Slow Cooker Southern-Style Pinto Bean Stew with Smoked Sausage, Tomatoes, and Garlic
A hearty and flavorful Southern-style pinto bean stew slow-cooked to tender perfection, featuring smoky sausage, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a comforting dinner with rich, deep flavors.
Ingredients
Check ingredients as you go.
- Stew Base
- Protein
- Vegetables
- Stew Base
- Liquids
- Seasoning
- Cooking
- Garnish
Let’s make it
Preparation
Rinse pinto beans thoroughly and pick out any debris. Soak them for at least 1 hour or overnight if possible, then drain.
Preparation
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add diced yellow onion and minced garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Assembly
Transfer sautéed onions and garlic to slow cooker. Add soaked and drained pinto beans, sliced smoked sausage, canned diced tomatoes with juices, chicken broth, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir to combine.
Cooking
Cover slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until beans are tender and stew is flavorful. Stir occasionally if possible.
Final Touches
About 15 minutes before serving, season stew with salt to taste and adjust pepper if needed. Let stew sit with lid off to thicken slightly if desired.
Serving
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy with cornbread or steamed rice for a complete Southern-style meal.
Tips & notes
Soaking the beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves texture, but quick soaking works too. Skimming foam during early cooking can prevent bitterness. Use smoked sausage for authentic flavor; kielbasa or andouille are good options.
Saving it for later
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout.
Reheating
Reheat the stew over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave until hot, stirring halfway through. Heat to at least 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
