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Slow Cooker Black Beans

In the mood for a hearty, savory dish that's sure to satisfy? We've got you covered with our Slow Cooker Black Beans with Bacon! This simple recipe, ready with just a bit of hands-on time, combines the creaminess of slow-cooked black beans with the smoky flavor of bacon. It's a side that's not only delicious but also teaches you the beauty of slow cooking, transforming simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect for family dinners or a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, Gluten Free, Healthy
Keyword Mexican, spicy
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings 12
Calories 212kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dried black beans soaked overnight
  • 8 ounces bacon optional; for a vegan option add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 large white onion diced (or 2 small)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder preferably ancho chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon oregano preferably Mexican Oregano
  • 4 cups chicken broth more as needed
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt

Instructions

  • Drain black beans and place in your slow cooker.
  • Add bacon, onion, garlic powder, bay leaf, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and broth.
  • Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, adding the salt in the last 30 minutes.
  • Add more liquid as needed.

Notes

Tips, Variations and Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Black Beans

Tips

  • Do not skip soaking and rinsing!
  • I recommend testing at the 6-hour mark if you are cooking on low or at 3 hours if cooking on high. 
  • This recipe freezes very well! I like to divide store them in 1 ½ cup portions, which is the same as most cans.  To use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.  (See FAQ for more on freezing.)
Variations
  • For an extra kick, add in ¼ - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • I like to serve these with a squeeze of fresh lime juice on top.
  • Add in dried avocado leaves.  Avocado leave add an authentic Mexican flavor that is reminiscent of anise.
  • Add in a diced green onion.
Serving Suggestions - Recipes

Nutrition

Calories: 212kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 1111mg | Potassium: 725mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 55IU | Vitamin C: 6.2mg | Calcium: 57mg | Iron: 2.6mg