Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and soaked overnight; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Avocado slices for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Natural Recipes

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili because it’s not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to develop beautifully, and the result is a vibrant, flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. We often serve it with avocado and cilantro on top, which really brings out the freshness of the ingredients. Plus, it's a fantastic option for meal prep, making it a staple in our household.

Created by

Aileen Prescott

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:13:37.179Z

When I first experimented with this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, I was amazed at how effortless it was to create something so nourishing. The blend of spices combined with the slow-cooking technique really enhances the depth of flavor, making each bowl a comforting experience. I recommend adding chopped bell peppers and a splash of lime juice before serving to elevate the taste even more.

I've adjusted this recipe over the years, fine-tuning the spice levels to suit my family's preferences. Using dried black beans thoroughly soaked overnight yields the best texture, but if you're short on time, canned beans work just as well. The key is to let it simmer long enough for all the ingredients to meld together perfectly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber, keeping you full longer.
Versatile - perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings.
Ideal for busy days with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

      

The Power of Black Beans

Black beans are not just the star ingredient in this chili; they also contribute a wealth of nutrients. Packed with protein and fiber, they help you feel fuller for longer, making this dish ideal for hunger satisfaction. When cooked thoroughly in the crockpot, black beans achieve a creamy texture that blends beautifully with the other ingredients, allowing their earthy flavor to shine through.

Soaking your black beans overnight not only reduces cooking time but also enhances their digestibility. If you're short on time, you might consider using canned black beans, but keep in mind that they may not provide the same depth of flavor as soaked dried beans. If opting for canned, reduce the cooking time by about half, as they only require heating through.

Customizing Your Chili

One of the beauties of this black bean chili lies in its versatility. You can effortlessly tailor the flavors to your liking with various toppings or mix-ins. For a kick of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also introduce different beans, such as kidney or pinto, for texture variety. Incorporating corn can add a delightful sweetness that balances the spiciness of the chili powder.

Another fantastic customization is incorporating seasonal vegetables. Adding zucchini or bell peppers not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the dish's color palette. Feel free to experiment with spices; adding smoked paprika can impart a subtle smokiness, or try enhancing the spice level with additional chili powder or a dash of chipotle chili for a deeper, richer flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients to create your savory chili:

Ingredients

1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and soaked overnight
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Avocado slices for topping (optional)

Make sure to check the seasoning before serving, and enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your chili:

Prepare the Base

In your crockpot, combine the soaked black beans, onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrots.

Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing well.

Set it to Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the beans are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings. Top with cilantro and avocado slices!

Serve your chili warm and enjoy an easy, nutritious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or even a splash of hot sauce to the mix. Adjust spice levels to suit your taste, especially if serving to children or guests with milder preferences.

Storage and Meal Prep

This chili makes for an excellent make-ahead meal. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It freezes beautifully for up to three months and can be reheated on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

When reheating, a little extra broth or water might be needed to regain the desired consistency, as the chili tends to thicken upon cooling. Stirring while reheating will help maintain an even temperature throughout. Be sure to taste and adjust seasonings after reheating since flavors can intensify during storage.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this chili is a chance to be creative. Garnish with fresh cilantro and creamy avocado; both add layers of flavor and texture that elevate the dish. If you like a bit of crunch, crushed tortilla chips or pumpkin seeds make for fantastic toppings. For a heartier meal, consider serving this chili alongside cornbread or over a bed of brown rice or quinoa, enhancing the dish's nutritional value.

Consider pairing this hearty chili with a vibrant garnish of Greek yogurt or sour cream. This not only adds a creamy element but also provides a nice contrast to the overall spiciness. For a fun twist, you might even serve it in a baked tortilla bowl or use it as a filling for tacos, allowing you to enjoy the chili in multiple ways throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can substitute canned black beans. Just add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this chili?

This chili is great on its own, but you can also serve it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a heartier meal.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can be added to the crockpot with the other ingredients for a meatier version.