Crock Pot Pinto Beans Recipe

Making homemade pinto beans is easier than ever with this no-soak, crock pot recipe. It is the perfect side complement to any meal!

Pinto beans are one of my favorite side dishes. While we usually purchase them in a can and then season them on the stove top, nothing beats homemade pinto beans.

This recipe is very easy to make, requires no pre-soaking of the beans before cooking, and the flavor is absolutely fantastic. Whether you are looking to up your bean game for the protein of your meal or just hoping to wow your guests with a delicious side dish, I think you’re really going to love our slow cooker pinto beans recipe!

Do You Have to Soak Pinto Beans Before Cooking in the Crock Pot?

This is a matter of personal preference. However, in my experience, when you cook your pinto beans in the slow cooker for more than five hours, there are really no added benefits to soaking your beans. This recipe results in soft and flavorful beans with no soaking required!

How Long Do You Cook Pinto Beans in the Crock Pot?

Cooking pinto beans in a crock pot does take time – but fortunately, the prep time is a breeze. I recommend cooking these on low for the best texture and flavor, generally taking 8-10 hours. The recipe can be pretty forgiving as long as you have enough liquid in the pot. You can cook this recipe on high for 4-6 hours, but I recommend cooking on low if you have the time.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pinto beans
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp minced garlic 
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 bay leaf
• 7 cups water + bouillon (or 7 cups of prepared broth)
• 4 oz can green chilies 
• 1 teaspoon salt

How to Cook Crock Pot Pinto Beans

Rinse pinto beans with water and pick out any bad pieces

Add water and bullion cubes/paste (or broth) with the beans to your crock pot.

Melt butter on stove and over medium-low heat, saute onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.

Add green chiles, onion and garlic mixture, and all other seasonings to the crock pot. Mix well.

Cook on low for 8-10 hours. Remove bay leaf before serving.

How Do I Season

There are a variety of seasonings that you can use for your Pinto beans. I like to use a premade taco seasoning from the store for simplicity.

However, you can also use your own blends of:

• Cumin
• Oregano
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Pepper
• Bay leaf

You can also choose to make your own taco seasoning.

Black Beans vs. Pinto Beans

Black beans and pinto beans are both popular choices, and they are often served side-by-side at quick-service restaurants like Qdoba and Cafe Rio. While they are both in the legume family, there are some key differences to keep in mind.

Pinto beans tend to be:

• Softer in texture
• Often used in refried beans
• Higher in calories, carbs, and fiber
• Mild in flavor
• Great for creamier dips

Black Beans are:

• Firmer in texture
• More intense flavor
• Better for salsas
• Lower in fat

They are both great options!

How to Eat Crock Pot Pinto Beans

This recipe is great when it’s served as a side dish. We made these to go along Qdoba queso for a nacho bar. You can also eat these as the protein for a main dish. Our family likes to use them as a side dish for a variety of dishes, such as:

• Fajitas
• Tacos
• Nachos
• Chicken dishes
• With rice
• Served with tortillas and other toppings

We hope you’ll enjoy this easy recipe as much as our family does!

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• Salsa Dip with Cream Cheese
• Easy Freezer Peach Salsa Recipe
• Easy Guacamole Salsa Recipe – Only 6 Ingredients!