How to Make the Best Chili Recipe Ever Brown ground beef first. Drain well and add to slow cooker. Add the rest of ingredients. Cook on low for 5-6 hours. Serve over Elbow Macaron An alternative way to make this chili con carne recipe is to brown the ground beef and drain. Add to a large pot. Add all of the rest of the ingredients. Stir. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.