red beans and ham recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best red beans and ham recipe

I’ve been making this red beans and ham recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic Southern dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

The combination of tender red beans, smoky ham, and aromatic spices is just perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I love that it’s a one-pot meal, so I can just throw everything in the pot and let it simmer away while I focus on other things.

My kids always ask for seconds, and my husband requests it for his birthday every year. It’s also a great way to get in some fiber and protein with the beans and ham.

Plus, it’s super easy to make in large quantities, so it’s perfect for big family gatherings or potlucks. The best part is that it freezes beautifully, so I can make a big batch and stash it away for later.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen like it has in mine. The rich flavors and comforting textures will transport you to the warm kitchens of the South, where this dish originated.

It’s truly a taste of home.

Red Beans and Ham

4.8 from 754 votes

A hearty and flavorful dish of tender red beans simmered with smoky ham, onions, and spices. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs wonderfully with rice or crusty bread.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans

1 pound dried red beans, soaked overnight and drained
8 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Ham

1 pound smoked ham hock or ham bone with meat
1 cup diced cooked ham (optional)

For Serving

Cooked white rice
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the soaked and drained red beans in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2Add the water or broth, ham hock, diced onion, minced garlic, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using.
3Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently.
4Cover the pot and let the beans cook for 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5The beans should be tender but not mushy, and the ham meat should be falling off the bone.
6If using a ham bone, remove it and shred the meat, discarding the bone and any gristle.
7Taste the beans and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
8If you want a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with the wooden spoon.
9Stir in the diced cooked ham if using, and let it heat through for about 5 minutes.
10Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
11Serve the red beans and ham over steamed white rice, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
12The dish should be thick, savory, and aromatic with a gentle heat.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For a quicker version, use canned red beans (rinsed and drained) and reduce the simmering time to about 30 minutes. Adjust the cayenne to your preferred spice level.

Watch Video Of How Red Beans and Ham Works

Red beans and ham is a recipe I always come back to because it is easy, affordable, and feeds a crowd. The leftovers taste even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld.

You can store the cooked beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, warm them on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

I like to serve it over rice with a sprinkle of green onions and a side of cornbread. This dish works for a casual family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday meal.

It is one of those recipes that never fails and always leaves people asking for seconds.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Red Beans and Ham

Q: What type of beans should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using red kidney beans or pinto beans for this recipe, as they hold their shape well and have a mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the ham.

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