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: 1 cup dried black beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Fresh Food

I love making this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili on busy weekdays. It's so easy to throw together in the morning, and by dinner time, the aroma fills the house with a cozy, inviting smell. Packed with protein and fiber, it's a healthy meal that never compromises on flavor. The combination of spices and fresh vegetables creates a hearty dish that's perfect for chillier evenings or when I want a comforting meal without the guilt. I promise, once you try it, it’ll become a regular in your household.

Created by

Philippa Grantley

Last updated on 2026-01-13T07:11:37.263Z

When I first discovered how easy it is to make chili in a crockpot, I was hooked. It allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, and I can go about my day without worrying about dinner. I remember experimenting with different spices and veggies to get the perfect blend. My family loves how rich and satisfying it is, making it a staple in our meal rotation.

One tip I've found is to soak the black beans overnight if I'm using dried beans, as this helps them cook evenly and softens them beautifully. The consistency always comes out spot on, creamy yet chunky with the lovely undertones of cumin and chili powder. It's truly a comforting dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easy to prepare with minimal effort
Packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients
Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili plays an important role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. Black beans not only provide plant-based protein but also contribute to the dish's creamy texture when cooked. The combination of diced tomatoes and vegetable broth adds depth and enhances the chili’s natural sweetness, creating a delicious base for the spices to shine through.

Fresh vegetables are not just for flavor; they also introduce valuable nutrients. The carrots add a subtle sweetness and a slight crunch, while the onion and bell pepper bring aromatic layers which develop further as the chili simmers. If you’re looking to add even more nutrition, consider tossing in some chopped kale or zucchini during the last hour of cooking for a pop of color and added vitamins.

Tips for Perfect Cooking

To ensure that your black bean chili reaches its full flavor potential, take advantage of the slow cooking process. Cooking low and slow allows the spices to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and complex flavor profile. If you’re using dried beans, soaking them overnight helps them cook evenly and reduces the overall cooking time, making them tender without falling apart. If you forget to soak them, don’t worry! You can also quick-soak by boiling them for an hour before adding them to the crockpot.

Make sure to taste your chili just before serving. As the dish cooks, flavors will deepen, and you may find that it needs a pinch more salt or a dash of lime juice for brightness. If your chili tastes a bit flat, sometimes just adding a splash of vinegar can enhance the overall profile, making it brighter and more layered.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup dried black beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Make sure to rinse and drain the beans well if using canned for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the chili:

Prepare the Ingredients

If using dried black beans, soak them overnight in water. In the morning, drain and rinse them. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and carrots, and mince the garlic.

Combine in the Crockpot

Add all the prepared ingredients into the crockpot. Include the soaked beans (or canned beans), diced tomatoes, broth, and spices.

Cook

Set the crockpot to cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.

Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

This chili is great on its own or served with rice or cornbread.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice or some diced avocado on top when serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Healthy Crockpot Black Bean Chili is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can combine all the ingredients in the crockpot and refrigerate the liner overnight. In the morning, just plug it in and let it cook! This method will save you time during busy weekdays and ensures dinner is ready when you are.

If you have leftovers, they store well in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also freeze the chili for up to three months. Just let it cool before transferring to freezer-safe containers, and it will be an easy meal solution for future evenings.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

When it comes to serving this chili, the possibilities are endless! I love topping mine with diced avocado, a sprinkle of cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. A squeeze of fresh lime just before serving brightens everything up beautifully. For a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Feel free to experiment with the base of this recipe. You can add corn for sweetness or different beans like kidney or pinto for variety. If you prefer a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chipotle powder. The beauty of this dish is in its adaptability, catering to your taste and ingredient availability!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned black beans instead of dried?

Absolutely! Just make sure to rinse them before adding to the crockpot.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add different vegetables?

Yes, feel free to experiment with vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach for added nutrition.

→ Is this chili spicy?

The spice level is mild, but you can add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to increase the heat.