Crockpot Great Northern Beans Recipe

Looking for a hearty, protein-packed meal that basically cooks itself? These Crockpot Great Northern Beans are flavorful, comforting, and perfect for busy days.

Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is foolproof. Let’s break it down.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Great Northern Beans

• Simple Ingredients – No fancy stuff. Just pantry staples.
• Hands-Off Cooking – Your slow cooker does all the work.
• Flavor Bomb – Smoked turkey tails, bouillon, and spices bring bold taste.
• Versatile – Serve with rice, cornbread, or on its own.

Crockpot Great Northern Beans

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather everything before you start. Here’s your checklist:

• 2/3 of a 32 oz bag of Great Northern beans, dried
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 4 1/2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons Knorr chicken bouillon powder
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Better Than Bouillon chicken base
• 1 package smoked turkey tails, rinsed
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Sergio’s Golden Steer seasoning (or substitute with steak seasoning)

Prep the Beans: The Night Before

You can’t skip this step. Soaking beans reduces cooking time and improves texture.

1. Add beans to a large bowl.
2. Fill with cold water until beans are completely submerged.
3. Cover and soak overnight (8–12 hours).

Ready to Cook? Morning Prep

Here’s how to build serious flavor from the start:

1. Drain and rinse soaked beans.
2. Sort out any broken or discolored beans. Set aside.

Now it’s Crockpot time.

Build Your Base

1. Add diced onions, green and red peppers, and minced garlic to your slow cooker.
2. Pour in the beans and 4 1/2 cups of water.
3. Add the Knorr bouillon powder and Better Than Bouillon. Stir well.
4. Sprinkle in all seasonings:
   • Creole seasoning
   • Garlic powder
   • Paprika
   • Sergio’s seasoning

Add the Smoked Turkey Tails

Use tongs to nestle them into the liquid.

Make sure they’re fully submerged—this infuses the beans with that rich, smoky flavor.

Final Touch: Bay Leaves

Drop in two bay leaves. They add a subtle herbal note that pulls the whole dish together.

Set It and Forget It

You’ve done the hard part. Now let the Crockpot take over.

• Cook on High for 6 1/2 hours, OR
• Cook on Low for 9–10 hours

The goal? Meat should fall off the bone.

After Cooking: Time to Finish

1. Remove the bay leaves and discard.
2. Carefully take out the turkey tails.
3. Shred the meat, removing and discarding bones.
4. (Optional) Use a potato masher to mash some of the beans. This thickens the broth.

Prefer whole beans? Skip the mashing.

5. Add the shredded turkey back into the Crockpot. Stir to combine.

Serving Suggestions

These beans are loaded with flavor. Here’s how to complete the meal:

• White Rice – Classic Southern combo.
• Cornbread – Adds that sweet, buttery contrast.
• Hot Sauce – For an extra kick.
• Chopped parsley – Optional garnish for a fresh finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? You’re in luck.

• Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave or stovetop, stirring occasionally.

Beans tend to thicken in the fridge, so add a splash of water or broth when reheating.

FAQs About Crockpot Great Northern Beans

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
You could, but dried beans give better texture and flavor. Plus, they’re more cost-effective.

What can I use instead of turkey tails?
Try smoked turkey wings, ham hocks, or even bacon. Adjust cook time if needed.

Do I really have to soak the beans overnight?
Yes. Soaking helps beans cook evenly and reduces digestive issues.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure. Skip the meat and use vegetable bouillon. Add more seasonings for depth.

Why mash the beans?
Mashing thickens the broth and gives the dish a creamier texture. Totally optional, though.

Crockpot Great Northern Beans are proof that simple ingredients, slow-cooked with care, create rich, satisfying meals.

You don’t need a lot of steps. You just need the right flavors.

So grab your Crockpot, prep those beans, and get ready for a comforting dish that delivers every time.

Try it today. You won’t be disappointed.