How Long Do You Cook Beans In A Slow Cooker

You can cook beans in a slow cooker for anywhere from 3 to 8 hours depending on the type of bean, whether you soaked them first, and how soft you like them.
 
If you’ve been wondering how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker, the short answer is that most beans take 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high.
 
The key is knowing your bean type and planning ahead because some beans cook much faster than others.
 
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how long you cook beans in a slow cooker for each common variety, plus tips to get them perfectly tender every time.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

How Long Do You Cook Beans in a Slow Cooker by Type

The time it takes to cook beans in a slow cooker varies widely based on the bean you’re using.
 
Here’s a breakdown so you know exactly how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker for each type.
 

1. Black Beans

Black beans usually take about 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high.
 
If you soaked them overnight, you can shave off an hour or so, bringing it closer to 5 to 6 hours on low.
 
They’re forgiving, so if you cook beans in a slow cooker a little longer, they’ll just get creamier.
 

2. Pinto Beans

Pinto beans take roughly 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high.
 
These are one of the most popular beans to cook in a slow cooker because they hold their shape well and turn beautifully soft.
 
If you’re asking how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker for pinto beans specifically, aim for the 7-hour mark on low for perfect results.
 

3. Kidney Beans

Kidney beans need about 7 to 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high.
 
They’re larger and denser, so they take a bit more time than black beans.
 
Always boil kidney beans for at least 10 minutes before adding them to your slow cooker because raw kidney beans contain a toxin that can make you sick.
 

4. Navy Beans and Great Northern Beans

These smaller white beans cook faster, usually in 5 to 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high.
 
If you cook beans in a slow cooker like navy beans without soaking, add an extra hour.
 

5. Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)

Chickpeas are the toughest of the bunch and can take 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high.
 
They really benefit from an overnight soak, so if you’re planning how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker for chickpeas, soak them first and then cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours.
 

Factors That Affect How Long You Cook Beans in a Slow Cooker

Several things can change your cooking time, so keep these in mind.
 

1. Soaking vs. Not Soaking

Soaked beans cook faster, usually 1 to 2 hours less than unsoaked beans.
 
If you didn’t soak, no problem, you just cook beans in a slow cooker for a longer stretch.
 

2. Your Slow Cooker’s Temperature

Every slow cooker runs a little differently, so your “low” might be hotter or cooler than someone else’s.
 
That’s why it’s smart to check your beans at the earliest suggested time and go from there.
 

3. Altitude and Water Hardness

If you live at high altitude or have hard water, beans take longer to soften.
 
In those cases, you might cook beans in a slow cooker for an extra hour or two beyond the standard time.
 

4. Acidity in the Recipe

Tomatoes, lemon juice, and vinegar slow down softening, so add acidic ingredients near the end if you want your beans to cook faster.
 

Tips for Cooking Beans in a Slow Cooker Perfectly

Getting tender, flavorful beans isn’t hard once you know the right approach.
 

1. Use Enough Liquid

Beans need plenty of water or broth, usually about 3 to 4 cups per pound of dried beans.
 
The liquid should cover them by at least 2 inches so they don’t dry out while they cook.
 

2. Season at the Right Time

Salt is fine to add at the beginning, contrary to the old myth that it toughens beans.
 
But acidic ingredients like tomatoes should wait until the beans are already soft.
 

3. Skip the Stirring

Keep the lid on and resist the urge to stir, since every peek lets heat escape and adds cooking time.
 

4. Test Before Serving

Always taste a bean before you turn off the slow cooker, because if it’s still firm, you simply cook beans in a slow cooker for another 30 to 60 minutes.
 

So, How Long Do You Cook Beans in a Slow Cooker?

You cook beans in a slow cooker for 3 to 8 hours depending on the bean type, soaking, and your preferred texture.
 
Most beans land in the 6 to 8 hour range on low or 3 to 4 hours on high.
 
Soak when you can, check them near the early end of the time range, and season thoughtfully.
 
Once you know how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker for your favorite varieties, you’ll have tender, homemade beans ready with almost no effort at all.