• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Simply Low Cal
  • Low Calorie Recipes
    • Air Fryer
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Dessert
    • Main Dish
    • Dips, Dressings & Sauces
    • Drinks
    • Instant Pot
    • Recipe Roundups & Downloads
    • Salads
    • Side Dish
    • Slow Cooker
    • Soup
    • Snack
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • RSS
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes +
  • Easy Main Dishes
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes +
    • Easy Main Dishes
    • About
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    Home » Slow Cooker

    Low Calorie Slow Cooker Pinto Beans

    Published: May 20, 2019 · Modified: September 25, 2023 by Kate · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    456 shares
    • Share
    • Yum
    • Email
    Jump to Recipe
    Pinterest pin of low calorie pinto beans recipe.

    These Low Calorie Slow Cooker Pinto Beans are made with just a handful of simple ingredients and a slow cooker. You can enjoy tender and delicious pinto beans that are packed with flavor. Stovetop instructions included!

    Cooked pinto beans on a plate.
    Jump to:
    • Why You'll Love This Recipe
    • Ingredients You'll Need
    • Step-By-Step Instructions
    • Turn Pinto Beans Into Refried Beans
    • Expert Tips
    • Variations
    • Stovetop Pinto Beans
    • Storing & Freezing
    • Recipe FAQ's
    • More Slow Cooker Recipes You'll Love
    • Low Calorie Slow Cooker Pinto Beans
    • #respond

    Check out my Low Calorie Chicken Stock and my Low Calorie Chicken Stew for more delicious slow cooker recipes!

    Low calorie slow cooker pinto beans are a staple in many kitchens, and this recipe is a great way to prepare them.

    The slow-cooking method allows the beans to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the seasonings, resulting in tender and delicious beans.

    Pinto beans on a plate in front of the Crock Pot.

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    • With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, this recipe is a breeze to prepare.
    • The combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in this recipe creates a delicious flavor.
    • Pinto beans are an affordable ingredient that is widely available, making this recipe a great option for those on a tight budget.
    • Pinto beans are a nutritious ingredient that is high in fiber, protein, and iron. This makes this recipe a great option for those looking to add more healthy ingredients to their diet.

    Ingredients You'll Need

    Labeled ingredients for the pinto beans.
    • Dry Pinto Beans: A nutritious ingredient that is high in fiber, protein, and iron.
    • Water:
    • Salt: Used to enhance the flavor.
    • Black Pepper: It pairs well with the other seasonings and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
    • Garlic Powder: Adds depth and richness.
    • Onion Powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and complements the other seasonings.

    Step-By-Step Instructions

    Steps to make the pinto beans.

    Step 1: Rinse the pinto beans and pick out any small stones or debris. Place the pinto beans in a large Crock Pot.

    Step 2: Add the water, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the Crock Pot. Stir to combine.

    Step 3: Cover and cook on low heat for 8 hours, or until the beans are tender. Check the beans every hour or so to make sure there is enough liquid and to stir.

    Step 4: Once the beans are tender, taste for seasoning and add more salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder if needed. 

    NOTE: You can print the FULL recipe with all ingredients & detailed instructions below!

    Pinto beans on a white plate.

    Turn Pinto Beans Into Refried Beans

    1. Once the pinto beans are fully cooked, drain any excess liquid.
    2. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the pinto beans in the slow cooker. You can mash them as finely or as coarsely as you like, depending on your preference.
    3. Add salt and pepper to taste, and any other seasonings you like, such as garlic powder, cumin, or chili powder. Stir the seasonings into the mashed beans until they are evenly distributed.

    Expert Tips

    • Before adding the beans to the slow cooker, make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
    • Make sure to add enough water to the slow cooker so that the beans are fully covered. This will help to prevent the beans from burning and ensure even cooking.
    • The slow-cooking method is key to tender and delicious pinto beans. Cook the beans on low heat for 6-8 hours or until they are tender and fully cooked.

    Variations

    • Spicy: For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a can of diced green chilies to the slow cooker along with the beans and seasonings. You can also add chili powder or cumin for an extra kick of flavor.
    • Mexican: Add diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and cilantro to the low cooker along with the beans and seasonings.
    • Herbed: Add chopped fresh cilantro, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves to the slow cooker along with the beans and seasonings.

    Stovetop Pinto Beans

    1. Start by rinsing the dry pinto beans under cold water. Also, be sure to pick out any small stones or debris that may be present in the beans.
    2. Soaking the beans overnight can help reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. To soak the beans, place them in a large bowl and cover them with water. Allow them to soak for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.
    3. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot (such as a Dutch oven), combine the rinsed pinto beans, 7 cups of water, 2 teaspoons of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
    4. Place the pot on the stovetop over high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil.
    5. Once the beans come to a boil, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid but leave it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
    6. Allow the beans to simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until they are tender. Be sure to check the beans occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep them submerged.
    7. When the beans are tender, taste them to check for seasoning. Depending on your preference, you can add more salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder to adjust the flavor to your liking.

    Storing & Freezing

    Storing: Once the pinto beans have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. Reheat the beans in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

    Freezing: Let the pinto beans cool to room temperature, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a freezer safe plastic bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To defrost, place the container in the refrigerator overnight, or microwave the beans until they are fully thawed and heated through.

    Note: Avoid freezing the pinto beans in their broth, as the broth may become watery when thawed. Instead, freeze the beans separately and add broth or water when reheating.

    Recipe FAQ's

    How much water do I need to add to the slow cooker?

    You should add enough water to the slow cooker so that the beans are fully covered. A general rule of thumb is to add 4 cups of water for every 1 cup of dry pinto beans.

    Can I add other vegetables to the slow cooker?

    Yes, you can add other vegetables to the slow cooker along with the pinto beans. Diced carrots, celery, onions, and bell peppers are all good options.

    What should I do if the pinto beans are too hard?

    If the pinto beans are too hard, continue cooking them on low heat for an additional hour or two. You can also add a bit more water to the slow cooker to help soften the beans.

    More Slow Cooker Recipes You'll Love

    • Thumbnail of low calorie pulled chicken.
      Low Calorie Slow Cooker Pulled Chicken
    • Thumbnail of low calorie sweet and sour chicken.
      Low Calorie Slow Cooker Sweet And Sour Chicken
    • Thumbnail of slow cooker bbq chicken drumsticks.
      Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
    • Thumbnail of low calorie beef stew.
      Low Calorie Slow Cooker Beef Stew

    If you love this recipe, please leave a comment with a five-star rating — or simply hit the five-star button in the recipe card. Don't forget to signup for my newsletter!

    Thumbnail of low calorie pinto beans recipe.

    Low Calorie Slow Cooker Pinto Beans

    5 from 26 votes
    By Kate
    These low calorie slow cooker pinto beans is the perfect solution for a comforting meal. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy tender and delicious pinto beans that are packed with flavor.
    Pin Recipe Print Recipe Save RecipeSaved!
    Prep 10 minutes mins
    Cook 8 hours hrs
    Total 8 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
    Servings 12 Servings
    Calories 99kcal
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Special Equipment

    • Crock-Pot Slow Cooker
    • Measuring Spoons and Cups
    • Slotted Spoon

    Ingredients
     
     

    • 1 pound dry pinto beans
    • 7 cups water
    • 2 teaspoons salt
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions
     

    • Rinse the pinto beans and pick out any small stones or debris. Place the pinto beans in a large Crock Pot.
    • Add the water, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the Crock Pot. Stir to combine.
    • Cover and cook on low heat for 8 hours, or until the beans are tender. Check the beans every hour or so to make sure there is enough liquid and to stir.
    • Once the beans are tender, taste for seasoning and add more salt, pepper, garlic powder, or onion powder if needed. 

    Notes

    • Before adding the beans to the crock pot, make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
    • Make sure to add enough water to the Crock Pot so that the beans are fully covered. This will help to prevent the beans from burning and ensure even cooking.
    • The slow-cooking method is key to tender and delicious pinto beans. Cook the beans on low heat for 6-8 hours or until they are tender and fully cooked.
    • Storing: Once the pinto beans have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. Reheat the beans in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
    • Freezing: Let the pinto beans cool to room temperature, then transfer them to a freezer safe container or a freezer safe plastic bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To defrost, place the container in the refrigerator overnight, or microwave the beans until they are fully thawed and heated through.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 99kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 8gSodium: 450mgFiber: 5gSugar: 1g

    All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content will vary with brands used, measuring methods, portion sizes and more.

    Tried this recipe?Give it a star rating and leave a comment below!

    More Slow Cooker

    • Thumbnail of slow cooker sour cream pork chops.
      Slow Cooker Sour Cream Pork Chops
    • Thumbnail of slow cooker chicken tinga.
      Slow Cooker Chicken Tinga
    • Thumbnail of Crockpot Mississippi chicken.
      Crockpot Mississippi Chicken
    • Thumbnail of low calorie chicken stew.
      Low Calorie Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
    456 shares
    • Share
    • Yum
    • Email

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Mimi

      May 29, 2019 at 12:54 am

      It is officially time to shine - we are having a beans party-competition coming up, and with this recipe I have no doubts I am going to win!

