Red beans and ham hocks in crock pot

Crock Pot Red Beans and Rice are an easy, inexpensive, healthy, filling dinner recipe. Great way to use leftover ham bone or ham hock in a whole new meal.

Red beans and ham hocks is a classic recipe that holds a special place in the hearts of many, particularly those with Southern roots. Cooking this scrumptious recipe in a crock pot elevates not only the flavor but also the convenience.

Growing up, many people fondly recall the rich, earthy aroma wafting through their home as these ingredients meld together. It's comfort recipe at its finest! Cooking red beans and ham hocks in a crock pot is not just a meal; it's an experience that can bring family and friends together around the dinner table. 

For other recipe , check my Best red beans and rice in new orleans recipe.

Benefits of Using a Crock Pot

Cooking with a crock pot makes life so easy at times. I love using my crock pot and these beans are slow cooked and deliciously flavored. All the hard work is done for you while freeing you up to be able to do other things! 

Making beans and ham in the crock pot before heading out the door, makes returning home and having your meal finished, ideal! the benefits of using crockpot : 

• Time-saving Cooking Method : When it comes to busy lifestyles, a crock pot emerges as the ultimate kitchen ally. Just set it and forget it!

• Simplified Meal Prep: Spend a mere 20 minutes tossing ingredients together in the morning, and return home to a fragrant, ready-to-eat meal.

• Hands-off Cooking: No need to hover over the stove; the slow cooker does the work while you tackle your day.

Crock pot recipes , especially those like red beans and rice, develop a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve through traditional methods. It's the reason why many families turn to their slow cookers for that comforting taste of home!

Ingredients needed for red beans recipe

This slow cooked beans and hamhocks recipe has so much flavor . The slow cooker and minimal ingredients makes this so easy! 

• 2 lb bag pinto beans
• 1 green bell pepper cut into ¾ inch pieces
• 1 ham hock
• 8 cups water
• 2 medium onions chopped

• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 Tbs ground cayenne red pepper
• 1 Tbs cumin
• Salt and pepper
• Rice (optional)

Using the right combination will turn a simple bean dish into a soul-warming experience that transports you to the heart of New Orleans. For other recipe , check my Recipe red beans and rice new orleans.

How to make crock pot red beans and rice?

Sort and rinse beans. Soak beans overnight in water. Drain water, rinse beans.Add beans, ham hock, bell pepper, onions, garlic, red pepper, cumin, pepper and water to crock pot. Add salt once beans are tender, adjusting salt as needed. Cook on high for 5-6 hours, low 8-9 hrs.

What do beans go well with?

Beans are super versatile! They pair well with lots of ingredients, depending on the dish you're making. Once your red beans and rice is ready, it’s time to savor the deliciousness! Here are some tips on how to serve this comforting dish. Here are a few ideas:

• Rice :Classic combo, like in burritos or chili.
• Tortillas :Beans and tortillas make a great base for tacos, quesadillas, or wraps.
• Vegetables: You can pair beans with roasted veggies like sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or spinach.

• Meats: Beans go well with chicken, pork, or beef in stews, chili, or tacos.
• Spices: Garlic, cumin, chili powder, or paprika can elevate the flavor of beans.
• Tomatoes :Beans and tomatoes make a great pairing in soups, stews, and salads.

This meal always reminds me of cozy family dinners, where everyone gathers to share stories and enjoy the warmth of home-cooked food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it ok to use canned beans? Yes, you can absolutely use canned beans instead of dried red beans! This is a great way to save time when making your dish. If you're making a dish like chili, soups, or salads, canned beans are a great option. Here are a few tips:

Rinse and Drain: Always rinse canned beans to reduce sodium levels and remove the canning liquid.Adjust Cooking Time: Since canned beans are already cooked, you only need to heat them through. Just add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

I remember my first time using canned beans when I was short on time; it made the cooking process so much simpler! here is my Canned red beans and rice recipe easy.

What is the best way to store beans long term? The best way to store beans for long-term is to keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from heat, moisture, and light. Consider these short- and long-term food storage tips for preserving beans:

• Use airtight containers: using airtight containers is one of the most effective ways to store beans for the long term. Airtight containers prevent moisture, air, and pests from getting in, which can help preserve the beans’ quality and prevent spoilage

• Keep them in a cool, dry place: The storage area should ideally be between 50–70°F (10–21°C). A basement or pantry works well as long as the temperature stays consistent.

• Consider vacuum sealing: You can vacuum seal storage bags for beans to remove any excess oxygen. Vacuum-sealed dried beans can last five years or longer.

• Avoid moisture: Moisture can lead to mold and spoilage. Be sure the beans are completely dry before storing them. You can even freeze the beans for a few days before storing them to kill any potential pests or eggs.

• Label containers: Mark containers with the date of storage to keep track of when you stored the beans. Most dried beans can last 10+ years when stored properly, though their quality may decline over time.

Beans with proper storage can last a very long time, but it's best to rotate and use them within 1-2 years for the best flavor and nutritional value.