How Long Do You Cook Beans In The Crockpot

How long do you cook beans in the crockpot depends on the type of beans you’re using, but generally, it takes anywhere from 3 to 8 hours on low heat.
 
That’s a pretty wide range, I know, but there are a few factors that determine exactly how long you should cook beans in the crockpot.
 
Things like the variety of beans, whether they’re dried or canned, and even your altitude can affect the cooking time.
 
The good news is that once you know the basics, cooking beans in a crockpot becomes second nature and you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with the stovetop.
 
In this post, we’ll break down how long to cook beans in the crockpot for different types, plus a few tips to get them perfectly tender every single time.
 
Let’s dive in.
 

How Long Do You Cook Beans in the Crockpot Based on Type

When you’re figuring out how long do you cook beans in the crockpot, the type of bean matters more than anything else.
 
Here’s a quick breakdown so you’re not guessing:
 

1. Black Beans

Black beans usually take about 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high when they’re dried.
 
They hold their shape well, so they’re pretty forgiving if you accidentally leave them in a little longer.
 
If you’re using canned black beans, you’re really just heating them up, which takes about 1 to 2 hours on low.
 

2. Pinto Beans

Pinto beans are similar to black beans and generally need 6 to 8 hours on low.
 
They get nice and creamy when cooked properly, which is why they’re a favorite for refried beans.
 
So if you’ve wondered how long do you cook beans in the crockpot when making pinto beans from scratch, plan for most of the day.
 

3. Kidney Beans

Kidney beans take a bit longer, usually around 7 to 9 hours on low.
 
One important note: dried kidney beans need to be boiled for at least 10 minutes before going into the crockpot because of a toxin called phytohaemagglutinin.
 
The slow cooker doesn’t get hot enough to break it down on its own, so don’t skip this step.
 

4. Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)

Chickpeas are the toughest of the bunch and can take 8 to 10 hours on low.
 
They’re dense, so they need that extra time to soften up properly.
 
If you’re short on time, soaking them overnight first can shave off a couple of hours.
 

5. Canned Beans

Canned beans are already cooked, so how long do you cook beans in the crockpot when they come from a can?
 
Just 1 to 2 hours on low is plenty.
 
You’re basically warming them through and letting them soak up whatever flavors you’ve added.
 

Factors That Affect How Long You Cook Beans in the Crockpot

Beyond the type of bean, a few other things change the cooking time.
 

1. Soaking vs. Not Soaking

If you soak your beans overnight, you can cut the cooking time by about 1 to 2 hours.
 
Soaking also helps them cook more evenly and makes them easier to digest.
 
That said, you can absolutely skip the soak if you’re short on time, just add more cooking hours.
 

2. Low vs. High Setting

Low heat is slower but gives you more control and better flavor.
 
High heat speeds things up, but you’ll want to check on them more often so they don’t turn to mush.
 
A good rule of thumb: if a recipe says 6 to 8 hours on low, it’s roughly 3 to 4 hours on high.
 

3. Altitude

If you live at a high altitude, beans take longer to cook because water boils at a lower temperature.
 
You might need to add an extra hour or two to whatever time you’d normally use.
 

4. Age of the Beans

Older dried beans take longer to soften, sometimes a lot longer.
 
If your beans have been sitting in the pantry for over a year, expect to add extra time or they may never get fully tender.
 

Tips for Cooking Beans in the Crockpot

Getting the timing right is one thing, but these tips will help you nail the whole process.
 

1. Always Add Salt and Acid at the End

Adding salt or acidic ingredients like tomatoes too early can keep beans from softening.
 
Wait until the beans are tender, then season to taste.
 

2. Keep Beans Covered with Liquid

Beans need to stay submerged, so add 2 to 3 inches of water or broth above them.
 
Check halfway through and top off if needed.
 

3. Don’t Stir Too Much

Stirring breaks beans apart, so leave them alone for the most part.
 
A gentle stir near the end is all you need.
 

4. Taste Test Before Serving

Always taste a bean before you turn off the crockpot.
 
If it’s still firm, give it another hour and check again.
 

So, How Long Do You Cook Beans in the Crockpot?

How long do you cook beans in the crockpot comes down to the type of bean, whether it’s soaked, and your heat setting.
 
Dried beans generally need 6 to 8 hours on low, while canned beans only need 1 to 2 hours.
 
Soaking overnight, using the right liquid ratio, and saving salt for the end will give you tender, flavorful beans every time.
 
Now you know exactly how long do you cook beans in the crockpot, so go ahead and get a batch started.