I don’t know about you, but where I am is JUST starting to feel like spring! This past weekend was gorgeous, it’s supposed to be 60 today … but the past few weeks have been pretty chilly for April! We still have had a few chilly days, a few cold nights, and even some frosty mornings. That being said, I am trying to embrace it. So yes, we’re still eating soups, chilis and other wintry foods. Truth be told? I love chili and hot soup all year round so at least food-wise, I can’t complain.

Looking for a meat free chili that you can set and forget about? Here you go! I made this chili in the crockpot one night when I knew we’d only have 30 min to prepare and eat dinner … and since I like to sit and enjoy a meal, I knew I wanted to spend the 30 minutes eating (and not cooking/cleaning). This was the perfect solution, and even B enjoyed his meatless bowl! Just in time for Meatless Monday, here’s a slow cooker vegetarian chili you can enjoy.

Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Bean Chili

Here’s what you need:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into cubes
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, diced
• 2 red bell peppers, diced
• 2 jalapeno peppers, sliced
• 1 cup cauliflower, diced
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilis
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce (or even better, homemade!)
• 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 Tablespoons ancho chile powder
• 1-2 Tablespoons ground cumin (to taste)
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper or more (or to taste)
• hot sauce (I like cholula) to taste
• Optional toppings: Greek yogurt, cheese, avocado, cilantro, more hot sauce

Here’s what you do

1. Place all the diced and chopped veggies in the crockpot (squash, onion, garlic, peppers, cauliflower).
2. Cover veggies with canned tomatoes, sauce, beans and spices (chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper).
3. Set crock pot on low for 7-8 hours. Add in hot sauce before serving and when plated (or bowled)? add your additional toppings! I love topping mine with cheese and avocado (vegetarian) or just avocado (vegan).

Some questions for you:

• How do you like your chili? Meaty? Beany? Tons of veggies?
•  Do you have any good vegetarian crockpot recipes?

Joining this Meatless Monday linkup again!