Paula Deen's Pinto Beans

Warm, comforting, and brimming with Southern charm, Paula Deen's Pinto Beans recipe is a hearty classic perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. This slow-simmered dish combines tender pinto beans with smoky ham hock, aromatic onion, garlic, and a flavorful blend of chicken broth and spices, creating a rich and satisfying meal. The optional cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick, while a garnish of fresh parsley brightens the final presentation. Ideal as a standalone dish or paired with fluffy cornbread or steamed rice, these beans are packed with bold, home-cooked flavor. With simple ingredients and slow-cooked perfection, this recipe is sure to be a go-to favorite for Southern food lovers. Keywords: pinto beans recipe, Southern pinto beans, ham hock beans, homemade comfort food, easy slow-cooked beans.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:195 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound Dried pinto beans
• 1 piece Smoked ham hock
• 1 large Yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves Garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups Chicken broth
• 2 cups Water
• 1 leaf Bay leaf
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoons Cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried pinto beans in cold water, removing any debris or bad beans. Place them in a large bowl and cover with water. Allow the beans to soak overnight or at least 8 hours.

Step 2

Drain the soaked beans and set aside. In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the smoked ham hock and diced onion. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to soften the onions.

Step 3

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the soaked pinto beans, bay leaf, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir everything to combine.

Step 5

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally and check to ensure the beans are submerged in liquid; add a bit more water if necessary.

Step 6

Once the beans are tender and the broth has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 7

Remove and discard the bay leaf and ham hock. Shred any remaining meat from the ham hock and stir it back into the beans, if desired.

Step 8

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2999.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1835.0

Total Fat 76.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 26.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.1g
Cholesterol 317.5mg	0%
Sodium 12024.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 143.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 44.2g	0%
Total Sugars 11.1g
Protein 147.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 468.5mg	0%
Iron 20.0mg	0%
Potassium 4718.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.2%

Protein: 31.9%

Carbs: 31.0%