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Easy Crockpot Chili with Butternut Squash and Black Beans

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A hearty, dump-and-go crockpot chili featuring tender butternut squash and black beans in a smoky, slightly sweet broth. Perfect for cold nights and meal prep, this vegan and gluten-free recipe requires minimal effort for maximum comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 cups peeled and cubed)
  • 2 cans black beans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained
  • 1 can tomato sauce (8 oz)
  • 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Prep the squash: Peel the butternut squash with a vegetable peeler, cut off the top and bottom, then slice in half lengthwise. Scoop out seeds and stringy bits. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Dice the onion into small pieces (about 1/4-inch).
  3. Mince the garlic cloves.
  4. Layer ingredients in the crockpot: Add cubed squash, diced onion, minced garlic, drained black beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and vegetable broth. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Add spices: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over the top. Stir until evenly distributed.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until squash is fork-tender and flavors have melded.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice if desired.
  8. Serve hot with desired toppings.

Notes

This chili is very forgiving. If left on low for an extra hour, it’s fine. For a thicker chili, mash some squash against the side of the pot. For extra flavor, toast the chili powder and cumin in a dry skillet for 30 seconds before adding. Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup. The chili tastes even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: crockpot chili, butternut squash chili, black bean chili, vegan chili, gluten-free chili, slow cooker chili, easy chili recipe

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