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How to Make Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or stew beef) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon if using ground beef. If using stew beef, brown the pieces on all sides.
- Once the beef is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. If there’s any excess fat, drain it before adding the beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
- To the slow cooker, add the rinsed and soaked pinto beans (or canned beans, if using), diced onion, minced garlic, green chiles, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and oregano.
- Pour in the beef broth, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together. If you’re using stew beef, you may want to cook it for closer to 8 hours for the beef to become tender.
- If the mixture is too thick toward the end of cooking, you can add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the beans are soft and the beef is tender, give the dish a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro. For extra flavor, top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or crispy tortilla chips.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is so flavorful and filling on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Rice: Serve over a bed of white or brown rice for a heartier meal.
- Tacos or Burritos: Use the mixture as a filling for tacos, burritos, or soft tacos.
- Cornbread: A warm slice of cornbread is perfect for soaking up all the flavorful broth.
- Tortilla Chips: Serve it with a side of tortilla chips for a fun crunch and dipping option.
Tips for Success
- Soaking the Beans: If using dry beans, soak them for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure they cook evenly and tenderize properly. If you’re short on time, you can skip soaking and use canned pinto beans.
- Beef Options: Ground beef is quick and easy, but stew beef adds a more hearty, flavorful texture. If using stew beef, be sure to cook the dish long enough for the beef to tenderize.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chiles or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Thicken It Up: If you like a thicker stew, use a slotted spoon to remove a portion of the beans and mash them, then return the mixture to the slow cooker. This will create a heartier texture.
Why This Recipe Works
Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef is a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when combined and cooked low and slow, can result in a deeply flavorful and satisfying dish. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the beans to soften and absorb the savory broth while the beef becomes tender and infused with all the spices. The green chiles add just the right amount of heat, making this dish a true comfort meal that everyone will love.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a gathering, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s delicious on its own or as part of a larger spread, and it’s sure to leave you feeling warm and satisfied. Try this slow cooker comfort meal today and let the slow-cooked magic happen!
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