Best Beanie Weenies: Slow-Cooked To Perfection

how long to cook beanie weenies in crock pot

Beanie weenies are a fun and classic recipe that is simple to make and loved by kids. The dish combines hot dogs with pork and beans, seasoned with a few basic ingredients. While the traditional recipe calls for canned pork and beans and hot dogs to be heated up in a pot, beanie weenies can also be made in a crockpot or slow cooker. So, how long do you need to cook beanie weenies in a crockpot?

Characteristics Values
Ingredients Canned pork and beans, hot dogs, onion, bacon, mustard, brown sugar
Nutritional Information Calories: 222kcal-399kcal, Carbohydrates: 38g-44g, Protein: 13g-17g, Fat: 3g-19g, Saturated Fat: 1g-8g, Cholesterol: 15mg-45mg, Sodium: 866mg-1425mg, Potassium: 387mg-726mg, Fiber: 6g-12g, Sugar: 19g-1g, Vitamin C: 0.8mg-4mg, Calcium: 50mg-118mg, Iron: 2mg-4mg
Crock Pot Cooking Time 2-8 hours

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Using canned vs. dry beans

Beanie Weenies is a simple, frugal meal that can be made in a crockpot. The basic ingredients are canned pork and beans and hot dogs, but it can be jazzed up with the addition of onion, bacon, mustard, and brown sugar.

When making Beanie Weenies, you can use canned beans or dry beans. If you use canned beans, the recipe can be cooked in 3 hours on high or 6 to 7 hours on low. However, if you choose to use dry beans, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, it is important to note that dry beans should not be cooked on low heat in a slow cooker. This is because they contain phytohemagglutinin, which is a toxin that can be dangerous if consumed. To destroy these toxins, dry beans must be heated to a temperature above 212 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 10 minutes. Therefore, it is recommended to cook dry beans on high heat in a crockpot.

Additionally, dry beans should be soaked before cooking. Soaking helps to remove toxins and improves the texture of the beans. There are two main methods for soaking: the overnight soak and the quick soak. For the overnight soak, cover the beans with about 2.5 times as much liquid and let them soak for around 8-12 hours. For the quick soak method, bring the beans and water to a boil, turn off the heat, and let them sit for 1-2 hours before draining and adding fresh water.

After soaking, the beans can be cooked in the crockpot. One recipe suggests cooking soaked beans on high for 3 hours, while another recommends cooking dry beans on high for 4 hours. It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the type of bean used, as some beans take longer to cook than others.

In conclusion, when making Beanie Weenies, you can use either canned beans or dry beans. If using dry beans, be sure to soak them beforehand and cook them on high heat to ensure they are safe to eat.

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Browning the hot dogs

Firstly, heat a medium-sized skillet on your stovetop. Adjust the stove to medium-high heat. Place the hot dogs on the skillet and cook until they are browned. You can add multiple hot dogs to the skillet at once, but be sure not to crowd them too much, as this will affect the browning process. Turn the hot dogs occasionally to ensure even browning on all sides.

The browning process should take a few minutes on each side, depending on how hot your skillet is. You will know they are ready when you see a nice, golden-brown colour on the surface of the hot dogs. If you prefer a deeper colour and extra crispness, you can continue cooking for a little longer, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Once the hot dogs are browned to your liking, remove them from the skillet. If you are browning a large batch of hot dogs, you may need to work in batches to ensure even cooking. Place the browned hot dogs on a plate or tray and set aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients for your Beanie Weenies.

Note that while browning the hot dogs adds a nice texture and flavour to the dish, it is not a mandatory step. If you are short on time or prefer a simpler approach, you can skip browning and add the uncooked hot dogs directly to the crock pot with the other ingredients. However, browning does enhance the overall taste and appearance of the dish.

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Adding extra ingredients

Beanie weenies are a simple and comforting dish that can be made in a crockpot or on a stovetop. The basic ingredients are hot dogs, baked beans, and various seasonings. However, there are several extra ingredients you can add to enhance the flavour and make this dish even more delicious.

One popular addition is bacon, which can be cooked in the skillet along with the hot dogs before adding the remaining ingredients. This adds a savoury, smoky flavour to the dish. If you're not a fan of bacon, you can simply use olive oil to cook the hot dogs.

