Crockpot Campfire Pinto Bean and Bacon Stew Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To enhance the smoky profile of the stew, consider adding a small drop of liquid smoke if your barbecue seasoning lacks a strong wood-fired note. This addition can bridge the gap between a standard seasoning blend and the depth of flavor typically associated with slow-smoked meats.

Always start with a very small amount, as liquid smoke is incredibly potent and can easily overwhelm the more delicate flavors of the beans and onions.

If you prefer a thicker, creamier texture, take a potato masher and lightly crush about one-fourth of the beans directly in the slow cooker after the cooking time is complete.

This releases some of the natural starches into the broth, thickening the stew without the need for additional thickeners. Stir the crushed beans into the rest of the stew to create a rich, cohesive base that perfectly complements the crispy bacon pieces.

Variations

• Spicy Barbecue Stew: Add one finely diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes during the assembly phase to introduce a gentle, lingering heat that balances the smokiness of the bacon.
• Vegetable-Packed Stew: Incorporate two diced carrots and a stalk of celery when adding the onions. These vegetables add a subtle sweetness and extra texture that complements the tender pinto beans.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop until steaming hot.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container once the stew has cooled to room temperature. It is important to refrigerate the stew within two hours of cooking to ensure food safety. The flavors often deepen after sitting in the refrigerator overnight, making this an excellent dish to prepare in advance for quick meals later in the week.

This stew is ideal for making ahead, as the flavors continue to meld and develop in the refrigerator. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, let it cool completely, and store it for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the consistency has become too thick during storage.

Serving ideas

Serve the stew piping hot in deep bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a touch of brightness. It pairs beautifully with a side of warm, crusty cornbread or simple buttered toast, which are perfect for soaking up the savory, smoky broth.

For an extra touch, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese can add a creamy contrast to the robust flavors of the beans and bacon.

Consider serving this stew as the main course for a casual gathering, accompanied by a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the bacon.

The simplicity of the dish makes it versatile enough for both quiet weeknight dinners and more relaxed weekend lunches. Ensure that each bowl gets a generous portion of the crispy bacon pieces, as they provide the essential savory punch that makes this campfire-inspired stew so satisfying.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crockpot Campfire Pinto Bean and Bacon Stew

Prep 10 minCook 8 hRest 5 minTotal 8 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 8 oz bacon, chopped and crisped
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp barbecue seasoning
• 2 cups beef broth

Instructions

1. Cook the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches a crispy texture. Once cooked, drain the excess fat and set the bacon aside. This step ensures the bacon adds a deep, savory crunch to the final stew without making it greasy.
2. Place the crisped bacon into the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the diced onions, followed by the drained pinto beans. Sprinkle the barbecue seasoning evenly over the mixture to ensure the flavors are well distributed throughout the pot.
3. Pour the beef broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 8 hours. Before serving, allow the stew to rest for 5 minutes to let the flavors settle and the sauce thicken slightly, creating a rich and hearty consistency.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

14.5 g

Carbohydrates

42 g

Fat

10.5 g

Fiber

9 g

Sugar

3 g

Sodium

780 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.