Pinto beans are a staple in Southern cuisine, and for good reason. They are a versatile and hearty legume that can be cooked in a variety of ways, making them a popular choice for many dishes. One of the most traditional and delicious ways to prepare pinto beans is on the stove top. This method allows the beans to simmer slowly, infusing them with flavor and creating a creamy texture. In this article, we will share with you a professional and well-organized introduction to cooking Southern pinto beans on the stove top, so you can enjoy this classic dish in the comfort of your own home.
No Southern meal is complete without a side of delicious pinto beans. These little legumes are a staple in Southern cooking, and for good reason. They are versatile, easy to cook, and packed with flavor. Whether you are having a backyard BBQ, a Sunday dinner with the family, or just craving some comfort food, pinto beans are the perfect addition to any meal. Here are 20 mouthwatering Southern pinto bean recipes to add to your repertoire.
2of 40
Southern Pinto Beans and Hamhocks Made in the Crock Pot
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Ham Hock, Yellow Onion, Minced Garlic
If you want to make a big batch of pinto beans without much effort, this crockpot recipe is for you. Simply add dried pinto beans, ham hocks, onions, garlic, and spices to your slow cooker and let it do all the work. The result is tender, flavorful beans that are perfect for serving with some cornbread on the side.
3of 40
The BEST Southern Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Chicken Stock, Water, Onion, Smoked Ham
It's a bold claim, but this recipe truly lives up to its name. These beans are slow cooked with bacon, onions, and spices, resulting in a rich and smoky flavor that will have you going back for seconds. And the best part? They are made in a pressure cooker, cutting down on cooking time and making them a perfect weeknight meal.
4of 40
Classic Southern Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Salt Pork, Medium Onion, Cayenne Pepper
For a classic and simple pinto bean recipe, look no further than this one. Made with just a few ingredients including pinto beans, bacon, and onions, these beans are hearty and satisfying. Serve them with some cornbread and you've got yourself a delicious Southern meal.
If you want to add a little protein to your pinto beans, this recipe is for you. Smoked sausage is added to the beans for extra flavor and heartiness. This dish is perfect for those chilly nights when you need some comfort food to warm you up.
6of 40
Southern Style Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Water, Salt, Pepper
This recipe keeps it simple, with just pinto beans, bacon, onion, and a few spices. But the result is anything but boring. The beans are tender and flavorful, making them the perfect side dish for any Southern meal.
7of 40
Smoky Southern Baked Beans
Main Ingredients: Ghee, Ground Beef, Medium Onion, Green Bell Pepper
If you're looking for a twist on traditional pinto beans, this recipe is for you. These beans are slow-cooked in the oven with bacon, onions, and a homemade smoky sauce. The result is a sweet and tangy dish that will have your taste buds singing.
For a simple and delicious side dish, look no further than these Southern beans. Made with pinto beans, bacon, and a few other ingredients, these beans are full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. Serve them alongside your favorite BBQ or grilled meats for a complete meal.
9of 40
Southern Crock Pot Pinto Beans With Ham Hocks
Main Ingredients: Dried Pinto Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Bay Leaves, Crushed
This slow cooker recipe takes pinto beans to the next level. The beans are slow cooked with ham hocks and a variety of spices, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Serve them over rice or with some cornbread for a complete meal.
This recipe is a Southern classic. Ham and beans are slow cooked together, creating a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for any time of year. Serve it with some cornbread or greens for a complete meal.
11of 40
Southern Cornbread Salad
Main Ingredients: Ranch, Sour Cream, Mayonnaise, Cornbread, Pinto Beans
If you want to get creative with your pinto beans, try this unique recipe. Pinto beans are mixed with cornbread, bacon, cheese, and a variety of other toppings to create a delicious and satisfying salad. It's perfect for a summer picnic or potluck.
12of 40
Crockpot Ham and Beans - A Southern comfort food staple
Main Ingredients: Ham Bone, Pinto Beans, Onion, Beans, Water, Salt, Pepper
If you're a fan of slow cooker meals, this recipe is for you. Pinto beans, ham, and a variety of spices are slow cooked together, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Serve it with some cornbread or a side of greens for a complete meal.
For a little Southwestern flair, try this recipe for Mexican pinto beans. These beans are cooked with a variety of spices, peppers, and onions for a flavorful and zesty dish. Serve them with some tacos or enchiladas for a delicious and easy meal.
14of 40
Texas Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Onion, Garlic Powder
Everything is bigger in Texas, including the flavor of these pinto beans. Slow cooked with bacon, onions, and a variety of spices, these beans are full of flavor and perfect for serving with some BBQ or grilled meats. Don't forget the cornbread on the side!
15of 40
Bourbon Peach BBQ Baked Beans.
Main Ingredients: Thick Cut Bacon, Cannellini Beans, Pinto Beans
If you want to take your pinto beans to the next level, try this recipe for Bourbon Peach BBQ Baked Beans. The addition of bourbon and peaches adds a unique twist to this classic Southern dish. Serve it at your next backyard BBQ for a dish that will impress your guests.
16of 40
The Secret to Perfect Old Fashioned Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Bean, Olive Oil, Small Yellow Onion, Garlic
If you want to know the secret to making the perfect old fashioned pinto beans, look no further than this recipe. The key is to soak the beans overnight before cooking them, resulting in tender and flavorful beans that are perfect for serving with some cornbread on the side.
17of 40
Southern Style Beans & Bacon
Main Ingredients: Dried Pinto Beans, Bacon, Yellow Onion, Chicken Stock
For a dish that is both comforting and delicious, try this recipe for Southern style beans and bacon. The beans are slow cooked with bacon, onions, and a variety of spices, resulting in a dish that is perfect for any occasion. Serve it with some cornbread or as a side dish at your next BBQ.
18of 40
Chipotle Chili with Jalapeño Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Ground Meat, Yellow Onion
For a little kick in your pinto beans, try this recipe for Chipotle Chili with Jalapeño Cornbread. The addition of chipotle peppers and jalapeños adds a spicy twist to this classic dish. Serve it with some cornbread for a complete meal.
19of 40
Slow Cooker Pinto Bean Stew With Corn Bread Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Onion, Red Pepper, Celery, Frozen Whole
This hearty and satisfying stew is the perfect comfort food on a chilly day. Pinto beans are slow cooked with a variety of vegetables and spices, and then topped with fluffy cornbread dumplings. It's a complete meal in one bowl.
20of 40
Pinto Bean Cakes
Main Ingredients: Butter, Red Bell Pepper, Green Onions, Pinto Beans
If you want to switch things up and try something different with your pinto beans, these bean cakes are a must-try. Pinto beans are mashed and mixed with a variety of spices and then formed into patties and fried until crispy. Serve them with a side of greens for a delicious and unique meal.
Southern pinto beans are a beloved staple of Southern cuisine. These hearty, flavorful beans are often seasoned with smoky, savory ingredients, making them the perfect side dish for any barbecue or family gathering. But did you know that pinto beans can also be the star ingredient in a variety of delicious recipes? From classic Southern pinto beans to unique twists on the traditional dish, here are 20 mouth-watering recipes featuring this versatile legume.
22of 40
Southern Pinto Beans and Hamhocks Made in the Crock Pot
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Ham Hock, Yellow Onion, Minced Garlic
One of the easiest ways to prepare Southern pinto beans is in the crock pot. Simply combine dried pinto beans, diced ham hocks, onions, and spices in your slow cooker and let it simmer for several hours. The result is tender, flavorful beans that are perfect for serving with cornbread or on top of rice. This recipe is a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to have a warm, comforting meal waiting for you at the end of a long day.
23of 40
The BEST Southern Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Chicken Stock, Water, Onion, Smoked Ham
For a classic and foolproof Southern pinto bean recipe, look no further than this one. These beans are slow-cooked with bacon, onion, and garlic for a rich and smoky flavor. A touch of molasses and brown sugar add a touch of sweetness, making these beans the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Serve them as a side dish or add some shredded pork for a hearty main course.
24of 40
Classic Southern Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Salt Pork, Medium Onion, Cayenne Pepper
If you're looking for a simpler version of Southern pinto beans, try this classic recipe. With just a few ingredients, including bacon, onion, and spices, these beans are full of flavor and can be made in just one pot. The key is to let them simmer for a few hours to allow the flavors to develop. The result is a delicious dish that is both easy and budget-friendly.
For a hearty and filling meal, try these Southern pinto beans with sausage. This recipe combines the smoky flavor of kielbasa with the creaminess of pinto beans, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Serve it with some crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal that the whole family will love.
26of 40
Southern Style Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Water, Salt, Pepper
If you're looking for a healthier take on Southern pinto beans, try this recipe. It uses lean smoked turkey instead of bacon or ham for a lower-fat option. The result is still a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for those watching their calorie intake. This recipe also includes a secret ingredient – a bay leaf – that adds an extra layer of flavor to the beans.
27of 40
Smoky Southern Baked Beans
Main Ingredients: Ghee, Ground Beef, Medium Onion, Green Bell Pepper
If you're in the mood for some smoky and cheesy goodness, try these Southern baked beans. This recipe combines pinto beans with bacon, cheddar cheese, and a touch of liquid smoke for a mouth-watering dish that is perfect for cookouts or potlucks. The addition of barbecue sauce adds a tangy and sweet element to these beans, making them a crowd-pleaser.
This simple and traditional Southern pinto bean recipe is a must-try. With just a handful of ingredients, including bacon, onion, and garlic powder, these beans are full of flavor and can be made in just 20 minutes. They are the perfect side dish for any Southern-inspired meal and are sure to become a family favorite.
29of 40
Southern Crock Pot Pinto Beans With Ham Hocks
Main Ingredients: Dried Pinto Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Bay Leaves, Crushed
This slow cooker recipe is a great option for those who want to enjoy the flavors of Southern pinto beans without having to constantly monitor a pot on the stove. With the addition of ham hocks, these beans are packed with flavor and the slow cooking process allows the meat to become fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve them with some cornbread for a delicious and comforting meal.
This recipe is a classic Southern dish that is often passed down through generations. It combines dried pinto beans, a ham hock, and a few simple seasonings for a dish that is full of nostalgia and flavor. The key to this recipe is letting the beans simmer for several hours to allow the flavors to fully develop. Serve it with some collard greens and cornbread for a truly Southern meal.
31of 40
Southern Cornbread Salad
Main Ingredients: Ranch, Sour Cream, Mayonnaise, Cornbread, Pinto Beans
If you want to take your love for Southern pinto beans to the next level, try this unique recipe for cornbread salad. This dish combines layers of crumbled cornbread, pinto beans, avocado, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a hit at potlucks and cookouts.
32of 40
Crockpot Ham and Beans - A Southern comfort food staple
Main Ingredients: Ham Bone, Pinto Beans, Onion, Beans, Water, Salt, Pepper
This recipe is a variation on the classic Southern pinto beans and ham dish. The use of a crock pot allows for a hands-off cooking experience, and the addition of onion powder, garlic powder, and chili powder adds a bit of spice to the dish. Serve it over rice for a filling and delicious meal that will warm you up on a cold day.
For a twist on traditional Southern pinto beans, try this Mexican-inspired recipe. These beans are simmered with salsa, cumin, and cilantro for a flavorful and slightly spicy dish. Serve it with some tortilla chips or as a side dish to your favorite Mexican entrees.
34of 40
Texas Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Onion, Garlic Powder
For a taste of Texas, try this recipe for pinto beans cooked with jalapeño peppers, bacon, and beer. The combination of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors makes these beans a delicious side dish for any barbecue or Tex-Mex meal. This recipe also includes instructions for making your own jalapeño cornbread, which is the perfect accompaniment to these beans.
35of 40
Bourbon Peach BBQ Baked Beans.
