A hearty slow cooker recipe is a family favorite that brings out rich, smoky flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy weeknight, it’s sure to become a go-to side dish everyone will love.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time9 hr
Total Time9 hr 10 min
Difficulty
Hard
Helpful Cooking Tips
Soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent beans from sticking to the slow cooker.
Adjust sweetness and spice levels to your taste by adding more brown sugar or chili powder.
Ingredients
0/8
Why You'll Want This Again
This recipe is a comforting classic that’s full of rich, smoky flavors. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days since the slow cooker does most of the work. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth to any meal.
Step 1
Soak the navy beans in a large bowl, covering them with a few inches of cool water. Let them sit for at least 8 hours or overnight. Once soaked, drain the beans and transfer them to a pot. Add enough fresh water to cover the beans, then bring it to a boil. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the beans simmer gently for about an hour, or until they’re just starting to get tender.
Step 2
While the beans are cooking, mix together the molasses, brown sugar, salt, mustard, pepper, and 4 cups of water in a bowl until everything is well combined.
Step 3
Toss the cooked beans, salt pork, and chopped onion into your slow cooker. Pour the molasses mixture over the top, and add a bit more water if the beans aren’t fully covered. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together.
Step 4
Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 8 to 10 hours. The beans will soak up all those flavors and become wonderfully tender. Enjoy!
80
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
How To Enjoy This Dish
These beans go great alongside grilled meats, cornbread, or a fresh green salad. They also make a tasty topping for baked potatoes or can be served as a hearty side at barbecues and family gatherings.
Storage Advice
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried navy beans?
You can, but cooking time will be much shorter. Add canned beans in the last hour of slow cooking to avoid overcooking.
Do I need to soak the beans overnight?
Yes, soaking helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time, resulting in better texture.
What can I substitute for salt pork?
You can use bacon or smoked ham for a similar smoky flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, omit the salt pork and consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor.
How thick will the beans be after cooking?
They should be thick and saucy but not dry; you can add more water during cooking if needed.
Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to about 4-5 hours and check for tenderness.
How should I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze these baked beans?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
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