Crock Pot Navy Beans
Creamy, savory navy beans cooked slowly with smoky ham hock, molasses, and spices, creating a hearty dish perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak navy beans in 4 cups water in the refrigerator for 8 to 24 hours. Drain, rinse, and put into the crock pot.
- Mix chopped onion, catsup, salt, brown sugar, dry mustard, and molasses with 1 cup water.
- Pour the mixture over the beans in the crock pot, and stir to coat the beans evenly.
- Press the smoked ham hock down into the beans.
- Cover and cook on low for 10 to 12 hours until the beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bacon or sautéed garlic to the beans before cooking. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the smoked ham hock with a few drops of liquid smoke and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also swap navy beans for pinto or great northern beans if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These navy beans make a hearty main dish but also pair well with a side of cornbread or over rice for a complete meal. Consider serving with a fresh Green Salad With Mandarin Oranges for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped parsley can enhance the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place the beans in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock Pot Navy Beans contains roughly 291 calories, with 0g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of potassium (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1323mg per serving (58% 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 canned navy beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned navy beans as a shortcut. If using, drain and rinse the beans, then reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low since they are already cooked. Adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the mixture. You can also serve the finished dish with hot sauce on the side, allowing everyone to adjust the spiciness to their liking.
What can I serve with these navy beans?
These beans pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside grilled meats, a fresh salad, or even crusty bread. They also work great as a filling for burritos or tacos, combining nicely with rice and fresh veggies.
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).