Hearty Fiesta-Style Slow Cooker 3 Bean Chili

When the weather turns brisk and you crave something warm and satisfying, there’s nothing like a comforting bowl of chili. This Hearty Fiesta-Style Slow Cooker 3 Bean Chili takes minimal effort and offers maximum flavor. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker in the morning, and come dinnertime, you’ll have a rich, savory meal that just begs for a garnish of fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper, or to taste

Instructions

Begin by sautéing the onion and garlic in olive oil over medium heat until they soften and develop a hint of golden color—this step guarantees a deeper, caramelized taste. Next, transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to your slow cooker.

Add the diced tomatoes, all three types of beans, and the broth to the slow cooker. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Give everything another gentle stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Set your slow cooker to low and let the chili gently bubble away for 6 to 8 hours. By the time it’s finished, your kitchen will be filled with a mouthwatering, fragrant aroma. Before serving, season with salt and pepper. If a thicker consistency is preferred, simply blend a cup of chili from the slow cooker, then stir it back into the pot.

This chili is perfect topped with shredded cheese, avocado slices, or tortilla strips. Grab a warm piece of cornbread for dipping or spoon it over a bed of fluffy rice.

Not only is this Slow Cooker 3 Bean Chili a breeze to prepare, it’s also a nutritious, protein-packed meal that can be adapted to suit different tastes—go mild on the spices or jazz it up with extra jalapeños. It’s great for busy parents, college students, and anyone who wants a low-maintenance dish with tons of flavor. Feel free to try swapping different beans, adding roasted veggies for extra color, or stirring in chopped spinach and kale near the end for a boost of greens. You’ll love how simple yet comforting this chili can be on a cool, cozy evening.