Slow Cooker Baked Beans

Forget the pre-made baked beans in a can, you can make these Slow Cooker Baked Beans at home and run some errands while these simmer in your slow cooker or crockpot. Your weekend cookout just got that much easier, and even more delicious!

The Best Baked Beans

Summer cookouts will never be the same!

I was in the grocery store reaching for baked beans in the aisle. The one that has bacon bits that have been sitting in that can for who-knows-how-long and has an artificial sugary taste.

Buying a can is easy, but I knew there had to be a way where I can use ingredients I love and it could be just as timesaving. Surprise, there was!

Baked bean recipes can vary wildly based on the region where you are enjoying them. I personally like kidney beans in mine but some think this is a no-no.

Other recipes are very strict and only use great northern beans. I say, use what you love because it’s all about the sauce!

This easy baked beans recipe has the world’s easiest prep, and only three hours of cook time in the crockpot. Not only do you have three extra hours of time, but now you have savory baked beans that no one will be able to resist!

Perfect for that summer bbq, fourth of July picnic, or a lazy lunch on the weekend. Just like these calico beans or these southern baked beans.

Ingredients Needed

Pinto beans – No pinto beans? No problem! Substitute chickpeas, white beans, or even black beans.

Dark red kidney beans – If you don’t have dark red, light red or navy beans will do fine! These will bring the hearty flavor that pinto doesn’t. 

Ketchup – If you ran out of ketchup, reach for tomato paste or vinegar to replace the acidic aspect of ketchup.

Light brown sugar – Dark brown or light brown sugar work here!

Yellow mustard – Mustard is a “must” in this recipe— it’s a good thing I’m not a comedian. Brown or spicy mustard will add a good tang.

Apple cider vinegar – Apple cider vinegar can easily be replaced with typical white vinegar or rice vinegar.

Water – Just a single cup of water!

Worcestershire sauce – Worcestershire will give that smokey flavor we all love. If you don’t have it on hand, a kick mix of ketchup, vinegar, and soy sauce will replicate the flavor.

BBQ seasoning – Barbecue seasoning is essential to truly bring that cookout flavor in; you’d be surprised how much of a difference two tablespoons could make!

Bacon – Regular bacon or thick cut will work. Sub precooked if desired. Leave out all together or double up. You can never have too much bacon.

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How to Make Slow Cooker Baked Beans

First: In the slow cooker place beans, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, water, Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, and half of the cooked bacon. Stir to combine!

Second: Cook on low for three hours.

Third: Remove the lid and garnish with the remaining bacon. Serve warm and enjoy!

For the full recipe and detailed instructions, please see the recipe card at the end of this post.

How long do they last?

Store any leftovers in the fridge, in an airtight container, for up to 4 days. Be sure to completely cool them first.

Reheat in the microwave or on the stove top until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

I love to serve them alongside buttery cornbread muffins, green beans, fried corn, and a creamy coleslaw!

Of course baked beans are a delicious side dish, but they are much more than that! They are a topping on your next burger, or another layer to a bean dip.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

You certainly can! To hydrate the beans, soak for either four hours or overnight in a large bowl with cold water.

Give the soaked beans a quick drain and rinse before you’re ready to use them.

Can I make these vegetarian?

You sure can! Just leave out the bacon. Or you can substitute a plant based meat crumble instead.

Tips for No Leftovers

• Serve warm by keeping it in the crock or slow cooker and giving it a stir occasionally.
• Looking for some extra pizazz? Try adding smoked paprika or sautéed medium onion for a little kick!
• Store in an airtight container for up to four days! Freshen it up with a dash of brown sugar and a bit of mustard.
• To save prep time, cook the bacon in advance so it’s ready to go!
• Want even more flavor? Add chili powder, maple syrup, and some Dijon mustard.
• Large slow cooker? Double the recipe!
• Add cooked ground beef or even hot dogs to make a complete meat and beans dinner.
• Cook these in a dutch oven on the stove top if you prefer this over slow cooking.

If you love this recipe as much as I do, please write a five-star review in the comment section below (or on Pinterest with the “tried it” button – you can now add pictures into reviews, too!), and be sure to help me share on facebook!

Crockpot baked beans are so flavorful and a super easy recipe to make at home! Perfect for all those summer get togethers.

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