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Slow Cooker Ranch-Style Pinto Beans
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Makes: 6 servings

Unlike sweeter, molasses-y Boston Baked Beans, these pintos are savory with a bit of heat. Soak the beans overnight and then put them in the slow cooker with beef broth, tomato sauce, chili powder, ancho chile powder, garlic, jalapeño, and a ham hock for some fatty, smoky flavor. Let them cook until softened and saucy, and serve with Cheesy Enchiladas for a Tex-Mex meal.

Game plan: Be sure to soak the beans the night before you plan on making this recipe.

The beans can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating over low heat.



  1. 1Place the beans in a large bowl and pick through them, discarding any broken beans or stones. Cover the beans with at least 3 inches of cold water and allow them to soak uncovered at room temperature for at least 8 hours. Drain in a colander and place in a 3-quart or larger slow cooker.
  2. 2Add the remaining measured ingredients except the ham hock and stir until combined. Nestle the ham hock in the center of the mixture at the bottom of the slow cooker. Cover and cook until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened slightly, about 6 hours on high or 7 to 8 hours on low. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  3. 3If desired, remove the ham hock to a cutting board. When it’s cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bone (discard the skin and bone), shred it into bite-sized pieces, and stir it back into the beans.
  • Slow Cooker Ranch-Style Pinto Beans
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