Discover the ultimate comfort food with our incredible Slow Cooker Pinto Beans recipe. This dish transforms simple dried pinto beans into a flavorful, hearty meal, seasoned to perfection with your choice of smoked turkey, rich ham hocks, or savory bacon. The beauty of using a slow cooker, or Crockpot, lies in its ability to tenderize the beans and infuse them with deep, smoky flavors over hours, requiring minimal effort from you. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or preparing a nutritious side dish for a gathering, these pinto beans are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. They are an absolute staple in Southern cuisine, renowned for their creamy texture and robust taste, making them an ideal partner for a slice of warm, homemade cornbread.
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Table of Contents
What Type of Beans to Use
For this comforting slow cooker dish, we specifically use dried pinto beans. Pinto beans are a beloved member of the legume family, which also includes popular varieties like navy, black, and kidney beans. They are especially prevalent and cherished in Southern and Mexican culinary traditions, forming the backbone of many iconic dishes. Their distinctive appearance, a creamy or tan base adorned with reddish-brown splotches, is where they get their name; “pinto” is Spanish for “painted” or “spotted,” aptly describing their beautiful pattern.
Beyond their visual appeal and delicious flavor, pinto beans are a nutritional powerhouse. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, essential for digestive health and maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Furthermore, they provide a significant amount of plant-based protein, making them a fantastic ingredient for vegetarian and vegan diets when prepared without meat. Rich in vital minerals and vitamins, including thiamine (Vitamin B1), iron, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, pinto beans contribute to overall well-being, supporting energy metabolism, red blood cell formation, and bone health. Their earthy, slightly nutty flavor and creamy texture when cooked make them perfect for absorbing the rich, savory seasonings of a slow cooker preparation.
Do You Have to Soak the Beans Overnight?
When cooking with dried beans in a slow cooker, the question of whether to soak them beforehand often arises. While it’s not strictly mandatory, pre-soaking dried pinto beans offers several significant advantages that can greatly improve your cooking experience and the final dish. Soaking helps to rehydrate the beans, which in turn reduces their overall cooking time in the slow cooker by several hours. This means you can achieve perfectly tender beans much faster, making dinner prep more efficient.
Beyond speeding up the cooking process, soaking also contributes to a better texture in the cooked beans, ensuring they become uniformly soft and creamy rather than having some still-hard spots. Additionally, soaking can aid in digestibility by helping to break down some of the complex sugars that can cause gas and bloating. You have two main options for soaking: the traditional overnight method, which involves placing the beans in a large bowl and covering them with water for 8-12 hours, or a quicker stovetop method. For the quick soak, simply bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, add the rinsed dried beans, boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let them sit, covered, for at least one hour before draining. If you choose to skip soaking entirely, be prepared for your slow cooker pinto beans to take an additional 2-4 hours to reach the desired tenderness.
What Type of Meat to Use
The choice of smoked meat is paramount in developing the rich, savory depth that makes slow cooker pinto beans so irresistible. For this recipe, I particularly enjoy using a smoked turkey leg or wing. These cuts of turkey impart a wonderful smoky flavor without being overly greasy, and the meat becomes incredibly tender and falls off the bone during the long cooking process. You can often find smoked turkey pieces at your local grocery store, especially in the meat or deli section, or consider checking with a local butcher for high-quality options.
However, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. If smoked turkey isn’t readily available or you simply prefer other flavors, there are several fantastic alternatives that will lend their unique character to your pinto beans. Classic Southern options include ham hocks, which release a gelatinous richness and deep pork flavor, or salt pork, known for its intense saltiness and fatty goodness. Country ham, with its distinct cure and robust taste, is another excellent choice. For a quicker and widely available option, crispy bacon can also be used; simply cook it separately, crumble it, and add it to the beans for a burst of salty, smoky flavor. Each of these meats will infuse your slow cooker pinto beans with a distinct savory profile, ensuring a truly comforting and satisfying meal.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pinto Beans
Creating a delicious batch of slow cooker pinto beans is surprisingly straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for busy days when you crave hearty, homemade flavor. The magic happens with minimal hands-on time, allowing the slow cooker to do all the work of tenderizing and infusing the beans with incredible taste. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the simple steps:
- Prepare the Beans: Begin by thoroughly rinsing your dried pinto beans under cold water. This removes any dust or small debris. As mentioned earlier, soaking the beans beforehand is highly recommended. You can either opt for an overnight soak in a large bowl of water or a quick soak method (boil for a few minutes, then let rest for an hour). Draining and rinsing the beans after soaking is crucial before proceeding.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Once your beans are prepped, it’s time to assemble your dish. Place the soaked and drained pinto beans into your slow cooker. Add your chosen smoked meat (turkey leg/wing, ham hock, etc.), along with chopped white onion, minced garlic cloves, and a bay leaf. Pour in enough chicken broth (or your preferred liquid) to fully cover all the ingredients, ensuring the beans are completely submerged. Season generously with Creole seasoning or your preferred spice blend.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Secure the lid on your slow cooker and set it to the desired cooking temperature. Cook on HIGH for 4-6 hours or on LOW for 7-10 hours. The longer cooking time on a lower setting often results in a deeper flavor and more tender beans. The slow cooker gently simmers the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the beans to soften to a creamy consistency.
- Finish and Season: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully open the slow cooker. Remove and discard the bay leaf. If you used smoked turkey or a ham hock and prefer not to have large pieces of meat, carefully remove the bone and shred the tender meat using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot. Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is your chance to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to achieve your perfect flavor balance. The seasoning from the smoked meat will have permeated the beans, but a final adjustment is often necessary.
- Serve Warm: Ladle the hot, flavorful pinto beans into bowls. They are delicious served on their own as a comforting meal or as a hearty side dish. These beans pair exceptionally well with a variety of accompaniments, especially warm cornbread. Enjoy your perfectly cooked, savory slow cooker pinto beans!
What Kind of Stock/Broth to Use
The liquid you choose for your slow cooker pinto beans plays a crucial role in developing the overall flavor profile of the dish. While plain water can certainly be used, opting for a flavorful stock or broth will significantly enhance the richness and depth of your beans.
My preferred choice is chicken broth or chicken stock. Both provide a savory foundation that complements the smoky notes of the meat and the earthiness of the pinto beans beautifully. The main difference between broth and stock lies in their preparation; stock is typically made with bones and often contains more gelatin, giving it a richer body, while broth is made with meat and vegetables and tends to be lighter. Either works wonderfully in this recipe.
For those looking for a different flavor or adhering to specific dietary needs, vegetable broth is an excellent alternative. It offers a cleaner, lighter taste that allows the natural flavors of the beans and any added spices to shine. If you’re incorporating a rich, fatty smoked meat like ham hocks, vegetable broth can also help balance the richness. Beef broth could also be an option for a deeper, more robust flavor, especially if you’re pairing with other beef dishes.
Ultimately, choose a broth that aligns with your taste preferences and any dietary restrictions. Just ensure you use enough liquid to completely cover the beans and other ingredients in the slow cooker, as they will absorb a significant amount during the long cooking process.
Cook Time/How Long Does it Take to Cook
One of the great advantages of using a slow cooker for pinto beans is the flexibility in cooking times, allowing you to fit this delicious meal into almost any schedule. Generally, this recipe calls for cooking the pinto beans for 4-6 hours on the HIGH setting or 7-10 hours on the LOW setting. The exact duration can vary based on several factors, including the age of your dried beans, whether they were pre-soaked, and the specific model and efficiency of your slow cooker.
