Three-Bean Comfort Chuck Roast Chili

This hearty chili features a slow-cooked chuck roast simmering in a medley of tomatoes, peppers, and three varieties of beans. With just a little prep time, you’ll return home to a warm, comforting bowl that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a meal that truly satisfies.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)

Instructions

Start by browning the chuck roast to deepen its savory flavor. Warm the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat, then add the chuck roast cubes in a single layer, searing until they turn nicely golden on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.

In the same pan, sauté the onion until it turns translucent, then toss in the minced garlic and green bell pepper for another minute. Let the veggies pick up any browned bits left from the beef—these add extra flavor. Once the vegetables are softened and aromatic, add them to the slow cooker along with the kidney, black, and pinto beans. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8 hours (or high for 4–5 hours). Over the course of the day, the chuck roast becomes tender while soaking up the rich blend of spices and tomatoes. About 30 minutes before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you love spice, stir in a pinch of cayenne or top with fresh jalapeños for a colorful kick.

Tuck into a steaming bowl of this chili with your favorite toppings—shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce—and enjoy a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting.

Why make this recipe? It’s ideal for anyone who craves a hearty meal on a busy schedule. Using a slow cooker ensures minimal hands-on time while delivering big flavor. For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey in place of chuck roast.

If you prefer fewer beans, simply omit one or two varieties, or swap them for chickpeas. This chili is a blend of robust beef, colorful veggies, and protein-packed beans—an inviting meal that warms you inside and out.