Step 1

Dice the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the bacon and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the fat has rendered.

Step 3

Add the onion to the skillet and continue cooking for about 5 minutes to soften up the onions. Stir in the garlic and continue cooking for 1 minute.

Step 4

Use a slotted spoon to scoop the bacon and onion mixture out into a crockpot. This will transfer some of the bacon grease to the crockpot, which does add flavor.

Step 5

Add the remaining ingredients to the crockpot and stir well to combine.

Step 6

Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours. Stir occasionally as the beans cook to prevent the edges from burning.

Step 7

Serve warm.