3 Bean Chili Beans(In Crock-Pot)

Cook: 240 min Cuisine: American

A hearty, flavorful 3 Bean Chili with beef and beans, perfect for cozy gatherings and chili lovers seeking a savory, satisfying meal with mild spice notes.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can lima or butter beans
  • 1 can pinto beans, drained
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 2 packages Equal or 1 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1/2 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 can chopped tomatoes
  • 2 cans tomato sauce

Instructions

  1. Cook beef, onion, and garlic in a fry pan; drain.
  2. Transfer the cooked mixture into a crock-pot and add remaining ingredients.
  3. Cook on high for 12 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef and onions longer before adding them to the crock-pot. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with textured vegetable protein or additional beans. Adjust the chili powder to your heat preference, and feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra texture.

Serving Suggestions

This 3 Bean Chili is perfect for a cozy meal. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a filling dish. Garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with 'Let Freedom Ring' Meat Loaf for a hearty meal or can be enjoyed with a simple side salad for a lighter option.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the chili for up to three months; just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of 3 Bean Chili Beans(In Crock-Pot) contains roughly 1572 calories, with 67g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (180% of the Daily Value), protein (134% of the Daily Value), and iron (120% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

1572 kcal 79% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 66.9g 100% DV
Total Fat 76.6g 98% DV
Carbs 162.6g 59% DV
Fiber 50.4g 100% DV
Sugar 9.5g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 3050.1mg 65% DV
Cholesterol 77mg 26% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 291.4mcg 32% DV
Vitamin C 21.6mg 24% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 418mg 32% DV
Iron 21.6mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of beans in this chili?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any of the beans in the recipe with your favorites. Black beans, navy beans, or chickpeas can all work well and add unique flavors and textures to your chili.

How can I make this chili spicier?

To add more heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicier chili powder or add hot sauce to taste. Just remember to adjust gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.

Is it possible to cook this chili on the stove instead?

Yes, you can make this chili on the stove! After browning the beef and onions, add all the ingredients to a large pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through and flavors meld.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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