Welcome to a culinary adventure that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! Today, we’re diving into the comforting world of Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef & Black Bean Chili. This hearty dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something robust and flavorful. Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the intoxicating aroma of spices and savory beef, all simmering away, waiting for you after a long day. Not only is this chili remarkably easy to prepare, but it also delivers on taste, making it a go-to recipe for busy families and meal preppers alike. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. Let’s explore why this recipe should be your next favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef & Black Bean Chili stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice levels to your liking, whether you prefer a mild chili or one that packs a punch. The inclusion of chipotle chili powder gives it a unique smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish. Coupled with tender beef and hearty black beans, this chili is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
Another reason to love this recipe is its nutritional profile. Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the black beans, this chili is not only delicious but also filling. It’s a meal you can feel good about serving to your family, knowing they’re getting wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. You can also freeze leftovers for a quick meal later on.
If you’re looking for a dish that brings people together, look no further. Whether it’s game day, a cozy family dinner, or a potluck with friends, this chili is sure to impress. Serve it with toppings like fresh cilantro, sour cream, and shredded cheese, and watch as your guests dig in with smiles on their faces. The Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef & Black Bean Chili is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and warmth.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Have you ever found yourself staring at a pile of ingredients, unsure of what to cook? The Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef & Black Bean Chili takes that guesswork out of the equation. With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, it’s a stress-free option for any night of the week. Simply season your beef, sauté the aromatics, and let your slow cooker do the magic. The result? A rich, flavorful chili that simmers away while you focus on other things.
This recipe also shines in its adaptability. Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Feel free to add diced zucchini or carrots to the mix. Prefer chicken or turkey over beef? Substitute with your favorite protein, and the chili will still be a hit. The beauty of this dish is that it welcomes creativity, allowing you to make it your own.
Moreover, the Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef & Black Bean Chili is a crowd-pleaser. It’s a dish that can easily feed a family or a large group, making it ideal for gatherings. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve when everyone is hungry. Don’t forget to check out some of our other amazing slow cooker recipes, like our Slow Cooker Creamy Ham and Potato Chowder and Slow Cooker Creamy Buffalo Chicken Pasta, for more hearty meal options!
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh, optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
- Shredded cheese for serving (optional)
Necessary Utensils
- Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet for sautéing
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls
Having the right tools on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. A sturdy slow cooker is essential for ensuring even cooking, while a good knife and cutting board will make prepping the ingredients a breeze.
Detailed Recipe Steps
- Prepare the Beef: In a large bowl, season the beef cubes with chipotle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss the beef until it’s evenly coated with the spices. This step is crucial as it builds the foundational flavor of the dish.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the chili.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the seasoned beef, sautéed onion and garlic, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and bell pepper (if using). Stir well to combine all ingredients. This is where the magic begins!
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef becomes.
- Add Corn (Optional): If you’re using corn, stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This gives it just enough time to heat through without becoming mushy.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and shredded cheese if desired. Enjoy this warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Remember, the key to a successful chili lies in the quality of your ingredients and allowing time for the flavors to develop. Don’t rush the cooking process; good things come to those who wait!
FAQs
What type of beef is best for chili?
For chili, beef chuck is an excellent choice due to its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. It breaks down beautifully in the slow cooker, creating a tender texture.
Can I substitute the black beans?
Yes! You can substitute black beans with other beans like kidney beans or pinto beans based on your preference. Just ensure they are rinsed and drained before adding them to the chili.
How do I make this chili vegetarian?
To make this chili vegetarian, simply omit the beef and replace it with a combination of lentils or additional beans and some hearty vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added texture.
Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep!
What toppings go well with chili?
Toppings can enhance your chili experience! Consider fresh cilantro, diced onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, or even tortilla chips for added crunch. Customize it to your taste!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef & Black Bean Chili is a must-try recipe that combines convenience with rich flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this chili promises to be a hit. Don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own! We’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe, so please leave a comment below and share your own variations. Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out our collection of ovial recipes on Pinterest and explore the wonderful world of flavors we have to offer!
For other comforting meals, consider trying our Slow Cooker Creamy Ham and Potato Chowder and Slow Cooker Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole.

Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef & Black Bean Chili
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Skillet
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs Beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) Black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (28 oz) Diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 Medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Chipotle chili powder
- 1 tbsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 2 cups Beef broth
- 1 Bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 cup Corn (frozen or fresh, optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
- Shredded cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large bowl, season the beef cubes with chipotle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the beef is evenly coated with the spices.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- In the slow cooker, add the seasoned beef, sautéed onion and garlic, black beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and bell pepper (if using). Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.
- If using corn, stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, and shredded cheese if desired.