By Bring Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks Recipe to your table with an easy method and crowd-pleasing taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike.
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks Recipe captures the essence of meals|chicken while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks Recipe becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
2 lbs ham hocks
1 lb pinto beans
3 cloves garlic, minced
32 oz (4 cups) low-sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, minced
1 stalk celery, minced
1/2 green bell pepper, minced
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 vegetable bouillon cube
PREPARATION STEPS
Prepare the Ham Hocks:
Begin by washing the ham hocks thoroughly
Place them in a large stockpot and cover with 8 cups of water
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 hours
This slow cooking process allows the ham hocks to become tender and release their rich, smoky flavor.
Prepare the Pinto Beans:
While the ham hocks are simmering, wash the pinto beans thoroughly
After the ham hocks have cooked for 2 hours, add the beans to the pot along with the low-sodium chicken broth
Stir in the minced garlic, butter, onion, celery, green bell pepper, cumin, paprika, black pepper, dried parsley, thyme, and vegetable bouillon cube
These seasonings add depth and flavor to the beans, creating a hearty, comforting dish.
Cook the Beans:
Continue to simmer the mixture for an additional 2.5 hours, or until the beans are soft and buttery
Stir occasionally to ensure the beans cook evenly and absorb all the flavors
The ham hocks will infuse the broth with their rich, smoky essence, while the beans become tender and flavorful.
Serve:
Once the beans are fully cooked and the broth is thick and rich, remove the ham hocks from the pot
You can shred the meat and return it to the pot, discarding the bones and excess fat
Serve the pinto beans and ham hocks with a side of warm cornbread for a classic, comforting meal.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 850mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 12g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 25g
Servings: 6-8 servings
This Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner
The combination of tender ham hocks and buttery pinto beans, infused with rich seasonings, creates a soul-warming meal that’s sure to satisfy
Don’t forget to enjoy it with a slice of cornbread for the full Southern experience!
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 35 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~350 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
