Craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful meal that's also good for you? Look no further than this 3-Bean Chili recipe! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to takeout. It's packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors, making it a satisfying and wholesome dinner option for the whole family. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be accessible and enjoyable. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
This 3-bean chili recipe is incredibly versatile, feel free to adjust the spices to your liking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
This quick dinner idea comes together in under an hour.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the Chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, Rotel, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired. Serve with your favorite sides like cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best 3-Bean Chili:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with spices! This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to adjust the spices to your preference. Add more chili powder for extra heat, or more cumin for an earthier flavor.
- For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot during the simmering process.
- Make it ahead! This chili tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or chopped mushrooms for extra protein and texture.
- Spicy Chili: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- White Chili: Use white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans) instead of kidney, pinto, and black beans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This healthy meal is packed with nutrients. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the ingredients you use.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 15-20 grams
This 3-bean chili is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy homemade cooking. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy!