Hearty Slow Cooker Three-Bean Chili
This hearty slow cooker three-bean chili is a perfect choice for an easy, flavorful meal. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making it an ideal slow cooker dinner recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: You can easily substitute ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
- Canned Beans: Kidney, black, and pinto beans are classic, but feel free to use any combination you enjoy.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes work well too; just expect a slightly chunkier texture.
- Chili Powder & Cumin: Essential for authentic chili flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (4 ounce) can mild green chiles, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 4-6 hours (on high) or 8-10 hours (on low)
- Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 10 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies based on ingredients)
- Tools needed: Large slow cooker, large skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef, onion, and bell pepper mixture to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, mild green chiles, and beef broth. Stir everything together gently.
3. Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to your taste. Give it another good stir to ensure all the spices are distributed.
4. Cook to Perfection
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chili is thick and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally if you’re able.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, give the chili a final stir. Ladle it into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings. This is a satisfying slow cooker dinner recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Variation Ideas
- Add a can of corn (drained) in the last hour of cooking for extra sweetness.
- Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder at the beginning for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding extra vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes exceptionally well; portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you make this chili spicier?
A: Yes, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Q: What are some good toppings for this chili?
A: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, and crushed tortilla chips are popular choices.
Q: Do you have to brown the ground beef first?
A: Browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables first adds depth of flavor, but you can technically add raw ground beef directly to the slow cooker if you’re short on time.
Q: Can you use dried beans instead of canned?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them separately according to package directions before adding them to the slow cooker.
Q: Is this a good recipe for meal prepping?
A: Absolutely! This hearty slow cooker three-bean chili makes excellent leftovers and is perfect for meal prepping.
Q: What if you don’t have all three types of beans?
A: You can use any combination of kidney, black, or pinto beans you have on hand. Just ensure you have the total equivalent amount.
