2.5 lbs lean ground beef
2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 large onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tbsp chili powder
2 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (the secret!)
Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings: shredded cheese, Greek yogurt, green onions, avocado
Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Add beef, both types of beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the slow cooker, then stir in all spices.
Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. 30 minutes before serving, stir in cottage cheese until fully incorporated.