As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of pinto beans and ham hocks to lift your spirits. This classic combination of tender legumes and smoky pork is a staple in many Southern households, and for good reason. The rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a perfect dish for chilly fall and winter nights.
Whether you’re looking for a simple, slow-cooked recipe or something more complex with added spices and ingredients, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore 20 different pinto beans and ham hocks recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From traditional Southern-style dishes to creative twists and flavorful combinations, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Slow-Cooked Pinto Beans with Smoky Ham Hocks
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked pinto beans infused with smoky goodness from ham hocks, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 smoked ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion over medium heat until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked pinto beans, smoky ham hocks, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients by about 2 inches.
5. Stir in the cooked onion mixture from the skillet.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Southern-Style Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks Stew
This hearty stew is a staple of Southern cuisine, where slow-cooked pinto beans and tender ham hocks come together to create a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks, rinsed and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken broth and tomato paste; stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 8-10 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Spicy Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Jalapeños
A flavorful twist on traditional pinto beans, this recipe combines the richness of ham hocks with the bold heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks (about 12 ounces)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, bell pepper, jalapeños, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken broth and enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Collard Greens
This classic Southern dish is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. The combination of creamy pinto beans, tender ham hocks, and slightly bitter collard greens makes for a deliciously comforting experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped (about 4 cups)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked pinto beans and enough water to cover them by about an inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
2. Add the ham hocks, onion, garlic, collard greens, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
3. Continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the greens have wilted slightly.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Instant Pot Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks
This classic Southern recipe is a staple of comfort food, featuring tender pinto beans cooked to perfection with savory ham hocks. A perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 ham hocks (about 6 oz each)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the pinto beans, ham hocks, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Cornbread
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Cornbread – a match made in heaven! This hearty, comforting dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
For the Pinto Beans:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound smoked ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups water
For the Cornbread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Honey, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
3. Prepare cornbread by whisking together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add buttermilk, melted butter, and stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve pinto beans with ham hocks and cornbread on the side. Drizzle with honey, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (beans) + 20-25 minutes (cornbread)
Cajun-Style Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty, one-pot dish that combines tender pinto beans with smoky ham hocks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 smoked ham hocks (about 4 ounces each)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine soaked pinto beans and enough water to cover them by about 2 inches.
2. Add ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
4. Remove ham hocks from pot; chop meat into bite-sized pieces and return to pot.
5. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: About 2 1/2 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks Soup with Tomatoes
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks Soup with Tomatoes Recipe
This hearty soup is a Southern classic, perfect for a cold winter’s day or a comforting meal any time of the year. With tender pinto beans, smoky ham hocks, and juicy tomatoes, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 pounds ham hocks, smoked or cured
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine soaked pinto beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked ham hocks, and cumin.
2. Pour in chicken broth, making sure the ingredients are covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Add diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes) and continue simmering for another 30 minutes or until pinto beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Bacon
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, bacon, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in chicken broth until the mixture is covered by about an inch of liquid.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Garlic and Onions
This classic Southern dish is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion. With tender pinto beans, flavorful ham hocks, and a depth of flavor from sautéed garlic and onions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine ham hocks, garlic, and onions. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add pinto beans, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth, making sure the beans are covered.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 6-8 hours or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Smoked Sausage
This classic Southern recipe combines the comfort of pinto beans with the rich flavors of ham hocks and smoked sausage. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced smoked sausage (such as andouille)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, smoked sausage, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Bell Peppers
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine soaked pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, bell peppers, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
4. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender and ham hocks fall apart easily.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Rice
This classic Southern recipe is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With tender pinto beans, flavorful ham hocks, and creamy rice, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, and chicken broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Cook for 6-8 hours, or until beans are tender and falling apart.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, cook rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve pinto bean mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (with ham hocks), 20-25 minutes (without ham hocks)
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Cilantro and Lime
This classic Latin-inspired recipe is a flavorful and comforting twist on traditional beans and ham. The smoky flavor of the ham hocks pairs perfectly with the bright, citrusy notes of lime and cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine the pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, jalapeño, and olive oil.
3. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch, then bring to a boil.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Simmer for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender.
5. Remove from the oven and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Sweet Potatoes
This hearty dish is a Southern classic, blending the creamy richness of pinto beans with the savory goodness of ham hocks and sweet potatoes. A perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks, rinsed and drained
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, and cumin.
3. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
5. Meanwhile, bake sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until tender.
6. Serve pinto bean mixture over roasted sweet potatoes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Andouille Sausage
A classic Southern-inspired dish, this hearty recipe combines the comforting flavors of pinto beans, smoky ham hocks, and spicy Andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine soaked pinto beans, ham hocks, Andouille sausage, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in chicken broth, making sure the beans are covered by about an inch of liquid.
4. Cover the pot and bake for 8-10 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Okra
A hearty Southern-style dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. This recipe combines the rich flavor of ham hocks with the creamy texture of pinto beans and the earthy taste of okra.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped okra
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, okra, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and bake for 6-8 hours, or until beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 7-9 hours (total time, including soaking)
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Chipotle Peppers
This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of pinto beans, smoky ham hocks, and spicy chipotle peppers for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add water to cover the ingredients by about 2 inches.
4. Bring to a boil, then transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Corn on the Cob
Classic Southern Comfort Food: Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Corn on the Cob
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Fresh Herbs
A classic Southern dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe combines the rich flavors of pinto beans and ham hocks with fresh herbs for a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks, preferably smoked or cured
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
3. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 delicious pinto beans and ham hocks comfort recipes! From slow-cooked stews to Instant Pot creations, there’s something for everyone. Try Slow-Cooked Pinto Beans with Smoky Ham Hocks or Southern-Style Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks Stew for a classic comfort food experience. Spice things up with Spicy Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Jalapeños or add some smokiness with Cajun-Style Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks. Whatever your taste, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
