Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili

Name: Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups dried black beans, soaked overnight; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Ideas

I absolutely love coming home to the rich aroma of this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili after a long day. It's not just a comforting meal; it's packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. Using simple ingredients like black beans, fresh vegetables, and a touch of spices, I can whip up this dish without breaking a sweat. The beauty of this recipe is that it allows me to customize it to my taste by adding more or less spice, making it suitable for the whole family. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner, this chili becomes an instant favorite.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:13:36.058Z

When I first tried making this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili, I was amazed at how easy it was to let the slow cooker do all the work. I tossed in the beans, veggies, and spices in the morning before heading out, and the result was a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort. Not only did it allow me to enjoy my favorite flavors, but it was also a great way to add more plant-based goodness to my diet.

One specific detail I swear by is soaking the black beans overnight. This not only helps with digestion but also results in a creamier texture in the final dish. I paired this chili with avocado slices and cilantro, taking it to another level. The endless variations you can create ensure that I’ll never get tired of this recipe!

        Why You Will Love This Chili
        Rich, hearty texture that satisfies your hunger
Packed with plant-based protein from black beans
Ideal for meal prep, saving time during busy weeks

      

The Importance of Soaking Black Beans

Soaking the black beans overnight is a crucial step for achieving the perfect texture in your chili. This process helps to soften the beans, allowing them to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the dish. If you skip this step, you may end up with beans that are undercooked, leading to a less enjoyable eating experience. Be sure to rinse and drain the beans thoroughly before adding them to the crockpot to remove any residual starch.

If you're short on time, you can use canned black beans for a quicker version of this chili. However, be sure to rinse them well to reduce the sodium content. Just remember that using dried beans will generally yield a richer flavor and a more satisfying texture.

Boosting Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh vegetables not only enhances the flavors in this chili but also contributes vital nutrients. The combination of onions, garlic, bell peppers, carrots, and celery creates a well-rounded base that complements the earthiness of the black beans. When sautéing the vegetables prior to adding them to the crockpot, you can develop deeper flavors. While this step is optional, I recommend it for a robust taste.

If you're looking to amp up the spice level, consider adding jalapeños or other chili peppers to your vegetable mix. This addition will not only increase the heat but also add a vibrant color to the dish, making it visually appealing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, consider portioning the chili into freezer-safe bags or containers. The chili can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to cool it completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming.

When it's time to reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the chili thickens after freezing, you can easily add a little vegetable broth or water during reheating to achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredients

For the Chili

2 cups dried black beans, soaked overnight
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing and draining the soaked black beans. Chop all your vegetables and set them aside.

Combine in the Crockpot

In your crockpot, add the black beans, onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, and spices.

Cook on Low

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.

Adjust Seasoning

Once cooked, taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. You can also add a splash of lime juice for brightness.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with toppings like avocado or cilantro if you like.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. This will enhance the richness of the chili.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your chili experience, consider serving it with a variety of toppings. Avocado adds creaminess, while fresh cilantro brings a pop of freshness to each bite. You can also top it with shredded cheese, greek yogurt, or a drizzle of sour cream for a bit of richness. These garnishes not only enhance flavor but also make your dish more visually appealing.

For an even heartier meal, serve the chili alongside cornbread, tortilla chips, or over a bed of rice. This chili's versatility allows it to fit many dining occasions, whether it's a casual weekday dinner or a festive gathering with friends.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this chili by incorporating other vegetables or legumes. Zucchini, corn, or even sweet potatoes can be added for extra nutrition and texture. If you prefer a meatier version, ground turkey or beef can be browned and mixed into the dish before cooking, just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.

For those who enjoy smoky flavors, consider adding a dash of chipotle in adobo sauce or smoked sausage. These additions can transform your chili into a completely new dish, providing different flavor profiles while still keeping it healthy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can! If using canned beans, reduce the cooking time to about 2 hours on low or 1 hour on high.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Is this chili vegan?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are plant-based.

→ Can I spice it up?

For more heat, add diced jalapeño or cayenne pepper to your chili. Adjust according to your spice preference.