker Chili Pointers

• Choose fresh, high-quality brown or green lentils for the best texture and faster cooking in your slow cooker.
• Toast spices like cumin and chili powder in a dry pan before adding to enhance their rich, complex taste profile.
• Adjust jalapeño quantity or remove seeds to control spiciness for mild or fiery preferences.
• Replace vegetable broth with beef or chicken stock for non-vegetarian versions, adding extra protein and deeper flavor.
• This chili freezes perfectly for up to 3 months, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

Chilli Con Carne From Slow Cooker Reheats With Ease

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Pour cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, removing excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.
• Transfer chili to a saucepan, add a splash of vegetable broth to prevent sticking, and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Place chili in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming.

Dish Pairings for Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne

• Pair Perfectly with Bold Red Wine: Select a robust Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon that complements the rich, spicy flavors of chili con carne, enhancing each hearty bite with its full-bodied character.
• Create Fresh Cornbread Companion: Bake a slightly sweet, crumbly cornbread with jalapeño chunks to offer a delightful texture contrast and balance the chili's spiciness, providing a classic Southwestern side dish.
• Craft Cooling Lime Margarita: Mix a tangy lime margarita with silver tequila and a salted rim to cut through the chili's intensity, delivering a refreshing counterpoint that cleanses the palate between spicy bites.
• Layer Cool Sour Cream Topping: Dollop fresh, creamy sour cream on top of the chili to create a smooth, cooling element that softens the dish's heat and adds a luxurious, velvety finish to each serving.

Pumpkin Dip Combos

• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace lentils with quinoa or textured vegetable protein for a different protein source while maintaining the hearty texture.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free and serve with gluten-free tortilla chips or over cauliflower rice for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Reduce or eliminate jalapeño for a milder version, or add extra chili flakes and hot sauce for heat lovers who want an intense kick.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute beans with extra vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms, and serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy as a standalone stew for a carbohydrate-conscious meal.

FAQs

• Are lentils necessary for this chili recipe?

Lentils provide plant-based protein and make the dish hearty and nutritious, replacing traditional ground meat while adding texture and fiber.

• Can I make this chili spicier?

Absolutely! You can increase heat by adding more jalapeños, using a spicier salsa, or incorporating red pepper flakes or hot sauce according to your preference.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this chili stores well in the refrigerator for 4-5 days and actually develops richer flavors as it sits, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.

• Can I freeze this chili con carne?

Definitely! This chili freezes excellently for up to 3 months. Simply cool completely, store in airtight containers, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Easy Slow Cooker Chilli Con Carne Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty chilli con carne simmers with robust flavors, blending tender beef, smoky spices, and rich tomato sauce in a comforting one-pot wonder. Packed with protein and zest, this classic Mexican-inspired dish delivers warmth and satisfaction you’ll crave on chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein and Beans:

• 1 cup dry green or brown lentils
• 2 cans (15 ounces/425 grams each) black beans, drained and rinsed

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 medium onion (white or yellow)
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 jalapeno pepper
• 3–4 cloves garlic
• 2 cups frozen corn
• 28 ounces (794 grams) canned crushed tomatoes

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup salsa
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1.5 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro (plus extra for topping)

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly cleanse lentils and transfer them into the slow cooker basin, ensuring even distribution.
2. Layer chopped onions, vibrant green and red bell peppers, fiery jalapeños, and minced garlic into the cooking vessel.
3. Incorporate black beans, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sweet corn kernels, and zesty salsa, gently mixing to combine all ingredients.
4. Generously season the mixture with aromatic chili powder, earthy cumin, fragrant oregano, smoky paprika, and a balanced blend of salt and pepper.
5. Secure the slow cooker lid and allow the flavors to meld and develop by cooking on low temperature for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until lentils reach a perfectly tender consistency.
6. Just before serving, fold in freshly chopped cilantro to enhance the dish’s vibrant flavor profile.
7. Present the chili piping hot, accompanied by an array of optional garnishes such as tangy pico de gallo, crisp tortilla chips, melted cheese, or creamy avocado slices.

Notes

• Swap meat for plant-based protein by using lentils, creating a hearty vegetarian version that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.
• Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing jalapeño and chili powder to suit different heat preferences and dietary needs.
• Enhance texture by briefly sautéing onions and garlic before adding to slow cooker for deeper, more caramelized flavor profile.
• Boost nutritional value by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach during the last hour of cooking for added vitamins and minerals.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 2 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 54 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg