A hearty and healthy slow cooker Texas beef chili made with lean ground beef and plenty of green vegetables. This chili is packed with flavor, protein, and fiber, perfect for a nutritious and comforting meal.
1 pound lean ground beef (95% lean)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
1 medium poblano pepper, diced
2 cups chopped fresh spinach
1 (14.5 ounce) can no-salt-added diced tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can no-salt-added kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 ounce) can no-salt-added black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
Add the diced green bell pepper, diced poblano pepper, chopped spinach, diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and tomato paste until well combined.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
After cooking, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired.
Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime (not included in ingredients).