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Classic Beef and Bean Chili: Easy Slow Cooker Recipe

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A hearty, slow-cooker chili made with dried pinto beans and ground beef. This set-it-and-forget-it recipe creates a rich, creamy texture and deep flavor, perfect for cold nights and emergency meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 cups dried pinto beans, rinsed
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 small can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1.5 cups of dried pinto beans under cold water until clear, picking out any debris.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and a pinch of salt; cook for 5 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Brown thoroughly for 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if desired.
  5. Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
  6. Add rinsed beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
  7. Stir well to incorporate tomato paste and distribute spices evenly.
  8. Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours (or HIGH for 4-6 hours).
  9. Check consistency 1 hour before serving. If too thin, leave lid off for 30 minutes to reduce. If too thick, add splash of broth.
  10. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  11. Ladle into bowls and serve with desired toppings.

Notes

Do not skip rinsing the dried beans to prevent foaming. For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with lentils or extra beans. Chili tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chili, beef and bean chili, dried beans recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, freezer friendly, gluten-free

Find it online: https://miratable.com/classic-beef-and-bean-chili-easy-slow-cooker-recipe/