Easy Slow Cooker Pinto Beans With Ham

For a smokier flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke to the beans.

Serve the beans with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top.

Add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy kick.

If the beans are too thick, add a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Consider using a ham hock or bacon for a richer flavor.

Add a bay leaf or a sprig of fresh thyme for an aromatic touch (remove before serving).

To make the dish heartier, stir in some cooked rice or quinoa before serving.

Try different types of meat like sausage or bacon for variety.

What other beans can I use in place of pinto beans?

You can substitute kidney beans or black beans for pinto beans in this recipe. Or even something like great white northern beans.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

You can use fresh diced tomatoes in place of canned, just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and add additional liquid as needed to account for the liquid in the undrained tomatoes.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To make the dish spicier, increase the amount of chili powder or add a dash of cayenne pepper. To reduce the heat, decrease the chili powder or omit it altogether.

Can I add more vegetables?

Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or squash.

How long will the leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze the beans in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I reheat the beans?

Reheat the beans on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave in a microwave-safe dish.

Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop instead of a crock pot?

You can saute the vegetables in a pot, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.

Non-Stick Skillet: For sauteing the onion, bell pepper, celery, and carrot until softened before adding them to the crock pot.

Crock Pot: The main tool needed for this recipe, as it is used to cook and combine all the ingredients together over low heat for a few hours.

Can Opener: To open the cans of pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.

Knife and Cutting Board: To finely chop the onion, bell pepper, celery, carrot, and to dice the cooked ham.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: For measuring out the ingredients like celery, ham, chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, etc.

Stirring Spoon or Spatula: To stir the vegetables while cooking in the skillet and to combine all the ingredients in the crock pot. A wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula works best.

Macaroni and Cheese: the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese is the perfect accompaniment to the hearty beans and ham.

Cornbread: the slightly sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread pairs perfectly with the smoky ham and savory beans.

Green Salad: balance out the heartiness of the beans and ham with a light, refreshing green salad.

Hot Sauce: kick up the heat a notch with some hot sauce. A drizzle of hot sauce over the beans and ham will add a spicy kick.