Are you looking for comforting, soul-warming dishes that are perfect for a chilly day or a family gathering? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and hearty pinto beans and ham hocks comfort recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic soups to spicy stews, these recipes showcase the rich flavors of pinto beans paired with the smoky goodness of ham hocks.
From traditional Southern-style dishes like slow-cooked pinto beans with smoked ham hocks to bold Cajun-inspired creations featuring andouille sausage and jalapeños, there’s something for every taste and preference. And the best part? These recipes are easy to make and require minimal fuss, making them perfect for busy home cooks.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 recipes, exploring the flavors, ingredients, and techniques that bring them to life. Whether you’re a pinto beans and ham hocks fan or just looking for new ideas to add to your recipe repertoire, you won’t want to miss this comprehensive guide to comfort food at its finest.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and get ready to cozy up with some delicious and comforting pinto beans and ham hocks dishes!
Slow-Cooked Southern Pinto Beans with Smoked Ham Hocks
Southern pinto beans slow-cooked with smoked ham hocks, onions, and garlic create a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 smoked ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Add soaked pinto beans, smoked ham hocks, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Cook for 8-10 hours or until beans are tender and liquid has thickened slightly.
4. Remove ham hocks and shred meat from bones. Return shredded ham to the pot.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Spicy Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks Stew
A hearty, slow-cooked stew that combines the richness of ham hocks with the creamy texture of pinto beans, all tied together with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ham hocks, rinsed and drained
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the onions in olive oil until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add soaked pinto beans, chicken broth, water, ham hocks, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven; simmer for 8-10 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Classic Ham Hock and Pinto Bean Soup
Classic Ham Hock and Pinto Bean Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. With the rich flavor of ham hocks and the comforting texture of pinto beans, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 pounds smoked ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced celery
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked pinto beans, smoked ham hocks, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Remove the ham hocks from the pot and let them cool. Once cooled, remove the meat from the bones and return it to the pot.
5. Simmer the soup for an additional 30 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Collard Greens
This hearty dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, combining the rich flavors of pinto beans, smoky ham hocks, and slightly bitter collard greens. Perfect for a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups water
– 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, oil, onion, garlic, and water.
3. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 6-8 hours or overnight.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add chopped collard greens to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (or overnight)
Cajun-Style Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks
This classic Southern recipe is a staple of Cajun cuisine, perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal. The slow-cooked pinto beans and smoky ham hocks are a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks, preferably smoked or cured
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning blend
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Add water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours, or until beans are tender and falling apart.
4. Remove ham hocks from pot and chop into smaller pieces before returning them to the pot.
5. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Cornbread
Classic Southern Comfort: Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Cornbread
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting dish, featuring tender pinto beans slow-cooked with smoky ham hocks and served alongside a crumbly cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks, smoked or cured
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups water
– Cornbread ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in the water, cover, and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Prepare cornbread according to package instructions or recipe of your choice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Cornbread:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil or butter, for greasing
Smoky Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Bacon
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked ham hocks, crispy bacon, and tender pinto beans for a comforting and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
– 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat.
3. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to the pot; sauté until softened.
4. Add the soaked pinto beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Submerge the ham hocks in the bean mixture.
6. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
7. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
8. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beans are tender.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks in Tomato Sauce
This classic Southern recipe combines the rich flavor of ham hocks with tender pinto beans, all smothered in a tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ham hocks and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add soaked pinto beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
5. Cover pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 8-10 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Instant Pot Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks
This comforting recipe combines tender pinto beans with rich, smoky ham hocks, perfect for a cozy meal or leftovers. The Instant Pot makes quick work of cooking the beans and hocks to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto beans, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, pinto beans, water, and ham hocks. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Jalapeños
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of pinto beans and ham hocks with a spicy kick from jalapeños, perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal. This Southern-inspired dish is easy to make and can be served alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 pounds smoked ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, jalapeños, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in chicken broth and add brown sugar.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Cook 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 Garlic and Herbs
This hearty recipe combines the comforting flavors of pinto beans, smoky ham hocks, and aromatic garlic and herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ham hocks and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme sprigs, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked pinto beans to the pot, along with enough water to cover them by about an inch.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Andouille Sausage
This hearty recipe combines the richness of ham hocks with the smoky flavor of Andouille sausage, all wrapped up in a comforting pot of pinto beans. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a side dish to accompany your favorite Southern-style meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks, smoked or cured
– 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. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the pinto beans, ham hocks, Andouille sausage, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Sweet Potatoes
Classic Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Sweet Potatoes Recipe
This hearty dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, combining tender pinto beans with sweet potatoes and smoky ham hocks. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, 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.
6. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Rice
This hearty recipe combines the comforting flavors of pinto beans, smoky ham hocks, and fluffy rice for a satisfying one-pot meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, and garlic.
2. Add the rice and water, and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Bell Peppers
This hearty dish is a classic Southern comfort food, perfect for a cold winter’s night or a family gathering. The tender pinto beans, smoky ham hocks, and sweet bell peppers come together in a flavorful and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks, rinsed and drained
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and oregano.
2. Pour in the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours, or until beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Onions and Celery
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavors of ham hocks with the comforting goodness of pinto beans, onions, and celery. Perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 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 the pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, celery, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 8-10 hours or overnight, or until the beans are tender and the ham hocks fall-apart easy.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Cumin and Chili Powder
This classic Southern dish is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. With the smoky flavor of ham hocks and the warmth of cumin and chili powder, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine soaked pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and bay leaf.
2. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours, or until beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Bay Leaves and Thyme
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the richness of ham hocks with the natural sweetness of pinto beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 4 bay leaves
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the pinto beans, ham hocks, bay leaves, and thyme.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the bean mixture.
3. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with Apple Cider Vinegar
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the natural sweetness of pinto beans with the savory flavor of ham hocks, all tied together with a hint of tanginess from apple cider vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and apple cider vinegar.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the beans are tender.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks with a Touch of Molasses
Savor the rich flavors of the South with this hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a classic combination of tender pinto beans, smoky ham hocks, and a hint of sweetness from molasses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine pinto beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, chicken broth, water, and molasses.
3. Cover the pot and bake for 8-10 hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these delicious and hearty pinto beans and ham hocks comfort recipes! From classic soups to spicy stews, these mouthwatering dishes are perfect for a chilly day. Try Slow-Cooked Southern Pinto Beans with Smoked Ham Hocks or Spicy Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks Stew, or go for something new like Cajun-Style Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks. With 20 recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find your new favorite comfort food dish that’s packed with flavor and warmth.
