For a richer flavor, consider using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. If you don't have time for a long soak, use the quick-soak method: bring the beans to a boil in a pot, then remove from heat and let them sit for 1 hour before draining and proceeding with the recipe. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. These beans are even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to deepen and meld.
Best Ever Pinto Beans
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PREP TIME10 mins
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COOK TIME3 hrs
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TOTAL TIME7 hrs 10 mins
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SERVING6 People
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VIEWS187
These pinto beans, simmered to perfection with smoked ham hock and a hint of sweetness, are a comforting Southern classic. Serve them the traditional way with cornbread and your favorite steamed greens for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate50 g
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Cholesterol23 mg
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Fiber16 g
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Protein22 g
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Saturated Fat3 g
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Sodium509 mg
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Sugar4 g
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Fat8 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
DIRECTIONS
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01 Step
Recipe View 4 hrs In a large bowl, add pinto beans and cover generously with water. Soak beans for at least 4 hours, changing the water every 30 to 45 minutes to remove impurities. Drain thoroughly. (4 hours soaking)
02 Step
Recipe View 5 mins In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, bring 6 cups of water to a rolling boil. Add the drained pinto beans, smoked ham hock, and kosher salt. Ensure the beans and ham hock are covered by at least 1 inch of water; add more if necessary. (5 minutes)
03 Step
Recipe View 2 hrs 30 mins Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer gently until the beans are tender and creamy. This may take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours, depending on the age and variety of your beans. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. (2-3 hours)
04 Step
Recipe View 15 mins Once the beans are tender, remove the ham hock from the pot. Allow it to cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone. Discard the bone and any excess skin or fat. Chop the shredded ham and return it to the pot with the beans. (15 minutes)
05 Step
Recipe View 1 hrs Stir in the tomato sauce and brown sugar. Simmer uncovered for another hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. (1 hour)
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Cheyanne Streich
May 29, 2025Soaking the beans overnight really made a difference in the texture. They were so creamy!
Jaylin Kassulke
Mar 30, 2025My family devoured these! They're so much better than canned beans.
Madalyn Mclaughlin
Mar 22, 2025The touch of brown sugar is genius! It adds just the right amount of sweetness.
Amiya Weber
Oct 14, 2024These beans are seriously the best I've ever made! The ham hock makes all the difference.
Josefa Reynolds
Apr 2, 2024I added a diced onion and some garlic when I started simmering, and it added even more flavor!
Odie Larkin
Feb 9, 2024I didn't have a ham hock, so I used smoked sausage, and they were still amazing!
Trenton Lakin
Jan 22, 2024I've made this recipe several times, and it's always a hit. So easy and delicious!
Hertha Hansen
Nov 6, 2023Great recipe! I'll definitely be making this again.