Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

Warm, hearty, and packed with bold flavors, this Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef is the ultimate comfort meal! Perfect for busy days when you need a filling and satisfying dish. This recipe brings together the rich taste of beef with the creamy texture of pinto beans and the zest of green chiles, making it suitable for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep work and just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the magic.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of spices, tomatoes, and beef ensures a deeply satisfying flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips, providing flexibility for any meal occasion.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy this dish throughout the week.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add extra vegetables or swap out ground beef for chicken or turkey to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having these on hand makes preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is crucial for allowing all the flavors to meld together slowly over hours, resulting in tender meat and perfectly cooked beans.
• Skillet: Browning the meat in a skillet enhances flavors before adding it to the slow cooker.
• Cutting board & Knife: These are essential for prepping your onions and any other fresh ingredients quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Meat Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced

For the Bean Mixture

• 4 cups cooked pinto beans (or 2 cans, 15 oz each, drained and rinsed)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 2 cups beef broth

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Optional Garnish

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

How to Make Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is cooked through and the onion is softened.
2. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Add the cooked ground beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker:
– Stir in the pinto beans.
– Add diced tomatoes with green chilies.
– Mix in diced green chilies and pour in beef broth.

Step 3: Season and Stir

Mix everything well:
– Taste your mixture before adding salt; adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Cook the Dish

Cover your slow cooker:
– Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
– Stir occasionally if possible to combine flavors.

Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs Before Serving

Before serving:
– Stir in fresh cilantro if desired for added freshness.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Serve hot alongside cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips:
– Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for a richer flavor profile.

Step 7: Optional Additions

For extra flavor:
– Consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños during cooking.

Step 8: Lighter Alternatives

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

Step 9: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers:
– Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat as needed in the microwave or stovetop.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

Serving Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef can elevate your meal experience. This hearty dish pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings that enhance its flavors.

With Cornbread

• Warm Cornbread – The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory flavors of the beans and beef, making it a classic pairing.

Over Rice

• Fluffy White or Brown Rice – Serving the pinto beans and beef mixture over rice creates a filling meal that’s easy to enjoy.

With Tortilla Chips

• Crispy Tortilla Chips – For a fun twist, serve with tortilla chips for dipping. It adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the beans.

Topped with Avocado

• Creamy Avocado Slices – Fresh avocado slices or guacamole can add creaminess and richness to each bite.

With Sour Cream

• Dollop of Sour Cream – A spoonful of sour cream adds tanginess and balances the heat from the green chiles.

Garnished with Cilantro

• Fresh Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness that enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

To get the most out of your Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef dish, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and spices will significantly enhance the taste of your dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Add more chili powder or diced jalapeños if you prefer extra heat.
• Let It Rest – After cooking, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Meats – Switch up ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without compromising flavor.
• Add More Veggies – Include diced bell peppers or zucchini to boost nutrition and add variety.
• Layer Ingredients Properly – Place denser ingredients like meat at the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice – Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this rice is a perfect complement to your main dish.
2. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies grilled until tender provide added nutrition and flavor contrast.
3. Cole Slaw – A fresh coleslaw adds crunchiness and tanginess to balance the richness of the beans.
4. Quesadillas – Cheese-filled quesadillas make for a delicious side that everyone will love.
5. Guacamole – This creamy dip made from avocados adds richness and works wonderfully as a topping too.
6. Pico de Gallo – Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice brings brightness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a perfect dish every time.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the ground beef and onions can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always brown your meat and onions first for a richer taste.
• Using Unseasoned Beans: If you use plain canned beans without seasoning, the dish may taste bland. Make sure to season your pinto beans well with spices during cooking for full flavor.
• Overloading Ingredients: Adding too many extra ingredients can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts to maintain balance and harmony in flavors.
• Cooking on High Too Long: Cooking on high for longer than recommended can lead to mushy beans. Follow suggested cooking times carefully to achieve the right texture.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Forgetting fresh herbs can make your dish taste one-dimensional. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! You can substitute pinto beans with black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor profile while keeping the same cooking method.

How do I make Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef spicier?

To increase spiciness, add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños when combining ingredients in the slow cooker.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative while still providing great flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef is not just a hearty meal—it’s also incredibly versatile! Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. This dish is perfect for any day of the week when you’re craving comfort food that’s easy to prepare. Give it a try!

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Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Warm and inviting, Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. This hearty recipe combines ground beef with creamy pinto beans and zesty green chiles, creating a comforting meal that’s packed with bold flavors. With minimal preparation, just set your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Whether served with cornbread, over rice, or alongside crispy tortilla chips, this dish offers versatile serving options that everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cups cooked pinto beans (or 2 cans, drained)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Stir in pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chiles, and beef broth.
3. Season to taste with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Before serving, stir in fresh cilantro if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg