Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these crockpot black-eyed peas! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day—simple, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying. I remember the first time I made them; it was a rainy afternoon, and the smell of garlic and spices wafted through my kitchen. I couldn’t wait to dig in! The beauty of this recipe is that it practically cooks itself while you go about your day. Just toss everything into the crockpot, and before you know it, you’ve got a comforting meal ready to share. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Crockpot Black Eyed Peas
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious crockpot black-eyed peas. I promise, it’s all super simple and straightforward. Let’s get into it!
- 2 cups dried black-eyed peas: Make sure to pick through them to remove any debris or damaged peas.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: This adds a rich flavor; feel free to use homemade or store-bought!
- 1 onion, chopped: I love using yellow onions for their sweetness, but any onion will do.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic really elevates the dish, giving it that aromatic kick!
- 1 teaspoon salt: A little salt goes a long way in enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just the right amount of heat to balance the dish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This gives a lovely, smoky flavor that you won’t want to skip!
- 1 bay leaf: Don’t forget to take this out before serving; it’s for flavor, not eating!
How to Prepare Crockpot Black Eyed Peas
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the preparation! This part is super easy and straightforward—just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish simmering away in no time!
Step 1: Sort and Rinse
First things first, you’ll want to sort and rinse the dried black-eyed peas. This step is essential! It helps remove any debris or bad peas that might have snuck in. Just spread them out on a clean surface, check them over, and then give them a good rinse under cold water. It’s a small effort that makes a big difference in quality!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once your peas are sorted and rinsed, it’s time to bring everything together! Grab your trusty crockpot and add in the black-eyed peas, vegetable broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Give it all a gentle stir to combine everything nicely. You want those flavors to mingle, so they can work their magic while they cook!
Step 3: Cooking the Dish
Now it’s time to let the crockpot do its thing! Cover it up and set it to low heat for 6-8 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the peas are tender and flavorful. I love the smell that fills the kitchen during this time—it’s pure comfort food magic. So, go ahead, kick back, relax, and let the crockpot work its wonders!
Step 4: Final Touches
Once your crockpot black-eyed peas are done cooking, don’t forget to remove that bay leaf before serving. It’s just for flavor, and nobody wants a surprise leaf on their plate! You can serve these up as a hearty main dish or alongside your favorite cornbread. Trust me, you’ll want to dive right into this cozy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the work!
- Perfect for busy days; you can set it and forget it while you go about your life.
- A hearty, comforting meal that brings warmth to any table.
- It’s vegan-friendly, making it a great option for everyone!
- Loaded with fiber and protein, this dish is not just tasty but also nutritious.
- You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients, like diced ham or spices.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day, so it’s great for meal prep.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your crockpot black-eyed peas turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to avoid any hiccups and ensure you’re serving up a delicious dish.
- Sort and Rinse Thoroughly: Don’t skip the sorting and rinsing! It’s crucial for removing any debris or bad peas. Plus, it helps ensure your dish is as clean and fresh as possible.
- Soak for Even More Tenderness: If you have time, soak the dried peas overnight. This can cut down on cooking time and make them even softer!
- Adjust the Liquid: Depending on how thick or soupy you like your peas, feel free to add more vegetable broth if you want a heartier consistency. Just keep an eye on it as it cooks!
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Once it’s done, taste your dish! You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper to suit your palate. Every batch can be a little different.
- Don’t Skip the Bay Leaf: That bay leaf adds a subtle depth of flavor—just remember to take it out before serving!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions can make a world of difference in flavor. They’re worth the extra effort!
- Store Leftovers Properly: Make sure to cool any leftovers completely before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re sure to impress everyone with your amazing crockpot black-eyed peas! Enjoy!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Let’s chat about the ingredients in this crockpot black-eyed peas recipe and how you can customize it to fit your tastes or what’s in your pantry! I’m all about flexibility in cooking, so here are some great notes and substitutions you can consider:
- Dried Black-Eyed Peas: If you can’t find dried black-eyed peas, you can substitute them with canned black-eyed peas. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well, and reduce the cooking time since they’re already cooked!
- Vegetable Broth: If you prefer a different flavor, chicken broth works beautifully too! You could also use water, but I highly recommend broth for that rich taste.
- Onion: While I love using yellow onions, you could swap them for white or red onions if that’s what you have on hand. Even leeks can add a unique flavor!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is best, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of fresh garlic.
- Smoked Paprika: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can give it a nice kick. Just keep in mind they’ll change the flavor a bit!
- Bays Leaf: Not a fan of bay leaves? You can leave it out; it just adds a subtle depth of flavor. Or try a sprig of fresh thyme instead for a different herbal note!
- For Additional Flavor: Want to jazz it up? Add diced ham, bacon, or even sausage to bring some meatiness to the dish. For a vegan option, try adding a splash of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor without the meat!
Feel free to get creative with your crockpot black-eyed peas! Cooking is all about making it your own, so don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients based on what you love or have available. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now that you’ve made this delicious batch of crockpot black-eyed peas, let’s talk about how to keep those leftovers fresh and tasty! Trust me, you’ll want to save every last bite.
To store your leftover black-eyed peas, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. I love using glass containers because they don’t retain odors and make reheating a breeze!
If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the leftovers! Just portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space at the top as they’ll expand when frozen. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw them overnight in the fridge.
For reheating, you have a couple of options! You can microwave individual servings for a quick meal, or if you’re reheating a larger batch, just pop them back into a pot on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help loosen them up and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. You’ll be amazed at how delicious they taste even after a few days—just like the first time!
So, don’t hesitate to enjoy those leftovers; they’re just as comforting and flavorful as when they first came out of the crockpot!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s break down the nutritional goodness of these crockpot black-eyed peas. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
This recipe is a fantastic source of fiber and plant-based protein, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Plus, it’s low in fat and cholesterol-free, so you can enjoy it guilt-free. It’s perfect for keeping you feeling full and satisfied without weighing you down!
So, dig in and enjoy these nutritious crockpot black-eyed peas knowing they’re good for you too!
FAQ Section
Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned black-eyed peas are a great alternative. Just remember to rinse and drain them well, and you’ll only need to cook them for about 1-2 hours on low heat since they’re already cooked.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Of course! Adding diced ham or crispy bacon can give your crockpot black-eyed peas a delicious, savory twist. Just toss in the meat with the other ingredients, and let those flavors meld together!
How do I know when the black-eyed peas are done?
They’re done when they’re tender and easily mash between your fingers. If they’re still a bit firm, let them cook a little longer. The beauty of the crockpot is that it’s pretty forgiving!
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! If you like some heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who want to kick it up a notch!
What should I serve with my black-eyed peas?
These crockpot black-eyed peas are perfect on their own, but they also pair beautifully with cornbread, rice, or even alongside collard greens for a classic Southern meal. Yum!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! Just let them cool completely, then pack them in airtight containers or freezer bags. They’ll keep well for about 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing them away!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As written, these crockpot black-eyed peas are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

Crockpot Black Eyed Peas: 6 Steps to Cozy Comfort Food
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A simple and hearty recipe for crockpot black-eyed peas.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried black-eyed peas
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the black-eyed peas.
- Add all ingredients to the crockpot.
- Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until peas are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- Soaking peas overnight can reduce cooking time.
- Feel free to add diced ham or bacon for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: crockpot black eyed peas, black-eyed peas recipe, slow cooker black-eyed peas