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Cozy Crockpot Beef & Butternut Squash Chili

crockpot beef and butternut squash chili - featured image
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A simple, 5-ingredient slow cooker chili where butternut squash naturally thickens the broth, creating a creamy, comforting meal without the need for browning or flour.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 ground chuck recommended)
  • 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5-ounce) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder blend (including cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika)
  • 2 cups beef broth

Instructions

  1. Peel the butternut squash, remove seeds, and cube the flesh into 1-inch pieces.
  2. Add the raw ground beef to the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, breaking it up with hands or a spoon.
  3. Add the cubed squash, drained black beans, diced tomatoes with juices, chili powder blend, and beef broth to the slow cooker.
  4. Stir gently to distribute spices evenly without mashing the squash.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
  6. Check for doneness after 6 hours; squash should be tender when pierced with a fork.
  7. If desired, mash some squash against the side of the pot to thicken the chili or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

Notes

For best results, do not stir too often during cooking to maintain heat. Let the chili rest for an hour after cooking to allow flavors to meld. If using frozen squash, add it directly without thawing but reduce broth slightly as it releases more water. For a thicker consistency, mash some of the squash against the pot walls.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chili, butternut squash, ground beef, easy dinner, comfort food, healthy chili, gluten-free

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/cozy-crockpot-beef-and-butternut-squash-chili-5-ingredient-easy-dinner/