Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game with a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare? Introducing the Slow Cooker Taco Chili—a mouthwatering blend of savory ground beef, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! Perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without the fuss, this recipe promises to fill your home with irresistible aromas while you go about your day. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to work its magic for a hearty, satisfying chili that serves up to 8. Dive into this flavorful fiesta and discover why this taco chili is destined to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat completely.
- Transfer the browned ground beef to the slow cooker, ensuring an even layer at the bottom of the pot.
- Add drained black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn kernels, and diced bell peppers to the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of taco seasoning over the ingredients, ensuring even distribution.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, gently stirring all ingredients to combine thoroughly.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting for 8 hours, allowing flavors to meld and develop.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
- After 8 hours, check seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños.
Tips
- Brown the Beef Thoroughly: Take your time to brown the ground beef properly before adding it to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavor and gives your chili a richer taste.
- Customize Your Beans: Feel free to mix and match different types of beans based on your preference. Black beans and kidney beans are great, but pinto beans or chickpeas can also add a unique twist!
- Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. Adjust the taco seasoning to your spice preference for an extra kick.
- Layer Ingredients: When adding ingredients to the slow cooker, layer them carefully. Start with the meat on the bottom, followed by the beans and vegetables, to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Don’t Skip the Stirring: Stirring occasionally during cooking can help prevent sticking and ensure that all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Serve your chili with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro to add a burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
- Make It Ahead: This chili can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen and improve overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg
