This easy crock pot black eyed peas recipe is precisely that a simple, set-it-and-forget-it method for creating perfectly tender, flavorful black-eyed peas that will transport you straight to the heart of Southern comfort food. This recipe delivers a hearty, smoky, and deeply satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-plepleasing potluck.
Key Ingredients for Easy Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success! Here’s everything you’ll need to make these incredible black eyed peas:
- 1 lb (450g) dried black eyed peas: rinsed thoroughly and sorted to remove any small stones or debris. No need to soak them overnight for this crock pot recipe!
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: for a rich flavor base.
- 1 medium yellow onion: finely chopped.
- 2 cloves garlic: minced.
- 1 cup (200g) diced smoked ham hock or bacon: for that essential smoky, savory depth. If using bacon, cook it until crispy before adding, then crumble. For a vegetarian option, smoked paprika can be substituted.
- 1 red bell pepper: cored, seeded, and diced. Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
- 1 green bell pepper: cored, seeded, and diced. Contributes a fresh, slightly bitter note.
- 1 (14.5 oz / 411g) can diced tomatoes: undrained, for a touch of acidity and body.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: for an aromatic kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: enhances the smoky flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): for a hint of heat. Adjust to your preference.
- 2 bay leaves: for an extra layer of herbal flavor. Remember to remove them before serving!
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste. Start with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper, then adjust at the end.
- Fresh collard greens or spinach (optional): 2 cups, roughly chopped, added during the last hour for extra nutrition and greens.
- Fresh parsley or chopped green onions: for garnish, adding freshness and color.
How to Make Easy Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
This dish is a marvel of hands-off cooking, making it incredibly easy, deliciously satisfying, and perfect for busy days. The slow cooker works its magic, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, tender, and deeply flavored Southern comfort that practically cooks itself. With only about 15-20 minutes of active prep, you’ll be treated to a hearty meal that’s packed with smoky goodness and savory notes, ready in just a few hours.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Peas: Begin by thoroughly rinsing your dried black eyed peas under cold running water. Carefully pick through them, discarding any shriveled peas, small stones, or debris. While some recipes suggest pre-soaking, it’s not necessary for this slow cooker method!
- Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): For an extra layer of flavor, you can quickly sauté the chopped yellow onion in a skillet with a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer the sautéed mixture to your slow cooker. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add the raw onion and garlic directly to the slow cooker; the flavors will still meld beautifully.
- Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot: Add the rinsed black eyed peas to the slow cooker. Then, add the chicken or vegetable broth, diced smoked ham hock (or cooked bacon), diced red and green bell peppers, canned diced tomatoes (undrained), dried thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaves. Stir everything gently to combine.
- Seasoning: Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Remember, you can always adjust the seasoning at the end, so it’s best to start conservatively.
- Cook on Low or High: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the black eyed peas are tender and creamy. The cooking time can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker and the age of your peas.
- Add Greens (Optional): If you’re adding collard greens or spinach, stir them into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. They will wilt down and tenderize beautifully in the hot liquid.
- Final Touches: Once the peas are tender, carefully remove and discard the bay leaves. Taste the black eyed peas and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of cayenne for extra warmth.
- Serve: Ladle the hot black eyed peas into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions and serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments.
Easy Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse the dried black eyed peas thoroughly under cold water.1 pound dried black eyed peas
- Combine the rinsed black eyed peas, chicken or vegetable broth, chopped onion, celery, red bell pepper, minced garlic, diced ham or smoked sausage (if using), dried thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a 6-quart slow cooker.1 pound dried black eyed peas, 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth, 1 onion, 2 stalks celery, 1 red bell pepper, 2 cloves garlic, 1 cup diced ham or smoked sausage, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Stir everything together well. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the black eyed peas are tender.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.Fresh parsley
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Easy Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
You’re going to fall head over heels for this easy crock pot black eyed peas recipe because it truly embodies everything a great comfort food should be. The main highlight is undoubtedly its incredible “set it and forget it” simplicity – just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do all the hard work while you go about your day. Not only is it unbelievably convenient, but making these black eyed peas at home is a fantastic way to save money compared to eating out, especially when feeding a crowd. The rich, smoky flavor from the ham hocks (or bacon) combined with the vibrant bell peppers and earthy spices creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting, making each spoonful a pure delight.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal, a lucky New Year’s dish, or just some good old-fashioned Southern goodness, this recipe delivers without fail. It’s so much more satisfying than canned versions and rivals the flavor of a stovetop dish with only a fraction of the effort. If you enjoy wholesome, hearty meals, you’ll also adore our “One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Veggies” – another fuss-free favorite for busy evenings. Give this easy crock pot black eyed peas recipe a try, and prepare to be amazed at how simple and delicious homemade comfort food can be!
