Air Fryer Chilli Con Carne – Super Healthy
Can You Make Chilli In An Air Fryer?
You can. It’s healthy and easy, and no oil is used. Your evening meal can be on the table in 30 minutes.
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How To Make Chilli Con Carne In The Air Fryer
This step-by-step guide will help you create a tasty dish from scratch.
Ingredients
- 454g minced / ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: grated cheese, sour cream, chopped coriander
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C/400°F for 5 minutes.
- In the bottom of the air fryer basket (remove the crisper plate) or a suitable air fryer tin, brown the minced / ground beef. Stir regularly. Carefully remove any excess fat by dabbing a clean piece of kitchen roll into the oil to absorb it.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the minced beef. Air fry for a further 5 minutes, until the vegetables have softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chilli powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry at 200C/400F for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through and slightly bubbly.
- Once cooked, remove the tin or basket from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve with rice and your favourite toppings, such as grated cheese, sour cream, and chopped coriander.
What Temperature Do You Cook Chilli In The Air Fryer?
The recommended temperature is 200°C/400°F. Remember to preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile and tasty dish goes well with a variety of accompaniments.
Here are some serving suggestions:
- Rice: Serve a generous portion over a bed of fluffy white rice. The combination of the tender beef, sauce, and the textures of the rice create a satisfying meal.
- Tortillas or Taco Shells: For a Tex-Mex-inspired feast, set up a make-your-own taco station. Warm up soft tortillas or crunchy taco shells and fill them with the Chilli Con Carne, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Loaded Nachos: Transform your Air Fryer Chilli Con Carne into a popular appetiser by layering tortilla chips on a baking sheet, topping them generously with the Chilli Con Carne, grated cheese, diced onions, jalapeños, and a drizzle of nacho cheese sauce. Pop the tray into the air fryer until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The result? Irresistible loaded nachos are perfect for sharing.
- Baked Potatoes: Top a fluffy baked potato with the Chilli Con Carne. Finish it off with a sprinkle of grated cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a handful of chopped chives.
- Mexican Rice and Guacamole: Serve the Chilli alongside a side of Mexican rice and guacamole.
- Chilli Dogs: Take your classic hot dog to new heights by adding Chilli to the bun, and top it off with diced onions, mustard, and a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Air Fryer Tips For Success
Consider the following tips:
- Experiment with different types of minced / ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, to suit your dietary preferences.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chilli powder according to your taste.
- For a smoky flavour, try adding a dash of chipotle powder or use smoked paprika.
- Allow the chilli to rest for a while after cooking to allow the flavours to fully develop.
Can You Cook Minced Beef In The Air Fryer?
A lot of air fryer recipes still suggest using your hob or stove to cook minced beef.
Although this is correct, why use another pan when the whole process can be done in the air fryer?
By all means, if you’re happier doing it on the hob that’s fine but there is no need!
Simply preheat your air fryer to 200C/400F for 5 minutes.
Place your raw minced beef in the bottom of the air fryer basket removing the crisper plate if you have one.
Air fry at 200C/400F until the minced beef has browned. You now have the base for any beef mince recipe.
The length of time will depend on your specific make and model of air fryer so check regularly.
More Air Fryer Recipes
Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese Guide For All Air Fryers
Air Fryer Meatloaf From Scratch With Delicious Glazes
Easy Air Fryer Meatballs – Fresh And Frozen
FAQs About Air Fryer Chilli Con Carne
Can I Use Minced / Ground Turkey Instead Of Beef?
Minced / ground turkey, chicken and pork are leaner alternatives that work well in this recipe.
Is It Necessary To Preheat The Air Fryer?
Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking, so it’s recommended for the best results.
Adding More Vegetables To The Chilli?
Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like corn, courgettes, or mushrooms to add more variety and nutrition.
Making A Vegetarian Version Of Chilli?
Simply omit the ground beef and replace it with your favourite plant-based food such as tofu or Quorn.
Using Frozen Meat For Chilli?
While it’s possible to use frozen meat in an air fryer, I would recommend thawing the meat before cooking. Thawing ensures even cooking and allows the flavours to develop properly.
Storing And Freezing Air Fryer Chilli Con Carne
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chilli?
Air Fryer Chilli Con Carne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the air fryer at 200C/ 400F until hot or on the hob.
Freezing Leftover Air Fryer Chilli Con Carne
Yes, you can! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat at 200C/400F until hot.
These 1L double-seal reusable zip lock bags are designed for maximum convenience and durability, making them the perfect solution for all your food storage needs. Each bag holds up to 1 litre, ideal for storing everything from leftovers and meal prep ingredients to snacks and bulk items. Simply rinse and reuse!
This oil spray bottle offers the convenience of both spraying and pouring oil, making it perfect for air frying. Made from food-grade, BPA-free PP material and thick, unbreakable lead-free glass, this cooking oil bottle features a transparent design that allows users to easily monitor the oil level. With a capacity of 500ml, the dispenser reduces the frequency of refills. Its wide mouth opening makes it easy to add oil without spills or splatters. The cooking spray bottle helps control the amount of oil used while pouring or spraying. The olive oil spray bottle is designed to be leak-proof. Its front-facing nozzle and rear comfortable handle enable users to achieve a fine, uniform mist while pouring or spraying oil, ensuring a clean and mess-free experience.
Air Fryer Chilli (Chili) Con Carne
Ingredients
- 454g minced / ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: grated cheese, sour cream, chopped coriander
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C/400°F.
- In the bottom of the air fryer basket (remove the crisper plate) or a suitable air fryer tin, brown the minced / ground beef. Stir regularly. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the minced beef. Air fry for a further 5 minutes, until the vegetables have softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chilli powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry at 200C/400F for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Chilli Con Carne is heated through and slightly bubbly.
- Once cooked, remove the tin or basket from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the Air Fryer Chilli Con Carne with rice and your favourite toppings, such as grated cheese, sour cream, and chopped coriander.
Notes
The nutritional value is approximate