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Bowl of Easy Crockpot Ham and Beans served with cornbread and fresh vegetables.

Easy Crockpot Ham and Beans

A cozy, filling dish made with pinto beans and smoky ham, perfect for comfort food days.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 9 hours
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound Pinto beans (dry) Rinse and pick through for stones.
  • 1 piece Smoked ham hock or meaty ham bone Adds deep smoky flavor.
  • 1 cup Onion (diced) Provides sweetness and depth.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Can substitute with garlic powder.
  • 4 cups Chicken broth or water Cover beans by about an inch.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Add more at the end to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black pepper Add according to preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown sugar or hot sauce Optional but enhances flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the pinto beans and pick through for any stones.
  2. Add the beans to the slow cooker.
  3. Top with diced onion, minced garlic, and the ham hock.
  4. Pour in enough chicken broth or water to cover the beans by about an inch.
Cooking
  1. Cook on low for 8 to 9 hours until the beans are tender.
  2. Once done, remove the ham hock and let cool briefly before shredding the meat.
  3. Return the shredded meat to the pot and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  4. For a thicker consistency, mash a small scoop of beans against the side of the pot and stir in.

Notes

Slow cookers vary, keep an eye on liquid levels. Add water or broth if it looks dry during cooking. For added flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or smoked paprika at the end.