What to Serve Easy Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas With
Black eyed peas are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of Southern staples and lighter sides. Here are some delicious ideas:
- Cornbread: A classic pairing! The savory, slightly sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful cooking liquid.
- Collard Greens: Whether slow-cooked with a bit of smoked meat or simply sautéed, collard greens are a traditional and complementary side.
- Steamed White Rice: For a heartier meal, serve your black eyed peas over a bed of fluffy white rice.
- Hushpuppies or Fried Okra: These fried treats add a delightful crunch and Southern flair to the meal.
- Green Salad: A crisp, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the peas.
- Hot Sauce: A dash of your favorite hot sauce is a must for many who love a little extra kick.
- Chopped Raw Onions or Pickled Jalapeños: For a sharp, tangy contrast that brightens the dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Crock Pot Black Eyed Peas
Achieving perfectly tender and flavorful black eyed peas is easy with these expert tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker: Ensure there’s enough liquid to cover the peas, but don’t fill the slow cooker past about two-thirds full, especially if you’re adding greens later. This prevents uneven cooking and ensures everything cooks thoroughly.
- Rinse, Rinse, Rinse: While pre-soaking isn’t necessary for the slow cooker, thoroughly rinsing your dried black eyed peas is crucial. This step removes any dirt, debris, or small stones that might be present. Spread them out on a light-colored surface after rinsing to visually inspect them.
- Adjust Seasoning at the End: The flavors will concentrate and deepen as the peas cook. Wait until the end of the cooking time to make final adjustments to salt, pepper, and any other spices. Smoked meats can be quite salty, so tasting at the end prevents an overly salty dish.
- For a Richer Broth: If you want an even deeper, more complex flavor, consider using homemade chicken or vegetable broth. Alternatively, you can dissolve a bouillon cube in water in place of some of the store-bought broth.
- Add “Creaminess” Naturally: If your peas aren’t as creamy as you’d like, you can gently mash a small portion of the cooked peas against the side of the slow cooker with the back of a spoon. This releases some of their starches, thickening the liquid naturally.
- Smoky Flavor Without Meat: For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hock or bacon. Increase the smoked paprika to 1 teaspoon and add a few drops of liquid smoke (available in most grocery stores) if desired, but sparingly, as it’s potent! A dash of tamari or soy sauce can also add umami depth.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These easy crock pot black eyed peas are fantastic for meal prepping and generate delicious leftovers.
- Storage in the Refrigerator: Allow the black eyed peas to cool completely to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking) before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheating:
- Microwave: For individual portions, microwave on high, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Stovetop: For larger portions, gently reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a splash of extra broth or water to thin if they have thickened too much in the fridge.
- Freezing: Black eyed peas freeze exceptionally well!
- Ensure the peas are completely cooled.
- Transfer them into freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label with the date.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thawing Frozen Peas: To thaw, transfer the frozen peas to the refrigerator overnight. You can also reheat them directly from frozen on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of liquid if needed, or in the microwave. The texture will remain quite good after thawing and reheating.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that nourishes the body and comforts the soul, and this easy crock pot black eyed peas recipe does exactly that. With minimal effort, you can create a truly authentic, flavor-packed Southern classic that’s perfect for any occasion, from a simple weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. The rich, smoky aroma that fills your kitchen as these peas slowly simmer is just a preview of the deliciousness to come. So, dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of pure comfort that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ready to start cooking? Explore hundreds of delicious recipes now, and for daily inspiration and curated food ideas, follow us on Pinterest!