      Reply
    2. Maman de sara

      May 28, 2019 at 2:17 pm

      Your recipe is very easy and healthy. I can’t wait to try it!

      Reply
    3. Renu

      May 27, 2019 at 10:16 am

      Love this Low fat version of pinto beans and that too in a crock pot . A wonderful and a hassle free meal idea.

      Reply
    4. katie

      May 26, 2019 at 8:47 am

      I never thought about making a big batch of beans in my slow cooker, what a great idea!

      Katie xoxo

      Reply
    5. Jacqueline Debono

      May 25, 2019 at 3:47 pm

      I love the idea of cooking these beans and then using some for refried beans and the rest for another dish! Cook once eat twice is my motto!

      Reply
    6. Jere Cassidy

      May 25, 2019 at 1:23 am

      I've had little success in cooking dried beans. Thanks for this share to use the crock pot, Plus your beans look delicious.

      Reply
    7. Tynia

      May 23, 2019 at 11:58 pm

      I really do love pinto beans for burritos or just to eat with white rice. I like that these are low calories too!

      Reply
    8. Lydia Smith

      May 23, 2019 at 10:57 pm

      I'm not a fan of beans but oh my, it looks like a new kind of beans and I've been cheated all my life. Plus, it's pretentious yet low has low calorie. I'm rethinking my #nobeans stance.

      Reply
    9. Jenni LeBaron

      May 23, 2019 at 5:08 pm

      I love a good pot of beans because they are so versatile and can really help stretch a grocery budget in a super filling way. I love that I can just throw these in the crockpot and be on my way to a fantastic dinner!

      Reply
    10. Kelly Anthony

      May 22, 2019 at 5:35 pm

      How easy are these crockpot pinto beans! I'm excited to try your quick and easy recipe.

      Reply
    11. Stine Mari

      May 22, 2019 at 1:00 pm

      I love beans, they are incredibly versatile and can sub meat in many cases. I love these two ways, especially the refried beans - so delicious!

      Reply
    12. Ramona

      May 22, 2019 at 10:29 am

      Beans always get 5 stars from me, what a great recipe! I used to soak the beans like you say over night but lately I cook them straight away after rinsing them in my pressure cooker, The time slashes considerably.

      Reply
    13. Debbie

      May 22, 2019 at 2:56 am

      I love your low calorie version of this classic dish. Also cooking them in the crock pot is genius!!

      Reply
    5 from 26 votes (14 ratings without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    Pinterest pin of low calorie pinto beans recipe.
    Headshot of Kate the blog owner

    Hi and welcome! Simply Low Cal is the blog about DELICIOUS low calorie recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, and snacks that anyone can make. You will find plenty of healthy recipes for anyone. About Me

    POPULAR RECIPES

    • Thumbnail of low calorie banana bread.
      Low Calorie Banana Bread
    • Thumbnail of low calorie chicken noodle soup.
      Low Calorie Chicken Noodle Soup
    • Thumbnail of healthy snow cone syrup.
      Healthy Snow Cone Syrup
    • Thumbnail of 100 calorie blueberry muffins.
      100 Calorie Blueberry Muffins
    • Thumbnail of low calorie protein shake.
      Low Calorie Protein Shake
    • Thumbnail of PBfit soft gluten free cookies.
      PBfit Soft Gluten Free Peanut Butter Cookies

    THE BEST OF WINTER

    • Thumbnail of low calorie hot chocolate.
      Low Calorie Instant Pot Hot Chocolate
    • Thumbnail of low calorie pecan pie.
      Low Calorie Pecan Pie
    • Thumbnail of low calorie gingerbread latte.
      Low Calorie Gingerbread Latte
    • Thumbnail of low calorie mashed cauliflower.
      Low Calorie Mashed Cauliflower
    • Thumbnail of low calorie snickerdoodle latte.
      Low Calorie Snickerdoodle Latte
    • Thumbnail of low calorie broccoli cheddar soup.
      Low Calorie Broccoli Cheddar Soup

    FEATURED IN

    as seen in.

    Footer

    Pinterest pin of low calorie pinto beans recipe.

    ↑ back to top

    Featured In

    as seen in banner.

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Work With Me
    • Accessibility

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! For emails and updates

    Contact

    • [email protected]

    AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE I EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES.

    © 2025 SIMPLY LOW CAL | MAMA IS WORKING LLC

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.