3 Bean Chili
A hearty, flavorful 3 Bean Chili with rich tomato and spice notes, perfect for large gatherings or cozy family dinners, served with cheese and sides like cornbread or Fritos.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown 2 hamburger patties and drain grease.
- Put all ingredients in a crock pot with juices from the cans.
- Stir ingredients and cook for 8 to 12 hours.
- Stir every 3 to 4 hours during cooking.
- Serve topped with grated Mexican-style cheese. Ideal with cornbread or served over Fritos.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing onions and garlic before browning the meat. You can substitute turkey or plant-based ground meat for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add fresh chopped jalapenos or a dash of cayenne pepper. This recipe is versatile; feel free to swap in your favorite beans or use canned beans for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili topped with grated Mexican-style cheese for a creamy finish. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or can be served over Fritos for a satisfying crunch. For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad or some sliced avocado. This dish is perfect for gatherings and game days, offering hearty comfort that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl until heated through. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3 Bean Chili contains roughly 147 calories, with 8g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make this chili vegetarian by omitting the ground chuck and using more beans or adding textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a meaty texture. There are plenty of delicious vegan recipes that can inspire your chili variations, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty bowl.
How can I thicken my chili?
If your chili is too thin, you can thicken it by stirring in a bit of cornmeal or masa harina. Alternatively, let it cook uncovered for the last hour to reduce the liquid. You can also blend a portion of the beans into a puree before adding them back into the pot for a creamier consistency.
What can I serve with my chili?
Chili is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with cornbread or over a bed of Fritos. A fresh side salad adds a nice crunch, or you can offer toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado for added flavor. For a fun twist, try using it as a filling for tacos!
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).