Crock Pot Hoppin John Recipe for Easy Southern Comfort

When it comes to Southern comfort food, few dishes capture the essence of tradition and flavor quite like Hoppin’ John. This classic dish, made with black-eyed peas, rice, and smoky pork, is a staple in Southern kitchens and a lucky charm for New Year’s Day celebrations.

But what if you could simplify the cooking process without sacrificing any of the rich, hearty taste? Enter the crock pot Hoppin’ John recipe, a slow cooker version that lets the flavors meld beautifully while you go about your day.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this recipe is both approachable and deeply satisfying.

Using a crock pot means you’ll have a hands-off cooking experience that results in perfectly tender black-eyed peas and savory pork infused with spices. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step of creating this soulful dish, share tips for customization, and provide serving ideas to make your meal truly special.

Ready to bring some Southern charm to your dinner table? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hoppin’ John made in a crock pot offers several advantages that make it a go-to recipe for busy home cooks. First, the slow cooker allows the ingredients to simmer gently for hours, which helps develop a deep, rich flavor that’s hard to beat.

No need to babysit the stove or worry about stirring constantly—just set it and forget it!

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice levels, swap out proteins, or even make it vegetarian-friendly with a few smart substitutions.

Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with protein and fiber, making it a nourishing option for any meal.

Finally, it’s a dish that brings people together. Whether served as a comforting weeknight dinner or as part of a festive New Year’s tradition, crock pot Hoppin’ John is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried black-eyed peas (rinsed and sorted)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 smoked ham hock (or 6 oz smoked sausage, sliced)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• 6-quart crock pot or slow cooker
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Small bowl for rinsing peas
• Colander or sieve for draining rice

Instructions

1. Prepare the black-eyed peas: Rinse the dried black-eyed peas under cold water and pick out any debris or damaged peas.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables and ham hock to crock pot: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crock pot. Nestle the smoked ham hock (or sausage) into the mixture.
4. Add black-eyed peas and broth: Pour the rinsed black-eyed peas and chicken broth into the crock pot. Stir gently to combine.
5. Season: Add smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the peas are tender. Stir occasionally if possible.
7. Add rice: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the rinsed rice. Cover and continue cooking until rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
8. Remove ham hock and shred: Take out the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the crock pot. Discard the bone.
9. Final stir and taste: Mix everything well. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
10. Garnish and serve: Spoon into bowls, garnish with sliced green onions, and offer hot sauce on the side.

Tips & Variations

“For a vegetarian twist, omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor.”

Soaking Black-Eyed Peas: Although not necessary, soaking black-eyed peas overnight can reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

Rice Alternatives: Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, but increase the cooking time accordingly.

Spice it Up: Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicier kick if you enjoy heat.

Make it Ahead: Hoppin’ John tastes even better the next day. Prepare it the night before and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Hoppin’ John is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside cornbread for a classic Southern combo.

A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the rich flavors. For a festive touch, accompany your meal with collard greens or sautéed kale.

If you want to keep things simple, a dollop of creamy coleslaw or a few slices of ripe avocado can also complement the dish beautifully. And don’t forget the hot sauce for those who like an extra kick!

Conclusion

Making Hoppin’ John in a crock pot is a brilliant way to enjoy this beloved Southern dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The slow cooker allows the black-eyed peas to soften perfectly while infusing the broth and pork with smoky, savory goodness.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or as part of a New Year’s tradition, this recipe is sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites.

With easy-to-follow steps, flexible ingredient options, and tasty serving ideas, this crock pot Hoppin’ John will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try and experience the rich heritage and comforting flavors that make this dish a true Southern classic.

For more delicious slow cooker recipes, check out our Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, Crock Pot Beef Stew, and Vegetarian Chili to keep your weeknights stress-free and tasty!

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