How Long Do You Cook Beans In A Slow Cooker

You can cook beans in a slow cooker in about 4 to 8 hours on low, depending on the type of bean and whether you soaked them first.
 
So if you’ve been wondering how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker, the short answer is most beans take between 4 and 6 hours on high or 6 to 8 hours on low after soaking.
 
If you skip soaking, you can still cook beans in a slow cooker but you’ll need to add more time and usually more liquid.
 
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker for different varieties, plus the best tips so your beans come out tender every single time.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

How Long Do You Cook Beans in a Slow Cooker?

How long do you cook beans in a slow cooker really comes down to the bean variety, the temperature setting, and whether they were presoaked.
 
Here’s a quick breakdown so you have a solid starting point.
 

1. Soaked Beans on Low

If you soaked your beans overnight, cooking beans in a slow cooker on low takes about 6 to 8 hours.
 
This is the gentlest method and gives you creamy, evenly cooked beans with very little chance of them falling apart.
 

2. Soaked Beans on High

When you cook beans in a slow cooker on high, soaked beans are usually done in 4 to 5 hours.
 
This works great when you’re short on time but still want that slow-cooked flavor.
 

3. Unsoaked Beans

If you didn’t soak your beans, how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker then?
 
You’re looking at 8 to 10 hours on low or 5 to 6 hours on high.
 
Unsoaked beans also need extra water, so add about 2 inches of liquid above the beans.
 

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

Different beans cook at different speeds, so here’s a handy guide to help you nail the timing.
 

1. Black Beans

How long do you cook beans in a slow cooker when they’re black beans?
 
Soaked black beans take about 4 to 6 hours on low.
 
They hold their shape well and are perfect for soups, tacos, and rice bowls.
 

2. Pinto Beans

Pinto beans are one of the most popular beans to cook in a slow cooker.
 
Soaked pinto beans need around 6 to 8 hours on low.
 
They turn soft and creamy and mash beautifully for refried beans.
 

3. Kidney Beans

When you cook beans in a slow cooker, kidney beans take about 6 to 8 hours on low after soaking.
 
Just make sure you boil them for at least 10 minutes before adding them to the slow cooker.
 
This destroys a toxin called phytohaemagglutinin that can make you sick.
 

4. Chickpeas

Chickpeas are firmer, so how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker for these?
 
Plan on 8 to 10 hours on low for soaked chickpeas.
 
They take the longest, but the result is buttery, tender garbanzo beans perfect for hummus.
 

5. Navy Beans

Navy beans cook fairly quickly and are great for baked beans.
 
Soaked navy beans take about 5 to 7 hours on low in a slow cooker.
 

Tips for Cooking Beans in a Slow Cooker

Getting the timing right is only half the battle, so here are a few tips to make sure your beans turn out perfectly.
 

1. Always Sort and Rinse

Before you cook beans in a slow cooker, spread them out and pick out any small stones or shriveled beans.
 
Then rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear.
 

2. Soak Overnight for Best Results

Soaking beans overnight softens them, reduces cooking time, and makes them easier to digest.
 
If you’re wondering how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker without soaking, just remember to add a few extra hours.
 

3. Don’t Add Salt Too Early

Adding salt at the start can toughen the skins of your beans.
 
Wait until the beans are fully cooked, then season to taste.
 

4. Add Acid at the End

Tomatoes, lemon juice, and vinegar slow down the softening process.
 
So if you’re making a bean dish with tomato sauce, add it after the beans are tender.
 

5. Keep Beans Covered with Liquid

Beans absorb a lot of water as they cook, so keep them covered by at least 1 to 2 inches of liquid the whole time.
 

6. Test for Doneness

Around the 4-hour mark, start checking your beans.
 
They should be soft enough to mash easily between your fingers but not mushy.
 

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

You cook beans in a slow cooker for about 4 to 8 hours on low, depending on the bean type and whether you soaked them first.
 
Soaked beans typically take 6 to 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high.
 
Unsoaked beans need 8 to 10 hours on low or 5 to 6 hours on high.
 
And chickpeas take the longest, while black beans and navy beans cook the fastest.
 
Once you know how long do you cook beans in a slow cooker for your favorite variety, you’ll be able to make tender, flavorful beans without any guesswork.
 
So grab your slow cooker, pick your beans, and let them simmer away while you get on with your day.