Easy Crock Pot Lentil Chili

Lentil chili in bowl with beans and peppers and topped with cheese and other toppings with spoon scooping into the bowl.

5 from 3 votes

Easy Crock Pot Lentil Chili

A super simple dump and go Crock Pot Lentil Chili that is thick and hearty. Veggie packed and prepped in about 10 minutes. Slow cooked for ultimate flavor and spice. A cozy and filling meal and perfect with all your favorite toppings!

Prep Time20

Cook Time4

Total Time4 20

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American

Servings:

Author: Lorie Yarro

Ingredients

1/2 red onion diced
1 red bell pepper diced
1 green bell pepper diced
1 1/4 c dried lentils rinsed
2 cans kidney beans 15 oz.
2 cans diced tomatoes, not drained 15 oz.
2 cans tomato sauce (15 oz.)
1½ c vegetable broth
1½ T chili powder
2 - 3 garlic cloves minced
2 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika I prefer smoked paprika
1 tsp oregano
¼ tsp crushed red pepper
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp cracked pepper
2 T tomato paste

Instructions

Add all ingredients except for the tomato paste into slow cooker. I often start with 1 1/2 of the tomato sauce cans and then add more if desired in the end.
Cover and set to HIGH for 4-6 hours or until lentils are tender or on LOW for about 6-8 hours.
About 15-30 minutes before serving, add in the tomato paste. This will thicken the chili. If it becomes too thick, add more broth to balance.
Serve with your favorite chili toppings!

Notes

- Storage: To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, allow it to cool completely and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. You can freeze individual servings for a quick meal for one!
- Keep some extra broth on hand when making this vegan chili recipe. If your chili thickens too quickly or if the lentils absorb too much of it, just add in some extra broth about 1/4 cup at a time. Everyone has their chili thickness preference, adjust to yours.
- You can use any dry lentils. Green will have a bit more chew to them and cook up al dente. If you don't want the extra chewiness, use red or brown lentils.

Nutrition