Simple, hearty, and full of comforting flavor, these slow cooker lima beans are tender, creamy, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this budget-friendly dish is perfect as a side or cozy main meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only a few simple ingredients
- No soaking required
- Easy slow cooker recipe
- Creamy and comforting texture
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried large lima beans, rinsed and picked over
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
1. Rinse the Beans
Rinse the dried lima beans under cool water.
Remove:
- broken beans
- debris or small stones
No soaking is needed.
2. Add to Slow Cooker
Place the rinsed beans into the slow cooker in an even layer.
Sprinkle over:
- kosher salt
- garlic powder
3. Add the Broth
Pour the chicken broth over the beans until mostly submerged.
Stir gently to distribute the seasonings evenly.
4. Slow Cook
Cover with the lid and cook until the beans are tender and creamy.
Cooking Times
- HIGH: 4–5 hours
or - LOW: 7–8 hours
Avoid opening the lid often during cooking.
5. Thicken if Desired
For a creamier texture:
Lightly mash some of the cooked beans against the side of the slow cooker and stir them back into the broth.
6. Rest and Serve
Turn the slow cooker to WARM and let the beans sit for:
- 10–15 minutes
Serve hot with some of the savory broth spooned over the top.
Tips
- Add diced ham or smoked sausage for extra flavor.
- A bay leaf can add deeper savory taste during cooking.
- If the beans seem too thick, stir in a splash of warm broth before serving.
Serving Ideas
Serve with:
- cornbread
- rice
- roasted chicken
- smoked meats
- sautéed greens
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Conclusion
These slow cooker lima beans are creamy, comforting, and wonderfully simple. With almost no prep work, they deliver a warm homemade meal that feels hearty and satisfying every time.
