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Easy Crockpot Three-Bean Chili Recipe for Game Day

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This easy crockpot three-bean chili is a set-it-and-forget-it game day winner. With three types of beans, a secret touch of cocoa powder, and a rich, smoky flavor, it’s the perfect hearty and stress-free meal for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained (fire-roasted recommended)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup beef broth or water

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned all over (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
  5. Add undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, drained and rinsed black beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, cocoa powder, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours.
  7. About 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasonings. If chili is too thick, add more broth; if too thin, cook uncovered for 30 minutes.
  8. Ladle into bowls and serve with desired toppings.

Notes

Don’t skip browning the meat and sautéing the aromatics—it adds deep flavor. The cocoa powder is a secret ingredient that adds richness without making it taste like chocolate. For best results, cook on LOW for 6-8 hours. Chili tastes even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chili, three-bean chili, game day chili, easy chili, slow cooker chili, beef chili

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/easy-crockpot-three-bean-chili-recipe-for-game-day/