Another way to elevate the flavour of beanie weenies is to use smoked sausage, such as andouille, instead of traditional hot dogs. This simple swap adds a richer, smokier taste to the dish. You can also experiment with different types of mustard, such as dijon, brown, or spicy mustard, to add a tangy kick.

Brown sugar is another common addition to beanie weenies. While most baked beans are already sweetened, adding a bit of brown sugar can give the dish a richer, sweeter flavour. For those who enjoy a more savoury dish, try adding some minced onion, either dried or fresh, to the mix. You can also include garlic powder for an extra savoury boost, though some may prefer to omit this ingredient.

If you're looking for a more grown-up version of beanie weenies, try using smoky sausage and baked beans to create a slow cooker "Kielbasa and Beans" dish. This variation offers a more sophisticated take on the classic, with a richer, more intense flavour profile. Additionally, you can serve beanie weenies with cornbread muffins, crackers, or bread for dipping, adding a heartier element to the meal.

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Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for Beanie Weenies in a crock pot can vary depending on the specific recipe and desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines and tips:

When using a slow cooker, it is recommended to cook Beanie Weenies on a low heat setting. The cooking time can range from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the recipe and the desired level of tenderness. For example, one recipe suggests cooking the dish on low heat for 3 to 4 hours, stirring halfway through, while another recipe recommends cooking for 6 to 8 hours for tender beans.

If you are in a hurry, you can cook Beanie Weenies on a high heat setting in the slow cooker. One recipe suggests cooking on high for 3 hours, resulting in a quicker cooking time without compromising taste.

Some recipes call for browning the hot dogs before adding them to the crock pot. This step is optional but can add a bit of texture and crispness to the dish. If you choose to brown the hot dogs, you can do so in a skillet over medium heat until they are browned to your desired level.

Additionally, it is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of beans used. If you are using dry beans, they will typically require a longer cooking time and may need to be soaked overnight or for several hours before cooking. Canned beans, on the other hand, are pre-cooked and will require a shorter cooking time in the crock pot.

Finally, it is always a good idea to taste-test the dish as it cooks to ensure it reaches your desired level of doneness. Beanie Weenies are a versatile and forgiving dish, so feel free to adjust the cooking time and temperature slightly to suit your taste preferences.

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Serving suggestions

Beanie weenies are a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or side dish. They are a great option for casual meals, gatherings, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. Here are some specific serving suggestions:

As a Main Course

Beanie weenies can be a comforting and satisfying main course, especially when served with complementary side dishes. Here are some ideas:

  • Cornbread muffins or plain buttered saltine crackers—these simple sides can add a comforting touch to the meal.
  • Grilled chicken or hamburgers—the beanie weenies can be a tasty side dish to grilled meats.
  • Biscuits—for a fun twist, try serving beanie weenies casserole-style with biscuits baked on top.

As a Side Dish

Beanie weenies also make a great side dish, especially when paired with grilled dishes or at potlucks. Here are some suggestions:

  • Grilled chicken or other grilled dishes—the beanie weenies can complement grilled foods nicely.
  • Potluck dishes—this dish is perfect for potlucks as a side, especially when paired with other potluck favourites like pulled pork or nachos.

Variations and Customisations

The beauty of beanie weenies is that they can be customised to your taste preferences. Here are some ideas to vary the dish:

  • BBQ sauce, mustard, or onions—these additions can enhance the flavour and provide a tangy or savoury twist.
  • Brown sugar—adding brown sugar can make the dish sweeter and is a popular variation.
  • Bacon—including bacon in the dish, as suggested in some recipes, adds a savoury touch.
  • Different types of beans—while pork n' beans are standard, you can experiment with other types like Great Northern beans, navy beans, or white kidney beans.
  • Different types of hot dogs—you can use beef, turkey, pork, nitrate-free, or even cheese-stuffed hot dogs to suit your preference.
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Frequently asked questions

It is recommended that you cook beanie weenies for 3-4 hours on low heat. However, some recipes suggest cooking for 6-7 hours on low heat or 3 hours on high heat.

You will need hot dogs, baked beans, and seasonings. Common seasonings include brown sugar, onion, bacon, mustard, and barbecue sauce.

First, brown the hot dogs in a skillet over medium heat. Next, add the hot dogs to the crock pot with the baked beans and seasonings. Stir everything together, cover the crock pot, and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours.

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