Go Back
Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans Recipe

Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans Recipe

Recipes Walay
This Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans recipe captures the same savory, slow-cooked taste you'd expect from a classic Southern kitchen. 
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 6
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Large stock pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Colander or mesh strainer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups dried pinto beans
  • 6 cups water plus more for soaking
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 smoked ham hock or 4 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 1 bay leaf
  • A splash of apple cider vinegar optional, enhances flavor

Instructions
 

  • Soak the Beans Rinse and sort your pinto beans to remove any debris. Soak them in a large bowl with enough water to cover by 2 inches. Let them sit overnight or for at least 8 hours.
  • Cook the Aromatics: In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced onion with the bacon or ham hock over medium heat until the onion softens and the meat releases its fat (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Add the Beans and Water: Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot. Pour in 6 cups of fresh water and stir to combine.
  • Season and Simmer: Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.
  • Final Touches: Remove the bay leaf and ham hock (shred any meat and return it to the pot). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a subtle tangy depth.

Notes

  • Don’t skip the soak – Soaking beans shortens the cooking time and improves digestion.
  • Use a smoked ham hock – It’s key to replicating that authentic Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans recipe flavor.
  • Low and slow is best – Simmering over low heat allows flavors to develop fully.
  • Don’t over-salt early – Beans can toughen if salted too soon; wait until midway through cooking.
  • Stir occasionally – Prevent beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Keyword Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans Recipe