Easy Crock Pot Baked Beans (Anti-Inflammatory & Healthy)
📝 Description
These easy slow cooker baked beans are bold, smoky, slightly sweet, and packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like onions, garlic, mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Made with simple pantry staples, this healthy crock pot baked beans recipe is perfect for barbecues, family dinners, and make-ahead meals. No soaking, no fuss—just dump, stir, and let the slow cooker do the work.
🫘 Ingredients
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3 (15-oz) cans navy beans or pinto beans, drained & rinsed
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½ cup diced onion (anti-inflammatory powerhouse)
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½ cup low-sugar ketchup
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⅓ cup BBQ sauce (look for no HFCS)
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1 tbsp yellow or Dijon mustard
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1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
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¼ cup maple syrup or raw honey
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced garlic)
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Optional:
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½ tsp turmeric (strong anti-inflammatory boost)
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¼ tsp cayenne (metabolism & circulation)
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½ cup chopped turkey bacon or beef bacon (optional protein)
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🥣 Instructions
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Add beans to the crock pot.
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Layer in onions, garlic, and optional bacon.
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Add ketchup, BBQ sauce, mustard, vinegar, and maple syrup.
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Sprinkle in spices and stir gently.
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Cover and cook:
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LOW for 6–8 hours
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HIGH for 3–4 hours
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Stir before serving. Adjust sweetness or acidity to taste.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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BBQ chicken, grilled salmon, or turkey burgers
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As a plant-based protein side dish
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Over baked sweet potatoes
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With cornbread or gluten-free biscuits
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As a meal prep lunch with brown rice & greens
🔄 Variations
🔥 Spicy Anti-Inflammatory Beans
Add cayenne, chili powder, and fresh jalapeños.
🌿 Vegan & Plant-Based
Skip bacon entirely—still rich and satisfying.
🍎 Lower Sugar Version
Use unsweetened tomato sauce + monk fruit sweetener.
🥓 Southern-Style
Add smoked turkey leg or turkey bacon for depth.
🫘 High-Protein Beans
Mix in chickpeas or black beans.
❓ Related Questions (FAQ)
Are baked beans anti-inflammatory?
Yes! Beans are rich in fiber and antioxidants. Onions, garlic, mustard, turmeric, and apple cider vinegar enhance anti-inflammatory benefits.
Are crock pot baked beans healthy?
Homemade slow cooker baked beans are far healthier than canned versions—less sugar, fewer preservatives, and customizable ingredients.
Can I freeze baked beans?
Absolutely. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What beans work best?
Navy beans, pinto beans, or great northern beans are ideal.
🧮 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)
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Calories: 210
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Protein: 8g
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Fiber: 7g
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Fat: 2g
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Sugar: 9g
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Sodium: Varies by sauces used
High in plant-based protein, gut-friendly fiber, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
🌟 Final Thoughts
This easy crock pot baked beans recipe is proof that comfort food can be healthy, anti-inflammatory, and budget-friendly. Perfect for busy families, clean eating lifestyles, and anyone looking for a flavor-packed slow cooker side dish with real nutritional benefits.