Main Ingredients: Thick Cut Bacon, Cannellini Beans, Pinto Beans
For a sweet and tangy take on Southern pinto beans, try this recipe. It combines the flavors of bourbon and peaches with traditional barbecue sauce for a unique and delicious dish. The addition of bacon and smoked sausage adds a savory element to balance out the sweetness. Serve it as a side dish or add some shredded chicken for a complete meal.
36of 40
The Secret to Perfect Old Fashioned Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Bean, Olive Oil, Small Yellow Onion, Garlic
If you want to achieve the perfect texture and flavor for your Southern pinto beans, try this recipe. The secret ingredient is cornmeal, which is added to the beans to thicken the sauce and give it a creamier texture. The result is a dish that is full of flavor and has a perfect balance of beans and sauce.
37of 40
Southern Style Beans & Bacon
Main Ingredients: Dried Pinto Beans, Bacon, Yellow Onion, Chicken Stock
This is a simple and delicious recipe for baked beans made with pinto beans and bacon. The combination of mustard, ketchup, and brown sugar creates a tangy and slightly sweet sauce that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the bacon. This dish is a great addition to any barbecue or potluck.
38of 40
Chipotle Chili with Jalapeño Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Ground Meat, Yellow Onion
This hearty and flavorful chili recipe includes pinto beans for a Southern twist. The addition of chipotle peppers and adobo sauce gives the chili a smoky and slightly spicy flavor. Serve it with a side of jalapeño cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
39of 40
Slow Cooker Pinto Bean Stew With Corn Bread Dumplings
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Onion, Red Pepper, Celery, Frozen Whole
This recipe is a unique twist on Southern pinto beans, combining them with a hearty stew and topped with cornbread dumplings. The combination of the savory stew and the slightly sweet cornbread creates a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for colder weather. This recipe is also vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet.
40of 40
Pinto Bean Cakes
Main Ingredients: Butter, Red Bell Pepper, Green Onions, Pinto Beans
If you want to try something different with your pinto beans, give this recipe a try. These bean cakes are made with mashed pinto beans, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices, then pan-fried until crispy. Serve them as a vegetarian main course or as a side dish to your favorite protein. The possibilities are endless with these versatile and delicious bean cakes.
The Importance of Using High-Quality Pinto Beans
When it comes to cooking any dish, using high-quality ingredients is essential. This is especially true for pinto beans, as the flavor and texture of the dish greatly depend on the beans used. When purchasing pinto beans, look for ones that are shiny, plump, and free from any cracks or blemishes. These are signs of freshness and will ensure that your beans cook evenly and retain their shape. Organic beans are always a great option, as they are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals, making them not only healthier but also more flavorful. Related main keywords: high-quality pinto beans, flavor and texture, cooking any dish, organic beans, harmful pesticides, healthier, more flavorful.
Soaking the Beans Overnight
While some recipes may call for boiling the beans directly, we highly recommend soaking them overnight before cooking. This step helps to soften the beans, reducing their cooking time and making them easier to digest. Simply place the pinto beans in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Soaking is also beneficial for removing any impurities and dirt that may be lingering on the beans, ensuring that your dish is clean and healthy. The next day, drain the beans and rinse them before cooking. This simple step will make a big difference in the final result of your dish. Featured keywords: soaking the beans, soften the beans, easier to digest, impurities, dirt, healthy, dish. Related main keywords: soaking overnight, removing impurities, final result.
Flavoring the Beans with Aromatics
To really elevate the flavor of your Southern pinto beans, it's important to add some aromatics while they cook. This can include finely chopped onions, garlic, bell peppers, and celery, commonly known as the "holy trinity" in Southern cooking. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the dish, creating a delicious base for the beans to simmer in. Other great additions include bay leaves, dried herbs, and even a dash of hot sauce for some heat. Be sure to sauté these aromatics in some oil before adding the beans to the pot, as this will help to release their flavors and enhance the overall taste of the dish. Featured keywords: aromatics, finely chopped, holy trinity, depth, complexity, delicious base, simmer, sauté, release flavors, enhance. Related main keywords: flavoring the beans, onions, garlic, bell peppers, celery, bay leaves, dried herbs, hot sauce.