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! It’s perfect for busy days or special gatherings when you need a filling and satisfying dish. The rich blend of spices and tender beef comes together effortlessly in your slow cooker, making it an easy go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it while your meal cooks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef, pinto beans, and green chiles creates a deliciously robust taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a stew, over rice, or with cornbread – the possibilities are endless!
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for quick meals throughout the week.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and lean beef, this recipe is both filling and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having these essential kitchen items will make preparing your Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef effortless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while developing rich flavors over time.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning meat and sautéing onions to enhance flavor before slow cooking.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for safely prepping ingredients like onion and herbs.

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced

For the Beans and Broth

• 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

Garnish (Optional)

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

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

Step 1: Brown the Beef

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Add the following to your slow cooker:
– The cooked ground beef and onion mixture.
– Stir in pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, diced green chilies, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Step 3: Season and Stir

Mix everything well:
1. Taste your mixture once combined.
2. Add salt according to your preference.

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 distribute flavors.

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving

Before serving:
1. Stir in fresh cilantro if desired for added freshness.
2. Serve hot with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips.

Step 6: Optional Additions

Consider adding:
– Diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.

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

Step 7: Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container:
– Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
– Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to enjoy again.

This Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!

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

Serving Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides and toppings, making it an excellent choice for family meals or gatherings.

With Cornbread

• Classic Pairing: Cornbread complements the flavors of the beans and beef beautifully, adding a sweet touch.

Over Rice

• Hearty Base: Serving the mixture over rice provides a satisfying base that absorbs all the delicious juices.

With Tortilla Chips

• Crunchy Delight: Scoop up the pinto beans with tortilla chips for a fun and crunchy appetizer or snack.

Topped with Fresh Avocado

• Creamy Addition: Diced avocado adds creaminess and a fresh flavor that balances the spiciness of the dish.

With Shredded Cheese

• Melty Goodness: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top enhances richness and melts into the warm dish.

With Sour Cream

• Tangy Finish: A dollop of sour cream offers a creamy contrast to the spices in the stew.

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

To ensure your Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor; opt for fresh onions and garlic when possible.
• Brown Meat Thoroughly: Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth to the flavor profile.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste; add more chili powder for heat or cumin for earthiness.
• Stir Occasionally: If possible, stir occasionally during cooking to evenly distribute flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit after cooking helps meld flavors together before serving.

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. Here are some great options:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices complements the stew well.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds freshness; serve it as a dip alongside tortilla chips.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the beef.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies bring a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with this dish.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful crunch when served alongside.
6. Refried Beans: For bean lovers, refried beans add another layer of flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef can be a delicious dish, but it’s important to avoid some common errors to ensure the best results.

• Bold Ingredients: Using canned beans without rinsing can lead to a salty dish. Always drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium levels.
• Bold Overcooking: Cooking on high for too long can make the beef tough. Stick to low heat for a tender texture.
• Bold Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning adequately can result in bland flavors. Taste your mixture before cooking and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Bold Ignoring Consistency: Adding too much broth can make the dish soupy. Use only the recommended amount for a thicker stew.
• Bold Forgetting Extras: Neglecting optional ingredients like cilantro or jalapeños can lessen flavor complexity. Add them for an extra flavor boost!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for the best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between sessions for even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

You can add more chili powder or include fresh jalapeños during cooking for extra heat.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter version of Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef.

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

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

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef?

This dish goes well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips. Consider topping it with avocado or sour cream!

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef is not only hearty but also versatile! You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Try this recipe today for a comforting meal that satisfies!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile and Beef

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, Slow Cooker Pinto Beans, Green Chile, and Beef is the perfect comfort meal for any occasion. This easy-to-follow recipe combines tender ground beef and creamy pinto beans with zesty green chiles, creating a satisfying dish that requires minimal effort. Simply brown your beef, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Whether served over rice, alongside cornbread, or scooped up with tortilla chips, this nutritious meal is sure to please both family and guests alike. Plus, it stores well for easy meal prep throughout the week.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups cooked pinto beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 can diced green chiles
• 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 cooked through. Drain excess fat.
2. Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chiles, diced green chiles, beef broth, and spices. Mix well.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
4. Stir in fresh cilantro before serving if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg