You won't believe the flavor of these spicy pinto beans! Pinto beans and jalapenos cook together in the slow cooker and make a creamy and decadent side dish.
Rinse and drain the beans, discard any dirt clumps or rocks. Add to the slow cooker.
Add the onion, jalapenos, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, chicken broth and water to the slow cooker with the beans. Wait to add the salt.
Cover and cook on HIGH 6-7 hours. Do not open the lid while they cook, or they will not get tender.
When the cooking time is done mash about 1/4 of the beans with a potato masher right in the slow cooker. Or you can put a scoop in a bowl and mash with a fork and add back to the slow cooker. This will make the beans creamy, which the slow cooker can't do since the simmer is so low. Add salt to taste, I usually use 1/4 tsp.
Serve as a side dish or as a main with tortillas or cornbread. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
How can I make this less spicy?
Use half a jalapeno and remove the seeds
Use jarred jalapenos
or use canned diced fire-roasted chiles
Can I make refried beans?If you want smashed refried beans, simply remove most of the liquid (reserving some in a dish). Mash the beans with a potato masher or the back of a large spoon. Add some of the reserved liquid if too dry.Can I add meat to this recipe?
Cooked bacon - cook, drain, and crumble the bacon, though you can add some of the bacon grease for more flavor. Uncooked bacon is not flavorful in the slow cooker, it needs to be browned to get the caramelized flavor.
Ham hock - add one smoked ham hock at the beginning of the cooking time.
Diced ham - two cups of ham will work well in this recipe. You can use leftover ham if you have it.
Smoked meats- you can add diced smoked brisket or smoked turkey for a wonderful twist.
Can I use a 20-ounce package of Hurst's Hambeens Pinto Beans in this recipe?