Cooking on the LOW setting for a longer period is often recommended for developing the deepest flavors and achieving the most tender, creamy texture without the risk of overcooking or drying out the beans. However, if you’re short on time, the HIGH setting works perfectly fine, just keep a closer eye on them. To determine if your pinto beans are perfectly cooked, simply take one bean out of the pot and mash it with a spoon or fork. It should be soft and creamy, easily yielding to pressure. If it’s still firm in the center, continue cooking and check again after another 30 minutes to an hour. Don’t be afraid to taste them throughout the cooking process to ensure they reach your preferred level of tenderness.
Are They Served Whole or Mashed?
The wonderful thing about slow cooker pinto beans is their versatility in serving style, allowing you to customize them precisely to your preference. We typically enjoy our pinto beans served whole, where each bean retains its distinct shape while being incredibly tender and bursting with flavor. This allows for a satisfying texture that holds up well, whether served as a side or a main dish.
However, if you prefer a creamier consistency, feel free to mash them once they are fully cooked. You can achieve this by using a potato masher directly in the slow cooker, or by carefully transferring a portion of the beans and their liquid to a separate bowl and mashing them there. Some people enjoy a partially mashed texture, leaving some beans whole for visual appeal and textural contrast. Mashed pinto beans are often used as a base for burritos, tacos, or as a rich, savory spread. It truly is a matter of personal preference, so feel free to experiment and discover how you like them best!
How to Double the Recipe
Batch cooking is a fantastic way to ensure you always have a comforting meal ready, and this slow cooker pinto bean recipe is perfect for scaling up. Doubling the recipe is incredibly easy and highly recommended for meal prep or feeding a larger crowd. When you double the amount of dried pinto beans and all other ingredients, you’ll need to ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is typically suitable for a doubled batch.
Interestingly, when doubling the ingredients, the overall cook time generally remains the same. This is because the slow cooker’s temperature settings remain consistent, and the additional volume primarily extends the time it takes for the entire pot to reach the cooking temperature, not necessarily the time required for the beans themselves to soften once that temperature is achieved. However, it’s always wise to monitor the beans closely towards the end of the suggested cooking range to ensure they reach your desired tenderness. You can use the same amount of smoked meat (e.g., one large smoked turkey leg) or opt for a slightly larger piece to maintain the same rich smoky flavor intensity in the larger batch.
How to Make the Dish Vegan or Vegetarian
This slow cooker pinto bean recipe is wonderfully adaptable for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet, allowing you to enjoy all the comforting flavors without meat. The key is to make a few simple substitutions and additions to ensure the dish remains rich and flavorful. First and foremost, you’ll need to omit the smoked turkey or any other meat product. Instead of chicken broth, use a high-quality vegetable broth as your liquid base to maintain a savory depth.
To replicate the smoky essence typically provided by meat, incorporate flavor-enhancing spices. Add at least ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, which will infuse the beans with a beautiful, deep smokiness. For an extra kick and warmth, include ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. You can also consider adding a dash of liquid smoke (use sparingly, as it’s potent) or a pinch of chipotle powder for a deeper, spicier smokiness. Sautéing your onions and garlic in olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker can also build a more robust flavor foundation. With these adjustments, your vegan or vegetarian pinto beans will be just as hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.
How Long Will They Last in the Fridge
One of the many benefits of making a big batch of slow cooker pinto beans is their excellent keeping quality, making them perfect for meal prepping throughout the week. Once cooked and cooled, these pinto beans will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. To ensure maximum freshness and food safety, it’s crucial to store them properly. Transfer the cooled beans, along with their delicious cooking liquid, into an airtight container. This prevents air exposure, which can lead to spoilage and loss of flavor. Make sure the container is tightly sealed before placing it in the fridge. When reheating, gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if they seem too thick, to restore their perfect consistency and warmth.
Freezer Tips
Slow cooker pinto beans are an ideal candidate for freezing, offering a convenient way to have a wholesome, homemade meal ready whenever you need it. These beans freeze beautifully and can be stored for up to 9 months, making them a fantastic “cook once, eat many times” staple. The key to successful freezing and defrosting is proper preparation.
