Easy to prepare, these Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans are simmered with onions, garlic, and savory ham hock or bacon for a comforting Southern-style dish.

I love making this Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans at home; it’s comforting and reminiscent of the hearty dishes I enjoy at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store. This recipe is made with simple ingredients like dried pinto beans, onions, garlic, and optional ham hock or bacon, simmered to perfection in a savory broth.

This recipe for Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans is customizable; you can adjust the seasonings to your taste and add ingredients like cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor. It’s versatile enough to serve as a side dish alongside Southern classics like cornbread or as a main dish with rice.

The beans turn out super delicious and creamy, with flavors that develop beautifully as they simmer. It’s a comforting dish that warms you up and satisfies you with every bite, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends.

What is Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans?

Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans refer to a dish typically served at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store restaurants. These beans are made from dried pinto beans that are soaked overnight, then simmered with onions, garlic, and often with ham hock or bacon for added flavor. They are seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. The result is a hearty and savory dish with a creamy texture, often served as a side dish alongside Southern-style meals like fried chicken, cornbread, or collard greens.

How to make Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried pinto beans
• 6 cups water
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ham hock or 1/2 pound bacon, chopped (optional for flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

Prepare the Beans:

• Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water, then place them in a large bowl. Cover the beans with water and let them soak overnight (or at least 8 hours). Drain and rinse before using.

Cooking the Beans:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

• If using, add the ham hock or chopped bacon to the pot. Cook until the bacon is slightly crispy or the ham hock begins to brown.

• Add the drained pinto beans to the pot, along with 6 cups of water.

• Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer, uncovered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

• After about 1.5 hours, start checking the beans for tenderness. They should be soft but not mushy. If needed, continue cooking until they reach the desired texture.

Seasoning:

• Once the beans are cooked to your liking, season them with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Tips

• For richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of liquid smoke along with the seasoning. These ingredients can deepen the smoky and savory profile of the beans.

• If you prefer a creamier texture, mash some of the cooked beans against the side of the pot with a spoon before serving. This will thicken the broth naturally and add a smoother consistency.

• To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the ham hock or bacon. Instead, you can add a couple of tablespoons of vegetable bouillon or a vegetable stock cube to enhance the savory flavor.

• Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions and garlic for added texture and flavor. These vegetables can complement the beans well and provide more depth to the dish.

What to pair with Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans

Personally, I’d rather have a slice of warm, buttery cornbread alongside a bowl of Cracker Barrel pinto beans. The cornbread’s slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture complement the beans perfectly, soaking up their savory broth. Collard greens cooked with bacon are also a favorite of mine to serve alongside, adding a smoky richness that enhances the overall meal.

But if you like something more substantial, grilled or smoked sausage is a fantastic choice. Its bold flavors and juicy bite make for a satisfying pairing with the creamy beans. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for a lighter option, a crisp coleslaw with a tangy dressing and fresh vegetables can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty beans.

How many calories are in Cracker Barrel Pinto Peans?

The calorie count for Cracker Barrel pinto beans can vary slightly depending on the specific preparation and serving size. However, generally speaking, a 1-cup serving of cooked pinto beans typically contains around 245-250 calories. This estimation includes the beans cooked in a basic manner without additional fats or meats.

How to store

To store cooked Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans, begin by allowing them to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the beans into an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag. Refrigerate the beans promptly and use them within 4-5 days for the best quality.

When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the beans on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating can help maintain moisture and prevent sticking.

FAQ

How do you cook Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans?

To cook Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans, start by soaking dried pinto beans overnight. Then, simmer them with onions, garlic, and optionally ham hock or bacon until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices before serving.

Can you substitute canned pinto beans for dried beans?

Yes, you can substitute canned pinto beans for convenience. Drain and rinse them before adding to the recipe, adjusting the cooking time since canned beans are already cooked.

How long should you soak dried Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans?

It’s recommended to soak dried Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans overnight in water. This helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time.

Are Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans vegetarian?

They can be made vegetarian by omitting ham hock or bacon and using vegetable broth or bouillon for flavor instead.

What spices can you add to Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans for extra flavor?

Besides salt and pepper, you can add cumin, paprika, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce for additional flavor and heat.