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Best Easy Three-Bean Crockpot Chili Recipe

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This hearty, set-and-forget chili is packed with three types of beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a secret splash of balsamic vinegar for incredible depth of flavor. It’s perfect for game day, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner, and it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 2 cups)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (28 oz) fire-roasted crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics (optional but recommended): Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add both bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
  3. Add the drained and rinsed black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans to the slow cooker.
  4. Add the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with juices), and tomato paste. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to distribute spices evenly.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Stir once or twice if possible.
  7. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the balsamic vinegar.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or cayenne if needed. If chili is too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water; if too thin, cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley. Offer toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, and tortilla chips.

Notes

For best flavor, sauté the aromatics before adding to the slow cooker. Do not skip the balsamic vinegar—it brightens the dish. Chili tastes even better the next day. For a meat version, brown 1 pound ground beef or turkey with the onions and peppers. For Instant Pot: use sauté function, then pressure cook on HIGH for 15 minutes with natural release.

Nutrition

Keywords: three-bean chili, crockpot chili, slow cooker chili, vegan chili, gluten-free chili, easy chili recipe, game day chili

Find it online: https://dinadishes.com/best-easy-three-bean-crockpot-chili-recipe/