When it comes to comfort food that’s both hearty and easy to make, nothing quite beats a warm bowl of Chili Con Carne. Imagine coming home to the delicious aroma of slow-cooked chili wafting through your house, ready to warm you up from the inside out. This Easy Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne recipe is perfect for those who love robust flavors but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just craving something cozy, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Keep reading to discover how to create this delicious dish step-by-step and get tips on how to customize it to your liking!

What is Chili Con Carne?

Chili Con Carne, often referred to simply as chili, is a spicy stew that typically includes chili peppers, meat (usually beef), tomatoes, and beans. Originating from the American Southwest, particularly Texas, Chili Con Carne is a staple in many households and comes with a variety of regional twists. The name literally translates to "chili with meat," which is the classic way to prepare it. However, our version takes a slightly healthier approach by incorporating lentils and black beans, making it just as filling and flavorful, but with a nutritious twist.

Ingredients List for Chili Con Carne

1 cup dry green or brown lentils: These provide a hearty, meaty texture that complements the chili perfectly while adding a boost of fiber and protein.
1 medium onion (white or yellow): Onions add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the chili.
1 green bell pepper: Bell peppers give a crunchy texture and a mild, sweet flavor.
1 red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and enhances the sweetness of the dish.
1 jalapeño pepper: Offers a spicy kick. You can adjust the amount depending on your heat preference.
3-4 cloves garlic: Garlic brings a pungent, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste.
2 cans black beans (15 oz each) drained and rinsed: Black beans are rich in protein and fiber, making the chili heartier.
28 oz canned crushed tomatoes: The base of the chili, providing acidity and sweetness.
3 cups vegetable broth: Helps to cook the lentils and meld all the flavors together.
2 cups frozen corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and a bit of crunch.
1 cup salsa (choose your favorite!): Adds an extra layer of flavor, choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
2 tablespoon chili powder: This is the primary spice, giving the chili its signature heat and flavor.
1.5 tablespoon ground cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in chili.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano brings a touch of herbaceousness to balance the spices.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth that complements the cumin and chili powder.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
2 tablespoon fresh chopped cilantro plus extra for topping: Cilantro adds freshness and a burst of color.

Ingredients List for Easy Homemade Pico de Gallo

2 cups finely diced Roma tomatoes (plum tomatoes): Roma tomatoes are firm and less watery, making them perfect for pico.
1 cup finely diced white onion: Adds sharpness and crunch to the pico.
1 jalapeño (seeds/stem removed): Adds a kick of heat; remove seeds for a milder pico.
¼-⅓ cup fresh chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor that’s key in pico de gallo.
½ lime, juiced: Lime juice brightens and balances the flavors.
½-¾ teaspoon salt or season to taste: Enhances all the flavors and brings out the sweetness of the tomatoes.

More Tasty Topping Options

Crushed tortilla chips: Adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft chili.
Grated cheese (skip for vegan): Adds creaminess and a rich, savory flavor.
Sour cream (vegan or regular): Provides a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy chili.
Sliced avocado: Adds creaminess and a mild, buttery flavor.
Sliced or diced jalapeño peppers: For those who love extra heat, adding fresh jalapeño slices is a great option.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Chili Con Carne is its versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences. For example, if you’re not a fan of lentils, you can substitute them with ground beef or turkey for a more traditional take. For a vegetarian or vegan version, stick with the lentils and black beans, or add other beans like kidney or pinto beans. If you prefer a spicier chili, consider adding more jalapeños, using a hotter salsa, or mixing in a bit of cayenne pepper. On the other hand, if you’re sensitive to heat, you can reduce or omit the jalapeños and opt for a mild salsa instead. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or carrots to boost the nutritional value of the dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Prep the Lentils: Begin by picking over the lentils to remove any debris or broken pieces. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh colander or sieve. This step ensures that your lentils are clean and ready to absorb all the flavors of the chili.
Prepare the Vegetables: Next, prepare your vegetables. Peel and finely dice the onion. Remove the seeds and stems from the bell peppers and jalapeño, then dice them into small, bite-sized pieces. Peel and mince the garlic cloves. It’s important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.
Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker: Now comes the fun part—assembling the chili! In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the chopped onion, bell peppers, jalapeño, garlic, black beans, corn, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, salsa, and all the spices, including chili powder, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Don’t forget to add the lentils. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Adjust the Heat: If you like your chili spicy, you can adjust the heat by adding more jalapeño, using a spicy salsa, or even sprinkling in some cayenne pepper. Taste as you go to make sure it’s to your liking.
Cook the Chili: Set your slow cooker to HIGH for 5 hours or LOW for 9-10 hours. The longer cooking time on low heat allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, but if you’re short on time, the high setting works just as well. You’ll know the chili is ready when the lentils are tender and the flavors have fully developed.
Prepare the Pico de Gallo: While the chili is cooking, make the pico de gallo. In a medium bowl, combine the finely diced Roma tomatoes, white onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Squeeze the juice of half a lime over the mixture, and season with salt. Mix well and set aside.
Serve and Garnish: Once the chili is cooked, give it a final taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve it hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like crushed tortilla chips, grated cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, and a spoonful of fresh pico de gallo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Rinsing the Lentils: Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
Overcooking the Chili: Even though slow cookers are forgiving, overcooking can result in mushy lentils and beans. Stick to the recommended cooking times.
Underseasoning: Chili is all about layers of flavor, so make sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving Chili Con Carne, presentation is key to making the dish look as appetizing as it tastes. Serve the chili in large bowls, allowing enough space for toppings. Arrange the toppings in small bowls on the side so everyone can customize their own bowl. For an added touch, garnish each bowl with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a lime wedge.

How to Serve Chili Con Carne

Chili Con Carne can be served in many different ways depending on your preference. Some popular options include serving it over a bed of rice, alongside a piece of cornbread, or with a stack of warm tortillas on the side. You can also try serving it in bread bowls for a fun and edible presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Chili Con Carne

For an impressive presentation, consider serving the chili in a rustic cast-iron pot directly on the table, allowing guests to serve themselves. Garnish the chili with a drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese for a pop of color. If you’re hosting a party, set up a chili bar with various toppings and let everyone build their own bowl.

Chili Con Carne Recipe Tips

Make Ahead: This chili is perfect for meal prepping. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd, simply double the ingredients and use a larger slow cooker.
Add Extra Veggies: To increase the nutritional content, feel free to add more vegetables like diced carrots, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned lentils instead of dry lentils?
A: Yes, you can use canned lentils, but reduce the cooking time as they are already cooked. Add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: To make the chili spicier, add more jalapeños, use a spicy salsa, or mix in some cayenne pepper. You can also add hot sauce to taste.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Chili Con Carne freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I use ground meat in this recipe?
A: Yes, ground beef, turkey, or chicken can be used. Brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker to enhance the flavor.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this Chili Con Carne recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your salsa and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Easy Slow Cooker Chili Con Carne recipe is a surefire way to bring warmth and flavor to your table. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a dish that’s both easy to make and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re a chili connoisseur or trying it for the first time, this recipe offers a delightful balance of spice, heartiness, and comfort. Try it out, experiment with the toppings, and enjoy the rich, robust flavors with your family and friends. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe for your next craving!