Slow Cooker Pinto Beans ~

Dry pinto beans slow-cooked with warm, aromatic spices.

Serve with Spanish Rice and Cornbread.

Table of Contents

Crock Pot Pinto Beans Recipe

Making a big pot of beans is the best way to enjoy the rich, flavorful beans without all the fuss of soaking or having to watch them on the stovetop. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, these beans are an easy way to bring warm, earthy flavor to the table.

Slow cooking allows the spices to meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Perfect as a side dish or as a base for other meals, these beans can easily elevate any dish with their hearty texture and robust taste.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pinto Beans

You will need the following:

1 pound dried pinto beans
1/2 cup yellow onion, chopped
1 tablespoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon liquid smoke
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
6 cups water

Ingredient Notes

Pinto Beans – Dry beans are best for achieving the ideal texture and flavor in this recipe; canned beans are not recommended.
Yellow Onion – The mild sweetness of yellow onion complements the beans beautifully. There’s also no need to pre-cook the onion; the slow cooking process will soften it naturally.
Seasonings – The blend of chili powder, cumin, and black pepper adds depth and warmth to the dish.
Liquid Smoke – This vegan ingredient, found on the condiment aisle of the grocery store, adds a lightly smoky flavor, mimicking the taste of ham hock found in many similar recipes.

How to Make Slow Cooker Pinto Beans

STEP ONE: Rinse the Beans. Rinse the dry pinto beans under cold water and transfer them to a 6-quart slow cooker.

STEP TWO: Add Ingredients. Add the chopped onion, salt, chili powder, liquid smoke, cumin, black pepper, and water. Stir to combine.

STEP THREE: Cook. Cover and seal the lid. Cook on the high setting for 5 hours, or until the beans are tender (exact cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker). Serve hot.

FAQ

Do the beans need to be soaked? No, soaking is not necessary for this recipe.
How long do I cook the beans if I double the recipe? The cooking time remains the same; just ensure the slow cooker has enough capacity.
How can I thicken the beans if they are too watery? To thicken, simply cook the beans uncovered for a bit longer to allow some liquid to evaporate.
What can I serve with the pinto beans? Pinto beans pair well with rice, tortillas, or as a filling for burritos and tacos.

Storage

Store leftover beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

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