Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love coming home to the warm, comforting aroma of this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili. It’s my go-to recipe for busy weekdays or lazy weekends when I want something hearty yet nutritious. The combination of black beans, tomatoes, and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor that always satisfies. Plus, making it in the crockpot means I can set it and forget it until it’s time to eat. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple dinner, this chili never disappoints.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:19:10.420Z

While experimenting with various chili recipes, I found that using the crockpot truly enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together over time. This Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili strikes the perfect balance between rich and wholesome, which is often hard to achieve. The longer cooking time allows the spices to fully bloom, leaving you with a bowl that's bursting with flavor.

One tip I discovered is to add a dash of lime juice right before serving. This simple addition elevates the dish and brightens the flavors. Trust me, this chili is a hit at every gathering!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein from black beans and veggies
Easy to make with minimal prep and clean-up
Healthy comfort food that warms you from the inside out

      

Ingredient Insights

The black beans in this chili are not just a source of protein; they also contribute a creamy texture that balances perfectly with the diced tomatoes. The acidity from the tomatoes helps to enhance the overall flavor profile, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and spice. If you're looking for a quicker method, canned beans reduce prep time significantly. However, if you prefer cooking your beans from scratch, remember to soak them overnight and allow for adequate cooking time to achieve the desired tenderness.

The seasoning in this chili is pivotal for depth of flavor. The chili powder adds a warming heat that can be adjusted according to your taste. Cumin pairs well with the beans and tomatoes, adding an earthy note. If you want to experiment, think about adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a distinct twist. Consider fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for garnishing; they can brighten up the dish and add a layer of freshness when serving.

Cooking Technique Tips

When combining everything in the crockpot, make sure to stir thoroughly. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed, which is crucial for achieving a consistent flavor throughout the chili. For added depth, you might sauté the onions and bell peppers in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This technique caramelizes the sugars and enhances the overall sweetness and complexity of the dish.

Adjusting cook times based on your crockpot model is vital. If using a newer model, consider checking your chili around the lower end of the time range, as some can cook faster. Look for the vegetables to be fork-tender and the chili to be bubbling to ensure proper cooking. If you find it too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth; if too thin, you can uncover it for the last half hour to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

You can customize the ingredients to fit your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all your veggies. Dice the bell pepper and onion, and mince the garlic.

Combine in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, add the black beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Cook the Chili

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours, until the vegetables are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Enjoy this chili with some cornbread or over rice!

Pro Tips

For a spicier chili, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also top it with avocado or lime for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This chili is highly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can enjoy it plain or with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess. Cornbread, avocado slices, or tortilla chips make excellent accompaniments, adding texture and additional flavors. If you're hosting, serve it in a large bowl with toppings on the side, allowing guests to customize their bowls.

For more protein, consider adding shredded chicken or turkey while cooking; this adaptation would pair well with the spices already present. If you're vegetarian or vegan, feel free to stick with the original recipe, or incorporate quinoa for additional heartiness without compromising on nutrition.

Meal Prep and Storage

This Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Just make sure to let the chili cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.

When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creamy consistency if it thickened in the fridge. Stir frequently over medium heat on the stovetop until heated through. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed after reheating; sometimes, the flavors may need rebalancing after storage.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried black beans instead of canned?

Yes, just soak and cook them first according to package instructions before adding them to the crockpot.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is vegan and packed with plant-based protein!

→ Can I add meat to this chili?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can be added during the initial cooking stage for a heartier dish.