Easy Pinto Beans with Ham

Here in Texas, we take our beans seriously—and these outhern-style Easy Pinto Beans with Ham are the real deal. They’re the perfect way to use up a leftover ham bone, which adds a rich, smoky depth of flavor along with tender bits of ham that make each bite hearty and satisfying.

If you've ever tried making pinto beans that turned out tough or bland, don't worry—this recipe changes everything. With just the right blend of spices and a slow simmer, these ham and beans come out perfectly seasoned, tender, and full of comforting flavor every single time. Whether you're serving them as a main dish or a side, this easy pinto bean recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again.

If you ever have a left over ham bone from a holiday you HAVE to make a pot of classic southern pinto beans. Hearty and nutritious!

Needing a ham recipe? Try this Baked Ham-its delicious every time!

Ingredients

• dry pinto beans
• garlic
• onion
• ham bone with pieces of ham
• chili powder
• cumin
• paprika
• cayenne
• bay leaves
• salt and pepper

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Saute onions and garlic in bacon grease. Add dry seasonings and stir until fragrant. Add washed and sorted beans. Stir until well coated. Place ham bone and all those glorious pieces of ham in to the pot and cover with water. Simmer until tender!

Equipment

Using a good heavy bottom pot is key. It distributes the heat more effectively and no scorching. Here is an affiliate link to a pot I really like!

Storage

Pinto beans store amazingly well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Depending on your ham bone as well. A ham stays fresh in the fridge for 3-5 days. So if you didn't freeze that bone the same day you cooked it, just adjust your storage accordingly.

Desserts

Looking for a dessert for after your yummy beans?? Try one of these!

Print Recipe

Easy Pinto Beans with Ham

use up your left over ham! This is classic southern dish with yummy ham and lots of spices!

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Keyword: beans and ham, dried beans, food storage, ham, ham bone, how to, pinto beans

Servings: 8

Author: Misty Tannery

Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons fat-bacon grease oil, butter
• 1 pound pinto beans-washed and soaked either overnight or quick soak method
• 1 Tablespoon plus 1 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne
• One ham bone plus cut up pieces of ham about 1 cup
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ medium onion diced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

• Heat your choice of fat over medium high. Add chopped onion and sauté until turning translucent. Add garlic for a few seconds until aromatic. Add seasonings and stir until aromatic. Add washed, soaked and rinsed beans and stir well until covered in seasonings. Add a bit of water to incorporate all seasonings. Add ham bone and ham pieces. Add bay leaves, salt and pepper - cover and bring to a light boil. Turn down to medium low and cover. Simmer until tender. About 2 ½ - 3 hours