5-6 Bean Crock-Pot
A hearty, flavorful bean casserole cooked slowly in a crock-pot, combining multiple beans, seasoned with chili mix and tomato sauce for a comforting meal perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat and transfer the browned hamburger to the crock-pot.
- Add pinto beans, navy beans, butter beans, pork and beans, and kidney beans to the crock-pot.
- Pour in the tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle the chili mix over the ingredients.
- Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions, bell peppers, or garlic when browning the hamburger. You can also substitute the hamburger with ground turkey for a lower-fat option. If you prefer a spicy kick, include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This dish is a great base to explore variations, similar to the Awesome Corn Chowder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty bean crock-pot dish with cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For a complete experience, consider complementing it with Mary'S Meat Loaf for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If it's too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5-6 Bean Crock-Pot contains roughly 1796 calories, with 52g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 117g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (156% of the Daily Value), protein (105% of the Daily Value), and iron (88% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2276mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you will need to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Dried beans require about 6-8 hours in the crock-pot, depending on the type. Make sure to cook them until they're tender before adding them to the mixture.
What can I serve with this dish?
This bean crock-pot dish pairs well with various sides such as cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad. You might also enjoy it with tortilla chips for a fun twist. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside the Low-Fat Turkey And Baked Beans.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the hamburger and consider adding more beans or vegetables like zucchini or carrots. You can also include plant-based protein alternatives such as lentils or textured vegetable protein for added texture and nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).