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Three Bean Beef Chili

Delicious Three Bean Beef Chili with a BBQ Kick

Savor the warmth of this Three Bean Beef Chili, infused with BBQ flavor for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • - Skillet
  • - Slow Cooker

Ingredients
  

For the Chili Base

  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef Use 90/10 or 93/7 for less grease.
  • 1 can Kidney Beans Drain and rinse to reduce sodium.
  • 1 can Pinto Beans Prepare the same way as kidney beans.
  • 1 can Black Beans Always drain and rinse before using.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes San Marzano variety is recommended.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Opt for low-sodium for a healthier option.
  • 1/2 cup Barbecue Sauce Choose a sauce you enjoy for the best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Balances acidity from the tomatoes.
  • 1 medium Onion Dice into 1/2-inch pieces for even cooking.
  • 2 tablespoons Chili Powder Adjust to your heat preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Provides an earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential seasoning.

For the Toppings

  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Sprinkle on top before serving.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Dollop on each serving as desired.
  • 1/4 cup Sliced Green Onions Optional, but recommended for presentation.

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Start by dicing the onion and setting it aside. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, cooking until fully browned. Drain excess grease for a lighter dish.
  • In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
  • Sprinkle in the chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper; toast for 1 minute to bloom the flavors.
  • Transfer the browned beef and onion mixture to a slow cooker. Add in the drained kidney, pinto, and black beans, along with the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, barbecue sauce, and brown sugar. Mix everything together until well combined.
  • Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
  • After cooking, skim any excess fat and adjust seasoning to taste, serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, try garnishing with fresh cilantro.
Keyword BBQ chili, beef chili, comfort food, family recipe, hearty chili, three bean chili