Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process for making this delicious, slow-cooked dish.

Step 1: Prep the Pinto Beans

Start by rinsing your dried pinto beans thoroughly. Place them in a large colander and run cold water over them to remove any dirt or debris. You don’t need to soak the beans overnight for this recipe, as the slow cooker will do the job of cooking them slowly and tenderly.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir occasionally to ensure the beef cooks evenly. Once browned and fully cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes or until they are softened and translucent. The garlic should be fragrant—around 1 minute. This step builds flavor and helps release the natural sweetness of the onion.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Now it’s time to transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the rinsed pinto beans, the browned ground beef, sautéed onions, and garlic to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine.

Next, add the can of diced green chilies, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt to the slow cooker. Stir the mixture well to evenly distribute the spices throughout.

Pour in the beef broth, ensuring that the beans are covered with liquid. If needed, add a little more broth or water to ensure the beans are fully submerged. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Set the slow cooker to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the beef is fully cooked and flavorful. You can also cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours, but cooking it on low for a longer time will develop the flavors even more.

During the cooking process, give the mixture a stir once or twice to ensure the beans cook evenly and the flavors meld together. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon to create a creamy texture.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, check the beans for doneness. They should be soft and creamy. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, cumin, or chili powder to your liking.

When you’re happy with the flavors, serve the dish hot. You can garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. The dish is perfect on its own, or you can serve it over rice for a more substantial meal.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef

• Pre-soak the Beans (Optional): Although soaking the beans overnight isn’t necessary, you can soak the beans for a few hours before cooking if you prefer. This will reduce the cooking time and can make the beans a bit creamier.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more diced green chiles or a dash of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, if you want a milder dish, reduce the chili powder or use mild green chiles.
• Customize the Protein: While ground beef works beautifully in this recipe, you can swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even shredded pork for a different twist.
• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, feel free to toss in some diced bell peppers, carrots, or corn toward the end of the cooking time. These vegetables will add color and flavor to the dish.

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef

This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile and customizable. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a side dish, or over rice, it’s a hearty meal that will satisfy your taste buds. Plus, with the slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting, it’s a great option for busy days.

Packed with protein, fiber, and a mix of zesty and savory flavors, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping. The best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day!

So, the next time you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and hassle-free meal, look no further than Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef. It’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends every time!