Smoky Chipotle 5-Bean Chili

If you’re looking to warm up with something extra hearty, this slow cooker chili delivers bold flavors without any fuss. The blend of five different beans, smoky chipotle peppers, and a lively spice mix culminate in a comforting bowl of goodness perfect for cozy nights.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sour cream, sliced jalapeños

Instructions

Start by warming the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until it turns translucent, about 5 minutes; then add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring often so it doesn’t burn. Transfer everything to your slow cooker.

Next, add all five types of beans, the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chopped chipotle peppers along with their adobo sauce. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper so the flavors mingle well.

Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours (or high for 4 hours). The spices will have a chance to meld with the beans, and the chipotle peppers will give this chili its signature, smoky heat. Once it’s done, give it a taste and adjust seasonings as you like.

Ladle the chili into bowls while it’s piping hot, and finish with your favorite toppings, like a sprinkle of cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a handful of fresh cilantro.

This Smoky Chipotle 5-Bean Chili is perfect for anyone craving a filling meal without a lot of prep work. It’s naturally high in fiber and protein, and you can easily adjust the spice level by using fewer chipotle peppers or swapping in milder chilies.

Consider mixing up the beans you have on hand—navy or garbanzo beans work beautifully, too. Best of all, the slow cooker does most of the work, leaving you free to savor the aroma and look forward to a comforting meal at the end of the day.