I’ve been making red beans in a crock pot for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite recipes. The dish has its roots in traditional Southern cuisine, where it was often served at family gatherings and special occasions.
I love how the slow cooker tenderizes the beans to perfection, making them easy to digest and packed with flavor. My kids adore this recipe because it’s a comforting, hearty meal that warms their bellies and lifts their spirits.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make – just toss all the ingredients into the crock pot and let the magic happen. One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is that it’s a great way to get some fiber and protein into our diets without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
Crock Pot Red Beans
4.8 from 1193 votes
A hearty and flavorful dish of red beans slow-cooked with smoked sausage and aromatic vegetables. This easy recipe delivers tender beans in a rich, savory broth perfect for serving over rice.
1 pound smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced into rounds
6 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
1Place the rinsed kidney beans in the slow cooker.
2In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and cook the onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
3Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, then transfer the vegetables to the slow cooker.
4In the same skillet, brown the sausage slices over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly browned on both sides.
5Transfer the sausage to the slow cooker, leaving any rendered fat behind.
6Pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker and add the bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using.
7Stir everything together until well combined.
8Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beans are tender and easily mashed with a fork.
9Once the beans are fully cooked, remove and discard the bay leaves.
10Taste the broth and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
11For a creamier texture, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the beans directly in the slow cooker.
For best results, soak the dried beans overnight in cold water before cooking to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. If you prefer a thicker broth, mash about one cup of the cooked beans against the side of the slow cooker and stir them back in. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Red Beans Works
This recipe is a staple in my household because it’s so easy to make and always turns out deliciously.
Whether we’re having a busy day and need something quick and easy for dinner, or we’re hosting a big family gathering and want something hearty and satisfying for our guests – this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
And as an added bonus, it’s packed with fiber, protein, and all sorts of other nutrients that will keep us feeling full and energized all day long.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Red Beans
1. What type of beans are best for this recipe?
I like to use kidney beans or pinto beans for this recipe because they hold their shape well and have a slightly firmer texture than other types of beans. You can also use black beans or red beans if you prefer – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Can I make this recipe in a Dutch oven or on the stovetop?
While you can make red beans on the stovetop or in a Dutch oven, I find that the crock pot really brings out the best flavor in this dish. If you do choose to make it on the stovetop, be sure to cook it over low heat for at least an hour to get the same level of tenderness.
3. How long does it take for the beans to cook in a crock pot?
The cooking time will depend on your personal preference for tenderness, but typically it takes around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
4. Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite spices, herbs, or other ingredients to customize this recipe to your taste. Some ideas might include diced ham or bacon for added smokiness, chopped bell peppers for extra crunch, or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
5. How do I store leftover red beans?
After they’ve cooled, transfer the leftover red beans to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze as needed.
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