My Grandma's Best Southern Ham and Beans Recipe

My Grandma's Best Southern Ham and Beans Recipe

8 servings
This is a delicious budget-friendly meal. And if you have a big crowd, this recipe is easily doubled so everyone can enjoy it!

Ingredients

  • 1 lbs of dry pinto beans

    or whatever bean you prefer

  • 4 or 5 smoked ham hocks

    or use diced leftover ham, about 1/2 - 3/4 lbs should do it

  • 1 large yellow onion

    chopped

  • 2 – 3 teaspoons of black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf

    optional

  • Salt to taste

Directions

  1. 1

    Wash the beans (you don’t have to soak them overnight with this method)

  2. 2

    Put the beans, ham hocks, chopped onion, pepper and bay leaf in a large stock pot and cover with water.

  3. 3

    Bring to boil and then turn down to a low simmer.

  4. 4

    Cover and let simmer low for several hours.

  5. 5

    Stir and check often – you may need to add a bit more water, but only enough to keep everything covered

  6. 6

    Beans will be tender and the sauce will thicken up.

  7. 7

    Break up the meat into the beans and serve in a bowl with warm corn bread.

My Grandma's Best Southern Ham and Beans Recipe

My Grandma's Best Southern Ham and Beans Recipe

190 min8 servings

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About this Recipe

Looking for that classic, comforting Southern flavor without breaking the bank? My Grandma's Best Southern Ham and Beans recipe brings generations of warmth and flavor right to your table, perfect for feeding a crowd.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe shines with its rich, savory depth, achieved by slow-cooking ham hocks or savory diced ham with hearty beans. It's a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that’s famously easy to double, ensuring there's enough deliciousness for everyone. The magic lies in minimal ingredients delivering maximum comfort.

What to Expect

You can anticipate a wonderfully tender, flavorful bean dish, permeated with the smoky, salty essence of ham. The texture will be creamy yet substantial, with a delightful peppery kick that adds warmth without overwhelming the palate. This is pure comfort food, designed to fill you up and leave you feeling nourished and content, reminiscent of Sunday dinners at Grandma's.

Customization & Variations

Feel free to experiment with your favorite type of dry bean; while pinto beans are traditional, you can use whatever bean you prefer. If smoked ham hocks aren't available, diced leftover ham works beautifully, offering a quicker preparation for the ham component. For a subtle aromatic touch, you can always include a bay leaf or omit it based on your preference.

This hearty dish is ideal for a comforting family dinner or when you need a substantial, budget-friendly meal for a larger gathering. Serve it simply with cornbread for a truly authentic Southern experience.

Frequently Asked Questions