Description
Hearty slow cooker taco chili delivers Mexican-inspired comfort with robust flavors and simple preparation. Packed with ground beef, beans, and zesty spices, this one-pot meal promises warmth and satisfaction for hungry families seeking a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
Vegetables and Beans:
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 cups (280 grams) corn (canned or frozen)
- 30 ounces (850 grams) canned diced tomatoes
- 15 ounces (425 grams) canned black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 15 ounces (425 grams) canned pinto beans (drained and rinsed)
- 8 ounces (227 grams) canned chopped green chiles
Seasoning:
- 1 packet (or 2 tablespoons) taco seasoning
Instructions
- Transform ground beef into a rich, caramelized base by sizzling and crumbling it in a skillet over medium heat until completely browned, developing deep flavor and appetizing texture.
- Transfer the perfectly cooked beef into the slow cooker, incorporating chopped onions, diced tomatoes, assorted beans, roasted green chiles, sweet corn kernels, and robust taco seasoning, mixing thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Configure the slow cooker to low temperature, allowing the chili to simmer gently for 7-8 hours, which enables ingredients to meld and develop complex, harmonious flavors. Alternatively, use high setting for 3-4 hours if time is limited.
- Periodically stir the chili during the final cooking phase to prevent ingredient separation and ensure consistent heat distribution, being careful not to disrupt bean integrity.
- Conduct a final flavor assessment approximately 25-30 minutes before serving, carefully adjusting seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the overall taste profile and personalize the dish.
- Serve the hearty, aromatic chili piping hot, garnishing with optional toppings like shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or dollop of sour cream to enhance presentation and complementary flavors.
Notes
- Elevate flavor by thoroughly browning ground beef, ensuring caramelization for deeper taste and richer texture.
- Reduce fat content by using lean ground beef or substituting with ground turkey for a healthier alternative.
- Customize spice levels by adjusting taco seasoning or adding fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
- Make the recipe vegetarian-friendly by replacing beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans and adding more vegetables like bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (on low) or 4 hours (on high)
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg