Slow Cooker Baked Beans with Bacon

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Get ready for a delicious adventure as we dive into the wonderful world of Slow Cooker Baked Beans with Bacon. Brace yourselves for a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds doing the happy dance!

Slow Cooker Baked Beans with Bacon

Now, picture this: tender navy beans slow-cooked to perfection in a rich and smoky tomato sauce, while mouthwatering chunks of crispy bacon add an irresistible crunch to every bite. Can you practically taste the awesomeness? Because we sure can! 

But here’s the best part, my friends: this recipe is so easy-peasy that even the most clueless cooks can whip it up like a pro. All you need is a trusty slow cooker, a few basic ingredients, and a sprinkle of excitement!

So, if you’re ready to elevate your comfort food game and have your friends and family beg for the secret to your amazing Slow Cooker Baked Beans with Bacon, then let’s get cooking! Dust off your apron, grab those ingredients, and let the magic unfold in your kitchen. It’s time to create something truly mouth-watering! 

You might enjoy these recipes:

• Classic Slow Cooker Chili
• Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Beef
• Slow Cooker Southwestern Breakfast Casserole

Are you in? Let’s do this! 

Can you put raw beans in slow cooker?

While it’s generally not recommended to cook raw beans directly in a slow cooker without pre-soaking or boiling, it can be done with caution. If you choose to use raw beans in a slow cooker, ensure they are fully submerged in liquid and that the slow cooker reaches and maintains a high enough temperature to neutralize lectins. 

However, for optimal safety and digestibility, soaking and boiling are advisable before slow-cooking beans to eliminate lectins and enhance their overall palatability.

Can I put raw bacon in slow cooker?

You can put raw bacon in a slow cooker. When using bacon in slow cooker recipes, it’s important to consider the cooking time and temperature to ensure that the bacon is cooked thoroughly. Depending on the recipe, you may want to cut the raw bacon into smaller pieces or lay it across the top of other ingredients. 

Keep in mind that bacon adds flavor, so its fat will infuse into the dish during the slow-cooking process. Adjust cooking times accordingly to achieve the desired texture and taste in your slow cooker recipe.

Why are my beans still hard after slow cooking?

If your beans are still hard after slow cooking, there are a few common reasons for this issue:

Insufficient Soaking

Beans often require soaking before slow cooking to reduce cooking time and improve texture. If you didn’t soak the beans overnight or for the recommended time, they might remain hard even after slow cooking.

Old Beans

The age of the beans can affect their cooking time. Older beans may take longer to soften. Always use fresh beans for the best results.

Hard Water

The mineral content of hard water can interfere with the softening process of beans. If you have hard water, consider using filtered or distilled water when cooking beans.

Acidic Ingredients

Acidic ingredients like tomatoes can hinder the softening of beans. If you’re using tomatoes or other acidic ingredients, try adding them later in the cooking process.

Salt

Adding salt too early in the cooking process can toughen the bean skins. Salt is best added towards the end of the cooking time.

Cooking Temperature

Ensure that your slow cooker reaches and maintains a high enough temperature to cook the beans thoroughly. Cooking on a low setting for a longer time is often better for beans.

To remedy the situation, you can try cooking the beans for a longer period on a higher heat setting, adding more liquid if necessary. Additionally, consider soaking the beans for an extended period of time before cooking. If the beans are still hard, it might be necessary to transfer them to a stovetop and simmer until they reach the desired tenderness.

What are the ingredients to make Slow Cooker Baked Beans with Bacon?

This recipe can be prepared in 10 minutes with additional 10 to 15 minutes to brown the bacon. The cooking time is 4 hours if you prefer high heat or 8 hours on low heat.

Here are the ingredients you’re going to need for 6 to 8 servings.

• Thick-cut bacon: This smoky, savory superstar adds irresistible flavor and a delightful crunch to the dish
• Sweet onion: Lends a subtle yet aromatic sweetness to the recipe.
• Sea salt and black pepper: These pantry staples are essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the dish. 
• Red kidney beans, dark red kidney beans, great northern beans, and black beans: They provide a hearty texture and earthy taste, making each spoonful a delight.
• Tomato paste: Adds a rich and tangy element, creating a vibrant base.
• Sugar-free Dijon mustard: This zesty condiment brings a tangy kick and a hint of complexity.
• Gluten-free liquid smoke: Gives a smoky flavor without the need for an actual smoker. 
• Real maple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of caramel-like richness. 
• Chicken broth: It keeps everything moist and ensures a luscious texture.

How to make Slow Cooker Baked Beans with Bacon?

It’s time to put this recipe together now that you’ve gathered all of your ingredients.

1. First, add the chopped bacon and onion to a large skillet. Season it with salt and black pepper according to your taste, and cook it over medium heat until the bacon starts to get crispy and the onion is soft, for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. 
2. After that, remove the skillet from the heat and carefully drain any excess grease, then set it aside. 
3. Next, add the beans, bacon, and onion to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker crock. Top it with the tomato paste, Dijon mustard, liquid smoke, maple syrup, and chicken broth, and stir to combine. 
4. Cover and cook it on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours. Remove the lid and stir to combine. Lastly, taste and season it with additional salt and black pepper, if  you desire, before serving. Enjoy! 

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