There’s something truly comforting about a pot of slow-cooked Hoppin’ John bubbling away, filling the air with smoky and savory scents. This Southern classic pairs black-eyed peas with smoked sausage, creating a hearty meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. In my own kitchen, this recipe has become a staple; it always evokes memories of family feasts, laughter, and stories shared around the table.
Crock Pot Hoppin’ John
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting Southern classic made with black-eyed peas and smoked sausage, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 rib celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and chilies
- 3 cups beef broth
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, slice the smoked sausage and cook until caramelized.
- Transfer the sausage to your crock pot.
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, water, and all seasonings to the pot.
- Stir well to combine, then set the crock pot to high.
- After one hour of cooking, switch to low and simmer for an additional 7 hours until the beans are tender.
Notes
Consider soaking the black-eyed peas overnight for better flavor and even cooking. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and omit sausage.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern
Why make this recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
Hoppin’ John is not just a meal; it epitomizes comfort food at its finest. This dish combines simplicity with richness, making it incredibly appealing. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight supper or something special for New Year’s Day to ensure good luck, Hoppin’ John delivers. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it ideal for anyone cooking for a crowd or just trying to stretch their dollar.
“The flavors in this Hoppin’ John are incredible! It’s become my go-to recipe for family dinners. Everyone always asks for seconds!” – Happy Home Chef
How to make :
Step-by-step overview
The beauty of this Crock Pot Hoppin’ John lies in its hands-off, slow cooking process. You’ll begin by browning the sausage for added flavor before combining it with a delightful medley of beans, vegetables, and spices in your slow cooker.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min
Ingredients
Gather these items
To recreate this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 Pound Dried Black Eyed Peas
- 1 Pound Smoked Sausage (sliced)
- 1 Each Yellow Onion (diced)
- 1 Each Green Bell Pepper (diced)
- 1 Rib Celery (diced)
- 4 Cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 (10 Ounce) Can Diced Tomatoes and Chilies
- 3 Cups Beef Broth
- 4 Cups Water
- 1 Tablespoon Creole Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- Salt and Pepper to taste
You can easily substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian adaptation.
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, slice the smoked sausage and add it to the pan, cooking just until caramelized to enhance flavor.
- Transfer the sausage to your crock pot.
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, water, and all the seasonings to the pot.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients, then set your crock pot to high.
- After one hour of cooking, switch the setting to low and allow it to simmer for an additional 7 hours until the beans are tender and flavorful.
How to serve :
Best ways to enjoy it
Crock Pot Hoppin’ John shines as a stand-alone dish or alongside cornbread for a true Southern feast. For added elegance, serve it with a sprinkle of fresh green onions or cilantro on top. Consider pairing it with a light salad for a refreshing contrast, or dive into traditional sides like collard greens or fried green tomatoes to round out your meal.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your delicious Hoppin’ John fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’d like to extend its life, feel free to freeze it; just allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. When reheating, ensure it’s heated to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
To really enhance the flavors of your Hoppin’ John, consider soaking the black-eyed peas overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps them cook more evenly. If you’d like a little extra heat, toss in a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mix before cooking.
Variations
Creative twists
While traditional Hoppin’ John is beloved, there are endless opportunities for variation! Swap in lentils for a different bean experience or replace the sausage with diced ham or even a vegetarian sausage. Adding a splash of hot sauce at serving can cater to those who enjoy a kick, or garnish with avocado for a Creamy texture.
FAQs
Common questions
- Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried? Yes, you can use canned black-eyed peas. Just rinse and drain them before adding them to the crock pot. Reduce the cooking time, as they do not need as long to cook.
- Is it safe to keep leftovers? Absolutely! Ensure they’re stored properly in an airtight container and reheat to at least 165°F for optimal safety.
- Can I make Hoppin’ John vegetarian? You can easily make this dish vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the sausage or using a plant-based alternative. The dish will still be hearty and flavorful.