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Hot, steaming pinto beans served in a wooden bowl, perfect for a comforting meal or side dish. Freshly cooked with rich flavors, ideal for Southern cuisine.
Carolina Gomez

Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans (Copycat)

Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans bring Southern comfort to your table with tender beans in a savory, slow-cooked broth. Made with dried pinto beans, ham hocks, water, salt, and a touch of sugar, they simmer low and slow until creamy and flavorful. Budget-friendly, easy, and perfect as a side with cornbread or as a hearty main dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: southern american
Calories: 160
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups dried pinto beans sorted and rinsed
  • 1 pound ham hocks or country ham
  • 8 cups water plus more for soaking and as needed during cooking
  • 1 to 1½ teaspoons salt added after beans soften
  • 1 tablespoon sugar optional, for subtle sweetness
  • Optional: pinch of black pepper

Equipment

  • Large bowl (for soaking beans)
  • Large heavy pot or Dutch oven (at least 6 quarts) with tight-fitting lid
  • Wooden spoon
  • Tongs or two forks (for shredding ham)

Method
 

  1. Sort and rinse the dried pinto beans. Place in a large bowl and cover with water by at least 2 inches. Soak overnight (or use quick-soak method).
  2. The next day, drain and rinse the beans. Set aside.
  3. In a large pot, add the ham hocks and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 2 hours until the meat is tender.
  4. Remove the ham hocks. Shred the meat, discard bones and excess fat, and return the meat and broth to the pot.
  5. Add the soaked beans, 8 cups fresh water, salt, sugar (if using), and optional pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer.
  6. Cover and cook for 2–3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. Add hot water if needed to keep beans covered. Cook until beans are very tender and creamy.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning. For thicker beans, mash a small portion against the side of the pot. Serve hot with some cooking liquid spooned over the top.

Notes

Nutrition Facts: Per serving (about 1 cup):
Calories 140–170, Protein 10–12g, Carbohydrates 21–27g, Fat 2–3g, Fiber 7g (approximate values based on similar recipes and restaurant data; actual may vary with exact portions and ham used).