If you’re craving a dish that’s brimming with comforting Southern charm and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John Recipe. It’s a soul-satisfying blend of smoky sausage, tender black-eyed peas, and vibrant spices, all slowly simmered to perfection. This classic recipe has just the right balance of smoky, spicy, and savory notes that make it perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for both busy weeknights and lazy weekends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each item plays a vital role, from lending depth to the broth to bringing a colorful pop and a little kick to the palate.
- 1 lb smoked sausage: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and hearty texture that complements the beans perfectly.
- 4 (15-oz) cans black-eyed peas, undrained: Essential to true Hoppin’ John, these bring the star legume component that’s creamy and tender.
- 2 (10-oz) cans diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained: Offers a bright acidity and mild heat to balance the smokiness.
- 3 cups beef broth: Creates a savory and flavorful base that brings all the flavors together.
- 1 cup finely chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth, softening as it cooks down.
- ¾ cup chopped green bell pepper: Contributes a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant color.
- 2 tsp Cajun/Creole seasoning: Introduces a lively blend of spices for authentic Southern flair.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall savory profile without overpowering.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Brings a subtle hint of heat and earthiness.
- 1 family-size package boil-in-bag rice (about 1½ cups uncooked): The comforting, fluffy element that completes the dish and soaks up all the delicious juices.
How to Make Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by browning the sausage in a skillet for about five minutes to deepen its flavor and render out some fat. This step isn’t mandatory, but I promise it adds a smokier, richer dimension to your dish. If you’re short on time, you can skip it, and your Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John Recipe will still shine beautifully.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Next, transfer the browned sausage into your slow cooker and add the black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes and green chiles, beef broth, onion, green bell pepper, Cajun/Creole seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Give everything a quick stir, cover, and cook on LOW for 6 hours. This slow simmer lets the flavors marry slowly, creating a hearty and deeply satisfying stew-like texture.
Step 3: Add Rice and Finish Cooking
About 20 minutes before the end of cooking, pour the uncooked boil-in-bag rice into the slow cooker and stir it in. Cover again and cook on HIGH until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavorful broth. This last step transforms the Hoppin’ John into a perfectly balanced dish that combines beans, meat, and rice in a single pot of incredible comfort.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving experience, sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or parsley over the top for a burst of fresh color and flavor. A drizzle of hot sauce can add a wonderful kick, while crispy bacon bits or crumbled feta cheese provide a delightful texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or buttery cornbread. If you want to stay true to Southern roots, collard greens or sautéed kale are a perfect accompaniment with their earthy bitterness balancing the dish’s spice and smokiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Hoppin’ John over creamy grits or in a hollowed-out bell pepper for a colorful presentation. You can even turn leftovers into stuffed peppers or mini Hoppin’ John fritters for a tasty snack that shines as brightly as the original dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making the leftovers even more delicious. Just be sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Portion the Hoppin’ John into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth. You can add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use fresh black-eyed peas instead of canned?
Yes! If you prefer fresh or dried black-eyed peas, make sure to soak and cook dried peas thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker, or adjust the cooking time accordingly. Using canned peas just simplifies and speeds up the process.
What can I substitute for smoked sausage?
If smoked sausage isn’t your favorite or you want a lighter option, try smoked turkey sausage, andouille, or even a flavorful kielbasa. Each brings its own twist but maintains the smoky, robust essence.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John Recipe has a mild to medium spice level thanks to the Cajun seasoning and green chiles. You can always adjust the heat by adding more hot sauce or reducing spices to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead?
Absolutely! Brown the sausage and combine all ingredients in a large pot. Simmer on low for at least an hour, adding rice and cooking until it’s tender. Just keep an eye on the liquid levels to avoid sticking or burning.
Why is it called Hoppin’ John?
The name Hoppin’ John is believed to have Southern roots and is often associated with good luck, especially when eaten on New Year’s Day. The peas are said to represent coins, bringing prosperity for the upcoming year.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about letting a Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John Recipe simmer slowly while you go about your day, then coming back to an irresistible, soul-warming meal. Whether it’s your first time trying it or you’re a longtime fan, this recipe promises to bring hearty flavors and happy smiles to your table. So why not give it a go? Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern, Cajun
Description
This Slow Cooker Hoppin’ John is a hearty and flavorful Southern dish featuring smoked sausage, black-eyed peas, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and Cajun seasonings slow-cooked to perfection. Served over tender rice, it’s a comforting meal perfect for gatherings and family dinners.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
Beans and Vegetables
- 4 (15-oz) cans black-eyed peas, undrained
- 2 (10-oz) cans diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- ¾ cup chopped green bell pepper
Liquids and Seasonings
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tsp Cajun/Creole seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
Rice
- 1 family-size package boil-in-bag rice (about 1½ cups uncooked)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Cook the sliced smoked sausage in a large skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until browned. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned sausage to the slow cooker. Add the black-eyed peas (with liquid), diced tomatoes and green chiles (with liquid), beef broth, chopped onion, bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Add Rice and Finish Cooking: After 6 hours, pour the uncooked boil-in-bag rice directly into the slow cooker and stir well. Cover and cook on HIGH for an additional 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked. Serve warm.
Notes
- Skipping browning the sausage is possible, but it improves the flavor and texture.
- The boil-in-bag rice used here simplifies timing and cooking within the slow cooker.
- You can adjust the Cajun seasoning amount to taste depending on spice preference.
- For a milder version, consider using diced tomatoes without green chiles.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze nicely.
