Looking for an easy, hearty dinner packed with smoky flavor? This Slow Cooker Smoky Sausage and Three-Bean Stew is the perfect comfort food! Smoky sausage, tender beans, and colorful bell peppers simmer together in a rich, savory sauce. It’s an easy, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) baked beans
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds.
Add the white beans, kidney beans, baked beans, diced green bell pepper, and chopped onion to a 5–6-quart slow cooker.
Stir together the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and optional chili powder in a bowl.
Pour the sauce mixture over the beans and vegetables, then add the sliced smoked sausage.
Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have blended.
Stir gently before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot with cornbread, crusty bread, or rice.
Tips for the Best Results
Use smoked sausage or kielbasa for a rich, savory flavor.
For a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra chili powder.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the final 20–30 minutes of cooking, if your slow cooker instructions allow it.
Taste before adding extra salt because smoked sausage and canned beans may already contain plenty.
Storage
Let the stew cool, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
4–6 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
Servings
6 servings