Hearty Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef Recipe

Slow cooker pinto beans sparkle with southwestern charm in this hearty meat-packed dish.

Mexican culinary traditions deeply influence these robust flavors.

Rich beef and green chile create a symphony of taste that warms your soul.

Tender beans absorb incredible depth from slow simmering spices and herbs.

Minimal preparation means maximum enjoyment for busy home cooks seeking comfort food.

Authentic ingredients combine effortlessly to deliver a meal that feels like a culinary embrace.

Each bite promises a delicious journey through southwestern comfort that you won’t want to miss.

Tips for Texture, Spice, and Depth of Flavor

• Optimize Beef Browning: Use high-quality ground beef with 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for maximum flavor and juiciness during initial sautéing process.
• Liquid Level Matters: Ensure beans are completely submerged in broth to prevent drying out and promote even cooking throughout the slow cooker.
• Spice Customization: Adjust chile and spice quantities based on personal heat tolerance, gradually increasing for those who enjoy bolder flavors.
• Bean Preparation Hack: Rinse dried pinto beans thoroughly and consider overnight soaking to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
• Freezer-Friendly Meal: Portion and freeze remaining beans in airtight containers for quick future meals, maintaining quality for up to three months.

Store and Heat Leftovers the Smart Way

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Transfer cooled beans to freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months, maintaining optimal taste and texture.
• Warm beans in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of beef broth to prevent drying. Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Place beans in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming.

What to Eat With This Hearty Bowl

• Crack open a crisp, light Mexican beer like Modelo Especial or Dos Equis to complement the rich, spicy flavors of the bean and beef dish.
• Dollop fresh sour cream on top to cut through the heat and add a creamy, tangy contrast to the robust bean mixture.
• Mix a classic margarita with fresh lime juice to brighten the hearty flavors and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the warm, spicy ingredients.
• Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the dish to add a bright, herbal note that lifts the overall depth and complexity of the slow-cooked meal.

Ideas for Adding Vegetables or More Heat

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef with plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or black beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a meat-free version that maintains rich, hearty flavors.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Ensure all spices and broths are certified gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free tortillas or over cauliflower rice to accommodate gluten-sensitive diners.
• Spicy Southwest Edition: Increase green chiles, add diced jalapeños, and incorporate chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Include a splash of tequila for extra depth and complexity in the flavor profile.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium beef broth, reduce added salt, and boost flavor with fresh herbs like oregano and thyme. Incorporate more green chiles and spices to maintain a robust taste without excess sodium.

Slow Cooker Pinto Bean & Beef FAQs

• What type of beans work best for this recipe?

Pinto beans are ideal for this dish due to their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors well. They’re traditional in southwestern and Mexican cuisine and hold up perfectly in slow cooking.

• Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, dried beans can be used. Just soak them overnight and rinse before adding to the slow cooker. This method might require slightly more liquid and cooking time compared to pre-cooked beans.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your beef broth and spices are certified gluten-free if you have severe sensitivities. Always check ingredient labels to confirm.

• How spicy will this dish be?

The green chiles and spices provide mild to moderate heat. If you prefer less spice, use mild green chiles or reduce the amount of chili powder. For more heat, add jalapeños or use hot green chiles.

Why This Slow Cooker Beef and Bean Combo Works

• Tackle busy weeknights with this hands-off slow cooker recipe that requires minimal active cooking time and delivers maximum flavor without constant monitoring.
• Spend just 15 minutes prepping ingredients in the morning, then let the slow cooker work its magic, transforming simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying meal ready when you return home.
• Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this protein-packed dish adapts easily to different serving styles and accommodates various dietary preferences with simple modifications.
• Leverage affordable ingredients like pinto beans and ground beef to create a nutritious, filling meal that stretches your grocery budget while delivering robust southwestern-inspired flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Comfort Dish

• Ground Beef: Rich meaty base that adds depth and hearty texture to the dish.
• Stew Beef: Alternative protein option with robust beef flavor.

• Pinto Beans: Creamy, classic southwestern bean that provides substantial protein and earthy taste.

• Onion, Garlic: Essential flavor builders that create a savory foundation for the recipe.

• Green Chiles: Adds mild heat and bright southwestern flavor, choose fresh or canned.
• Cumin: Warm, earthy spice quintessential in southwestern cooking.
• Chili Powder: Complex spice blend that provides depth and mild heat.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds smoky undertone and rich color to the dish.

• Beef Broth: Provides moisture and additional beef flavor, water can be substituted.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings for balancing and enhancing overall taste.

• Cilantro, Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream: Fresh toppings that add extra layers of flavor and texture.
• Tortillas, Rice, Cornbread: Traditional accompaniments that complement the main dish.

How to Cook Everything Low and Slow to Perfection

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium flame. Crumble the ground beef into the pan, breaking it into small pieces while cooking. If using stew beef, sear the cubes until golden brown on all sides.

• Ground beef or stew beef cubes
• Chopped onion
• Minced garlic

Cook until onions become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Move the browned beef mixture into the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and create a flavorful base.

• Rinsed pinto beans
• Green chiles
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 3: Add Liquid and Mix

Pour beef broth or water into the slow cooker. Stir everything thoroughly, making sure beans are completely submerged in liquid.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and set to low temperature. Allow the beans to simmer and develop rich flavors for 6-8 hours. For quicker preparation, use high setting for 4-5 hours until beans become tender and beef is fully cooked.

Step 5: Season and Taste

Check the seasoning after cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, or spices to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Warm tortillas
• Steamed rice
• Cornbread

• Fresh cilantro
• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream

Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile And Beef Recipe

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4.6 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty slow cooker pinto beans with green chile and beef bring southwestern comfort to your dinner table. Robust flavors meld together, creating a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef

Beans and Vegetables:

• 2 cups (400 g) dried pinto beans, rinsed and sorted
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (4 oz / 113 g) can diced green chiles
• 1 (14.5 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Liquid:

• 4 cups (1 liter) beef or chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) water

Garnish:

• ¼ cup (10 g) chopped cilantro

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Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium flame and thoroughly brown the ground beef, ensuring a rich, caramelized exterior. Incorporate finely diced onions and crushed garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent and aromatic.
2. Carefully transfer the seasoned beef mixture into the slow cooker, creating a flavorful base layer. Gently fold in freshly rinsed pinto beans, vibrant green chiles, and a harmonious blend of cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour beef broth into the slow cooker, creating a luxurious liquid bath for the ingredients. Stir thoroughly, guaranteeing every bean and meat morsel is submerged and will absorb maximum flavor during cooking.
4. Secure the slow cooker lid and set to low temperature. Allow the mixture to simmer and meld for 6-8 hours, transforming the pinto beans into a tender, rich delicacy. For time-pressed cooks, high setting can expedite the process to 4-5 hours.
5. Upon completion, conduct a careful taste test. Calibrate seasonings by adding additional spices, salt, or pepper to elevate the dish’s overall complexity and depth.
6. Present the hearty creation alongside warm tortillas, fluffy rice, or golden cornbread. Enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile by garnishing with fresh cilantro, melted cheese, or a creamy sour cream dollop.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with lean turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter, heart-healthy version that reduces saturated fat and calories.
• Soak dried pinto beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility, cutting down potential gas-inducing effects.
• Use low-sodium beef broth or replace with vegetable broth to control salt intake, making the dish more kidney-friendly and diet-conscious.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or squeeze of lime juice at the end to brighten flavors and enhance the overall taste profile without adding extra calories.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 56 hours (high)
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg