Description
A hearty Southern dish of tender pinto beans, seasoned ground meat, and savory sausage slow-cooked to perfection. Packed with aromatic vegetables and warm spices for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Dried Pinto Beans (1 pound), soaked overnight in water
Ground Meat (e.g., lean beef or turkey) (1 pound), browned and drained
Sweet Onion (1 large), diced (Yellow or Vidalia recommended)
Green Bell Pepper (1 large), diced (Adds a fresh, slightly vegetal note)
CeleryRib (1), diced (Provides aromatic depth)
Garlic (3 cloves), minced (Fresh recommended)
Smoked Sausage (e.g., turkey or beef) (1 link), cooked and crumbled
Andouille Sausage (pork-based – substitute with turkey or beef) (1 link), cooked and crumbled
Bay Leaves (1 tablespoon)
Dried Cumin (1 teaspoon)
Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon)
Salt and Pepper to Taste
Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups) (No alcohol, select a pork-free and alcohol-free version)
Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon)
Chopped Fresh Cilantro or Parsley (for garnish)
Lime or Lemon Wedges for Serving (to accompany)
Instructions
Sort dried pinto beans, discard discolored beans, and rinse
In a skillet, brown ground meat until evenly cooked; drain excess fat
Cook sausages in a skillet until browned, then crumble into small pieces
In the crock pot, layer beans, browned meat, crumbled sausages, diced onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, bay leaves, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme
Pour broth over the mixture until fully covered
Cook on low for 8 hours
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Garnish with cilantro/parsley and serve with lime/lemon wedges
Notes
Soak beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility
Use turkey sausages for a leaner option
If using pre-seasoned meat or sausage, adjust salt accordingly
Pork-free sausages can be substituted with smoked turkey or beef
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 480
- Category: Trend Recipes
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern