Slow Cooker Butterbean, Pesto & Chorizo Stew

This easy Slow Cooker Butterbean, Pesto & Chorizo Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. With smoky chorizo, creamy butterbeans, and a topping of fresh pesto and Parmesan, it’s a simple and nutritious dinner that’s flexible to your pantry staples. Enjoy it with crispy focaccia!

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Recipe Ingredients

250g (9 oz) chorizo, chopped
2 x 400g (2 x 14 oz) tins of butter beans, drained and rinsed
2 x 400g (2 x 14 oz) tins of chopped tomatoes
1 red onion, finely sliced
1 tsp piri-piri sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

To Serve:

4–6 tbsp green pesto
100g (3.5 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated
A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
A small handful of pine nuts
A drizzle of olive oil
4–6 slices of focaccia

How To Make Slow Cooker Butterbean, Pesto & Chorizo Stew

Prepare the Stew: Put all the ingredients into your slow cooker, season with salt and pepper, and stir well. Cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
Serve: Top with spoonfuls of pesto, grated Parmesan, fresh basil, and pine nuts. Drizzle with olive oil and serve alongside focaccia for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

Use good-quality chorizo: The flavor of the stew relies on the chorizo, so choose a flavorful, high-quality one for the best taste.
Adjust seasoning carefully: Add salt and pepper to taste, but remember the chorizo can be salty, so season lightly at first and taste before adding more.
Stir the stew halfway: For even cooking, stir the stew halfway through the cooking time, especially if you’re using the low setting.
Go easy on the pesto: The pesto is rich, so a little goes a long way. Start with 1 tbsp per serving and adjust to your taste.
Use fresh basil: Fresh basil makes a huge difference in flavor, so don’t skip it! Chop it just before serving for the best taste and aroma.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Can I Use a Different Type of Bean?

Yes, you can swap butterbeans for cannellini or kidney beans if preferred, but butterbeans give a creamy texture that complements the stew.

Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?

Yes, the stew can be made a day ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Can I Make This Without Chorizo?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, replace chorizo with a plant-based sausage or add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for flavor.

What Other Toppings Can I Use?

Try adding crumbled feta or a dollop of sour cream in place of the pesto for a different twist.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and freezing for up to 3 months.

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