These slow-cooker pinto beans are full of flavor—and they're nutritious too. Once you've mastered the recipe, try your own take by adding extra spice or other favorite ingredients. Prep ...

Drain and rinse thoroughly. Place the beans, water, and bay leaf in a 4-quart or larger slow-cooker. Cook on low for a total of 11 hours. At 9 hours, 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the onion.

Bring to the boil. Carefully transfer the soup to a slow cooker, cover with the lid, then cook on high for 4 hours until the vegetables are tender. Stir the beans and pasta into the soup ...