Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Pinto Beans Recipe
You’re going to love this Slow Cooker Pinto Beans recipe because it combines simplicity with incredible flavor.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve thrown everything into the slow cooker and let it do all the work. The best part? I can set it and forget it!
After a few hours, my kitchen fills with a savory aroma that makes my mouth water. The beans become perfectly tender, soaking up all the delicious seasonings and smoky notes.
Plus, it’s a great dish for gatherings or meal prep. I enjoy serving it with cornbread or over rice, and it’s always a hit.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it again and again!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Pinto Beans
When it comes to cooking, having the right ingredients is key, and this Slow Cooker Pinto Beans recipe is no exception. It’s a delightful blend of hearty beans, smoky flavors, and savory goodness. Plus, you probably already have most of these items in your pantry or fridge! You’ll find that gathering the ingredients is a breeze, and once you have them, you can let your slow cooker do the heavy lifting. It’s like having a personal chef who doesn’t mind hanging out all day while you go about your business.
So, let’s explore what you need for this comforting dish.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pinto Beans
- 1 (16 ounce) bag dried pinto beans
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans of water
- 2 cups diced bacon
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/2 tablespoon Lawry’s seasoning salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- Frank’s Red Hot sauce (to taste)
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients for a moment. First off, if you’ve never used dried beans before, don’t be intimidated. They’re simple to work with, and they pack a punch of flavor and nutrition.
Just remember to rinse and sort the beans before tossing them in the slow cooker. You never know what little surprise might be hiding in there, and trust me, you don’t want that in your dinner.
As for the bacon, feel free to swap it out for turkey bacon or even a meatless option if you’re looking to cut down on fat or keep it vegetarian. The broth adds depth to the flavor, while the spices bring everything together.
And don’t get me started on the liquid smoke—it’s like the secret handshake of BBQ flavor that takes these beans to the next level. Just be sure to adjust the hot sauce to your liking; some folks like it spicy, while others prefer to keep it mild. It’s all about making this recipe your own!
How to Make Slow Cooker Pinto Beans
Alright, let’s plunge into the comforting world of Slow Cooker Pinto Beans. First things first, grab that 1 (16 ounce) bag of dried pinto beans, and let’s give them a good rinse. Rinsing is like giving your beans a spa day; it helps remove any dust or debris that might’ve tagged along for the ride.
Once they’re nice and clean, sort through them to make sure there are no tiny rocks or uninvited guests hiding among the beans. Nobody wants a surprise crunch in their dinner, right? After you’ve done your thorough inspection, toss those rinsed beans right into your slow cooker.
Now, let’s bring in the flavor brigade. Pour in 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can of chicken or vegetable broth—whatever floats your boat, and then add 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans of water. This is where the magic happens.
Next, we’re adding the party starters: 2 cups of diced bacon and 1 cup of diced onion. If you’re like me and have a love affair with bacon, feel free to throw in a bit extra. Who could resist that savory aroma wafting through the kitchen?
Now, it’s time to add the special touches: 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke for that delightful, smoky flavor, followed by 1/2 tablespoon of Lawry’s seasoning salt and a generous sprinkle of 1 tablespoon of black pepper. Don’t forget to add Frank’s Red Hot sauce to your liking. A little kick never hurt anyone, right?
Once you have everything in the slow cooker, give it a gentle stir to combine all those lovely ingredients. Now, set your slow cooker to low and let it do its thing for 8 to 12 hours. Yes, I know, it sounds like a long time, but trust me—good things come to those who wait.
Plus, you can go about your day without a care in the world, knowing that delicious, tender pinto beans are on their way. When the time is up, check to see if the beans are tender and flavorful. I often find myself sneaking a taste or two (or five) during this waiting period. It’s like an unspoken rule in the house.
Enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen, and get ready for a hearty meal that’s sure to warm your soul.
Slow Cooker Pinto Beans Substitutions & Variations
After letting those pinto beans simmer away, it’s time to get creative with some substitutions and variations.
If you want a vegetarian twist, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and leave out the bacon. For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
I love experimenting with spices, so consider adding cumin or smoked paprika for extra flavor. You can also mix in other beans like black beans or kidney beans for a hearty blend.
If you’re short on time, canned pinto beans can work in a pinch—just reduce the cooking time.
Don’t hesitate to personalize your recipe; it’s all about what you enjoy!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Pinto Beans
If you’re looking for delicious side dishes to complement your slow cooker pinto beans, you’ve got plenty of tasty options.
I love serving up cornbread alongside my beans; the sweet and savory combination is unbeatable. You might also consider a fresh coleslaw for a crunchy, invigorating contrast.
For something heartier, nachos topped with cheese, jalapeños, and guacamole make a fantastic pairing. If you’re in the mood for a salad, a zesty avocado and tomato salad adds brightness to the meal.
Don’t forget to offer some tortilla chips as a fun dipping option! With these sides, you’ll create a well-rounded, satisfying feast that everyone will enjoy.
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing slow cooker pinto beans, I always find a few tips can enhance the flavor and texture.
First, soaking the beans overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. If you want a richer flavor, consider adding diced tomatoes or green chilies to the mix.
Using a combination of chicken and vegetable broth can also elevate the taste. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning according to your preference; a touch of garlic powder or cumin can add depth.
Finally, if you like a bit of heat, add Frank’s Red Hot sauce to individual servings instead of the whole pot.
These simple tweaks can take your beans from good to unforgettable! Enjoy your cooking!