First, allow the cooked pinto beans to cool completely before portioning them. I highly recommend freezing them along with some of their flavorful broth. This liquid helps to protect the beans from freezer burn, maintains their moisture content, and ensures they are still “loaded with flavor” once defrosted. You can portion them into individual serving sizes in freezer-safe bags or containers, which makes thawing incredibly easy for single meals or smaller portions. Alternatively, freeze larger batches if you plan to feed a family. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from freezer bags to prevent ice crystals and freezer burn, or use airtight containers.
When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer the frozen beans to the refrigerator overnight to thaw, or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a little extra broth or water if they appear too thick after thawing.
Pair With Cornbread
No Southern-inspired meal of pinto beans is truly complete without the perfect accompaniment of cornbread. The savory, earthy flavors of slow-cooked pinto beans find their ideal match in the slightly sweet and crumbly texture of freshly baked cornbread. It’s a classic pairing that offers both comfort and a delightful contrast in textures, allowing you to scoop up every last drop of the rich bean broth. Here are some fantastic cornbread recipes that would perfectly complement your slow cooker pinto beans:
- Homemade Southern Cornbread
- Cornbread Muffins
- Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
- Honey Cornbread
- Air Fryer Cornbread
- Southern Cornbread Dressing
- Pumpkin Cornbread
- Cornbread Casserole
- Sweet Potato Cornbread
More Slow Cooker Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and delicious results of cooking in a slow cooker, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of comforting, flavorful dishes you can create with minimal effort. The slow cooker is perfect for tenderizing meats, simmering stews, and creating hearty meals that warm the soul. If you enjoyed these pinto beans, consider exploring these other fantastic slow cooker recipes:
- Slow Cooker Oxtail
- Slow Cooker Neck Bones
- Slow Cooker Turkey Necks
- Slow Cooker Black Eyed Peas
- Slow Cooker Cheeseburger Soup
- Slow Cooker Chili Mac
For those who prefer a more traditional cooking method, don’t forget to check out our Ham Hocks and Beans stovetop version, offering a different take on this beloved classic.
Slow Cooker Pinto Beans with Smoked Turkey Recipe
Brandi Crawford
Pin Recipe
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Slotted Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped white onion
- 3 garlic cloves Minced.
- 5-6 cups chicken broth Use enough to fully cover the beans. You can also use water.
- 1 pound bag dried pinto beans Rinsed
- 1 – 1 ½ pounds smoked turkey leg or wing Fully cooked. See notes for substitutions.
- 1 teaspoon Creole Seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Fill a Dutch oven or soup pot with water (enough to cover the pinto beans) and place it on the stove to boil. Once the water has boiled, remove it from the heat and add the pinto beans. Allow the beans to soak for 1 hour and then drain. Alternatively, you can soak the beans overnight.
- Add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker.
- Cook for 4-6 hours on High or 7-10 hours on Low. You can test if they are done by grabbing one bean out of the pot and mashing it with a spoon or fork.
- Open up the pot and remove the bay leaf and smoked turkey. If you like meat in your beans, use 2 forks and shred the meat from the turkey and return it to the pot. Taste repeatedly and add salt and pepper to taste if needed.
- Serve.
Notes
- Not soaking the beans in advance will likely add a couple of hours to your cook time.
- Rinse the beans first to remove any surface dirt.
- Decide how you like your beans. Do you like them firm, soft, or mushy? Check in on the beans frequently while they cook.
- You can use ham hocks, a leftover ham bone, salt pork, country ham, or even bacon to season the beans.
- You can double the recipe and use the same amount of smoked turkey or opt for one slightly larger. The cook time will remain the same.
- You can substitute Creole seasoning for whatever flavor or spice blend you like.
- Canned beans don’t take long to cook. You may want to cook your smoked turkey in broth for a couple of hours separately, and then add the canned beans to that pot.
Nutrition
Nutrition Data
Macros are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is calculated using MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.