Quick & Delicious Crock Pot BBQ Black-Eyed Peas

Nothing says comfort like a warm, hearty bowl of black-eyed peas, especially when they’re infused with the rich, smoky flavor of BBQ. Quick & Delicious Crock Pot BBQ Black-Eyed Peas are perfect for cozy evenings at home, family gatherings, or even a laid-back holiday celebration. This recipe brings together the simplicity of slow-cooking with the bold taste of barbecue, creating a dish that is both flavorful and easy to prepare.

Inspired by traditional Southern cooking, black-eyed peas have long been associated with good luck and prosperity, often served on New Year’s Day in the American South. Over time, home cooks began experimenting with sauces and spices, giving these humble legumes a modern twist without losing their soul-warming charm. This version, cooked entirely in a crock pot, allows the flavors to meld beautifully while freeing up your time for other holiday prep, evening activities, or simply relaxing with family.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just discovering the joys of slow-cooker meals, this recipe is approachable, reliable, and utterly delicious. By the time your house fills with the mouthwatering aroma of BBQ and tender black-eyed peas, you’ll be eager to taste the final product—and so will everyone else.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade)

• 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Directions

1. Prepare the black-eyed peas: Rinse the peas thoroughly under cold water and remove any debris or stones. No need to soak them overnight—this recipe is designed for quick, no-soak cooking.

2. Sauté the aromatics: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until the vegetables are fragrant and slightly softened. This step enhances the flavor, but you can skip it if you’re in a hurry.

3. Combine ingredients in the crock pot: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crock pot. Add the black-eyed peas, BBQ sauce, broth, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the peas are evenly coated.

4. Cook on low: Cover the crock pot and cook on the low setting for 6–7 hours. The peas should be tender but not mushy, and the sauce should thicken slightly.

5. Check for seasoning: Taste the peas about 30 minutes before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or additional BBQ sauce according to your preference.

6. Serve and garnish: Spoon the BBQ black-eyed peas into bowls, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot as a main dish with cornbread or as a flavorful side for grilled vegetables or roasted chicken.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–7 hours

• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

• Yield: 6–8 servings

Notes

• Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth to keep this dish completely plant-based.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary.

• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Customize your spice level: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Delicious Crock Pot BBQ Black-Eyed Peas is a dish that combines convenience, nutrition, and flavor. Black-eyed peas are a great source of protein and fiber, making this recipe not only comforting but also wholesome. Cooking in a crock pot allows the ingredients to meld together naturally, resulting in a rich, hearty flavor with minimal hands-on time. The smoky BBQ sauce enhances the natural earthiness of the peas, creating a dish that is both satisfying and versatile.

This recipe is ideal for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or holiday gatherings when you want to serve something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect on its own or as a side dish to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can even pair it with cornbread for a classic Southern-inspired meal.

Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Black-Eyed Peas

1. Don’t skip the sauté step: Even a quick sauté of onion, bell pepper, and garlic can elevate the flavor dramatically.

2. Check the liquid levels: If the peas absorb too much liquid during cooking, add extra broth or water as needed. You want a thick, saucy consistency, not dry peas.

3. Use high-quality BBQ sauce: The BBQ sauce is the star flavor here, so choose one you love or make your own for a more personalized touch.

4. Test for doneness: Black-eyed peas should be tender but hold their shape. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed rice for a filling, budget-friendly meal.

• Pair with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes for a complete dinner.

• Spoon over mashed sweet potatoes for a unique Southern-inspired side.

• Serve alongside cornbread and a fresh salad for a comforting, balanced meal.

Health Benefits of Black-Eyed Peas

Black-eyed peas are a nutritional powerhouse. They are:

• High in protein and fiber, helping you feel full and satisfied.

• Low in fat and naturally cholesterol-free.

• Rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and potassium.

• Supportive of heart health, due to their fiber content and low sodium (especially when you control added salt).

Adding them to your diet in a flavorful, slow-cooked recipe like this makes it easier to enjoy their benefits without compromising on taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned black-eyed peas instead of dried?
Yes, you can absolutely use canned black-eyed peas if you want to save time. Using canned peas is a convenient alternative to the traditional dried version, and they will still absorb the delicious BBQ flavors beautifully. However, because canned peas are already cooked, they require much less time in the crock pot. Reduce the cooking time to about 2–3 hours on low, instead of the full 6–7 hours needed for dried peas. Be sure to drain and rinse the canned peas thoroughly before adding them to the crock pot to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid, which could affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Using canned peas is also a great option if you’re preparing this meal on a weekday or don’t have time for the longer cooking process.

2. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your preferred spice level. For a subtle kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. If you enjoy bolder heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or smoked chili powder, which will complement the BBQ flavor without overpowering it. Start with a small amount of spice and taste as you go, gradually increasing until it reaches your desired level of heat. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it away, so it’s best to proceed slowly, especially if cooking for family or guests with varying spice preferences.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, Crock Pot BBQ Black-Eyed Peas freeze very well, making this an excellent recipe for meal prep or batch cooking. Allow the peas to cool completely after cooking, then transfer them into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw the peas overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a small splash of broth or water during reheating can help restore the creamy consistency of the sauce. This method ensures the peas retain their flavor and texture, making it just as enjoyable as when freshly made.

4. What should I serve with Crock Pot BBQ Black-Eyed Peas?
This dish is wonderfully versatile and pairs with a wide variety of sides. For a traditional Southern-style meal, serve it with steamed rice or cornbread, which will soak up the rich BBQ sauce. Roasted or grilled vegetables make a colorful and nutritious accompaniment, while a fresh green salad adds brightness and balance to the meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken or turkey, for a hearty and satisfying dinner. The bold BBQ flavor makes it equally suitable as a main dish or as a flavorful side, giving you plenty of options for every occasion.

A Modern Twist on a Southern Classic

By combining the traditional Southern favorite of black-eyed peas with the bold, smoky flavor of BBQ, this crock pot recipe offers a modern twist that is approachable and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a casual dinner party or need a comforting weekday meal, Quick & Delicious Crock Pot BBQ Black-Eyed Peas is a reliable choice.

Its simplicity is deceptive—the combination of slow-cooked peas, sautéed aromatics, and tangy BBQ sauce creates layers of flavor that taste far more complicated than the recipe suggests. And because it’s made in a crock pot, it frees up your time to focus on other parts of the meal or simply relax while it cooks.

From its nutritional benefits to its comforting taste and ease of preparation, this recipe is a keeper. Make a batch today, and you may find yourself returning to it again and again, whether for everyday dinners, cozy evenings, or festive holiday meals.

Quick & Delicious Crock Pot BBQ Black-Eyed Peas

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This hearty and flavorful dish combines tender black-eyed peas with smoky BBQ sauce, creating a comforting meal perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or holiday gatherings. Inspired by traditional Southern cooking, this slow-cooker recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully with minimal effort, giving you a delicious, fuss-free dish everyone will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

• 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Rinse the black-eyed peas under cold water and remove any debris or stones.

• In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.

• Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crock pot. Add the black-eyed peas, BBQ sauce, broth, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

• Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6–7 hours, until peas are tender and sauce is slightly thickened.

• Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary 30 minutes before serving.

• Serve hot, garnished with parsley or green onions if desired.

Notes

• Use vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• This recipe freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicier version.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–7 hours

Michelle Davis