Slow Cooker Navy Beans: A Hearty, Nutritious, and Flavorful Southern Classic
When it comes to Southern comfort food, nothing beats a pot of slow-cooked navy beans. This simple yet flavorful dish has been a staple in many households for generations. Navy beans are not only delicious, but they’re also packed with nutrients, making them a great option for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, a side dish for a big family meal, or even a meal prep idea for busy days, this Slow Cooker Navy Beans recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Why Navy Beans Are a Nutritional Powerhouse
Navy beans are small, creamy white beans that are rich in protein and fiber. Just one serving of navy beans provides a significant amount of your daily fiber needs, which promotes a healthy digestive system. They are also an excellent source of plant-based protein, perfect for those looking to reduce their meat consumption. Navy beans are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals like iron, potassium, and folate, making them a great addition to a well-rounded diet.
Incorporating navy beans into your meals is an easy way to boost heart health, support stable blood sugar levels, and promote weight management. They are low in fat and calories, but packed with enough nutrients to keep you feeling full and energized throughout the day.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
This Slow Cooker Navy Beans recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound dry navy beans
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tbsp minced or fresh garlic
- 1 whole bell pepper, diced (choose your favorite color for a pop of color and flavor)
- A couple strips of crumbled bacon for topping (optional)
Instructions:
- Begin by soaking your dry navy beans overnight or for at least 8 hours to ensure they cook evenly and to reduce any digestive discomfort.
- Once soaked, drain and rinse the beans.
- Add the beans, basil, salt, black pepper, diced onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper to your slow cooker.
- Fill the slow cooker with enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches.
- Set your slow cooker on low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- If you’re adding bacon, cook and crumble a couple of strips, then sprinkle them on top before serving for a savory, smoky finish.
For a vegan or vegetarian version, simply leave off the bacon. The beans, veggies, and seasonings provide plenty of flavor on their own, making this dish both satisfying and adaptable for any dietary preference.
Perfect for Any Time of Day
One of the best things about slow cooker meals like this one is their versatility. While traditionally thought of as a dinner option, slow-cooked navy beans can easily be enjoyed any time of day. Here are a few ways to serve them:
- For Breakfast: Pair your navy beans with scrambled eggs and toast for a protein-packed, energizing breakfast.
- For Lunch: Serve a bowl of navy beans over rice or alongside a fresh salad for a filling midday meal.
- For Dinner: Enjoy navy beans as a main dish or a hearty side for meats like grilled chicken or pork chops. The rich, savory flavors are a perfect match for Southern-inspired dinners.
The Convenience of Slow Cooker Meals
Slow cooker meals are perfect for busy lifestyles. You can prep everything in the morning, set your slow cooker, and come home to a ready-to-eat, warm, and flavorful dish. Not only does it save time, but it also allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a healthy, nutritious, and delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for vegans, vegetarians, or meat-lovers, this Slow Cooker Navy Beans recipe is a versatile and wholesome option that everyone will love.
Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments! If you enjoyed this post, make sure to follow Sincere Scribbles for more Southern-inspired recipes, tips, and food stories.
Slow Cooker Navy Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb dry navy beans
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 onion diced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup diced bell pepper
- 3 strips cooked, crumbled bacon
Instructions
- First we need to rinse and drain our beans good to make sure there are no dirt, rocks, or stalks.
- Now pour the dry beans into a 6 quart slow cooker or crockpot and fill with water a few inches above the beans.
- Turn your cooker on low and get it started heating up.
- Now add your diced onions and bell peppers to the slow cooker.
- Next, add the salt, pepper, minced garlic, basil, and crumbled bacon to the pot.
- Cover it with the lid and let it cook on low for a full 12 hours.
- Give the beans a good stir every couple of hours and check the water level.
- You may need to add a cup of water here and there to keep it a few inches above the beans.
- After 12 hours has passed, check them for the right bean consistency to make sure they are fully cooked.
- Serve as a side dish or as a main dish with your favorite bread or crackers.
- To add these to your baked bean recipe, follow my link above for my Homemade Maple Bacon Baked Beans Recipe.
