Cracker Barrel’s pinto beans are a comforting Southern classic that’s easy to recreate at home. Known for their rich flavor and tender texture, these beans capture the heart of traditional country cooking. Whether you’re craving a hearty side dish or a satisfying main, this recipe brings that authentic taste straight to your kitchen.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create layers of smoky, savory goodness. With a few pantry staples and a bit of patience, you can enjoy that slow-cooked flavor anytime. Let’s dive into making Cracker Barrel-style pinto beans that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients For Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans
To create authentic Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans with the perfect balance of flavor and texture, we focus on fresh and pantry staples that bring out that classic smoky and savory profile. Below, we’ve broken down the essential ingredients into categories for clarity and ease.
Pinto Beans
We start with the star of the dish:
- 1 pound dried pinto beans – rinsed and picked over to remove debris
- Alternatively, you can use canned pinto beans (about 3 cups), but dried beans offer the best texture and flavor infusion
Meat and Seasonings
These ingredients provide the rich, smoky backbone synonymous with Cracker Barrel’s recipe:
- 4 ounces smoked bacon – diced, to render flavorful fat
- 1 smoked ham hock or 1 cup diced smoked ham – imparts deep, smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – enhances the smoky aroma
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste, added later to avoid toughening beans)
Vegetables and Aromatics
Fresh vegetables and aromatics build layers of flavor that elevate the beans:
- 1 medium yellow onion – finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic – minced
- 1 green bell pepper – diced (optional for subtle sweetness and texture)
Liquids and Miscellaneous
To perfectly cook and season the beans, these liquids and extras are critical:
- 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth – for cooking and flavor
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – added at the end to brighten flavor and tenderize beans
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional) – balances smoky and savory notes with a hint of sweetness
| Ingredient Category | Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Pinto Beans | Dried pinto beans | 1 pound |
| Canned pinto beans (optional) | 3 cups | |
| Meat and Seasonings | Smoked bacon (diced) | 4 ounces |
| Smoked ham hock or diced smoked ham | 1 hock or 1 cup | |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon | |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | |
| Salt (added late) | 1 teaspoon | |
| Vegetables and Aromatics | Yellow onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | |
| Green bell pepper (diced, optional) | 1 | |
| Liquids and Miscellaneous | Water or low-sodium chicken broth | 6 cups |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon | |
| Brown sugar (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Recipe for Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans perfectly, having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and brings out the authentic flavors we’ve come to love.
Essential Cookware and Utensils
- Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot or Dutch Oven
We recommend using a sturdy 6 to 8-quart pot. This provides even heat distribution, preventing the beans from sticking or burning during the slow simmer.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
For stirring and gently folding ingredients without damaging the beans or scratching your pot.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor and texture for the beans every time.
- Colander or Fine Mesh Sieve
Use this for rinsing the dried pinto beans thoroughly before cooking to remove dirt and debris.
- Knife and Cutting Board
Essential for dicing the smoked bacon, ham, onion, and mincing garlic to add layers of flavor.
- Ladle
For serving the beans with their savory broth.
Optional Equipment for Enhanced Cooking
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Slow Cooker or Crockpot | For hands-off cooking over several hours |
| Instant-Read Thermometer | To check internal temperature for safety |
| Garlic Press | For finely minced garlic, enhancing flavors |
Pro Tip: Using a Dutch oven elevates the texture and flavor development in our Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans by maintaining consistent heat and moisture throughout the cooking process.
With all these tools on hand, we’re ready to bring out the authentic, smoky essence of our homemade Cracker Barrel pinto beans.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking our Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans it’s essential to complete some key prep steps. Proper preparation ensures our beans cook evenly and our flavors develop fully.
Soaking The Beans
Soaking dried pinto beans is a crucial step for tender results and reduced cooking time. Here’s how we do it:
- Sort and Rinse: Spread 1 pound of dried pinto beans on a clean surface. Pick out any debris or damaged beans. Then rinse thoroughly under cold water using a colander.
- Soak Options:
- Overnight Soak: Place rinsed beans in a large bowl. Cover with 3-4 inches of cold water. Let soak for 8-12 hours or overnight at room temperature.
- Quick Soak: Put rinsed beans in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and let boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand 1 hour.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the beans again with cold water. This removes excess starch and helps prevent gas.
| Soaking Method | Water Amount | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overnight Soak | 3-4 inches above beans | 8-12 hours | Best for flavor & texture |
| Quick Soak | Enough to cover | 2 minutes boil + 1 hour soak | Saves time, slightly less tender |
Preparing The Meat And Vegetables
The smoky, savory essence of Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans comes from carefully prepared meat and fresh vegetables. Here’s how we get them ready:
- Meat:
- Cut 4 ounces of smoked bacon into small pieces. This releases fat and infuses the beans with smoky flavor.
- If using a smoked ham hock, rinse it briefly under cold water and pat dry to remove any excess salt.
- For diced smoked ham, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Vegetables:
- Peel and dice 1 medium yellow onion finely.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic to release their aromatic oils.
- Optionally, dice ½ cup of green bell pepper for added sweetness and depth.
Having our meat and vegetables prepped beforehand allows us to build layers of flavor as soon as we start cooking, giving our beans that authentic Cracker Barrel taste we love.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to make Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans with authentic Southern flavor and tender texture.
Initial Bean Cooking
- Drain and rinse the soaked pinto beans thoroughly under cold running water using a colander.
- Add the beans to a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven.
- Pour in 6 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth to cover the beans generously.
- Bring the liquid to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the beans simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Skim any foam or impurities from the surface with a spoon to keep the broth clear.
- Drain the beans again and discard the soaking liquid if you used an overnight soak. (If you quick-soaked, you can skip this step for flavor retention.)
- Return the beans to the pot and add fresh liquid to cover them by about 2 inches.
Adding Meat And Seasonings
- Sear the diced smoked bacon (4 ounces) over medium heat in the same pot until it releases fat and becomes slightly crisp.
- Add the smoked ham hock or diced smoked ham and sauté for 2 minutes to infuse the fat with smoky flavor.
- Stir in the diced medium yellow onion, minced garlic, and optional diced green bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and aromatic.
- Sprinkle in the seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust later to taste)
- Mix everything thoroughly to coat the vegetables and meat evenly with the spices.
- Add the beans back to the pot if removed.
- Pour in additional water or broth to cover the mixture by 1-2 inches.
Simmering The Beans
- Bring the pot contents to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cover the pot loosely with a lid, allowing some steam to escape and prevent over-boiling.
- Let the beans cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon to avoid sticking and promote even cooking.
- About 15 minutes before finishing, stir in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to brighten flavors and a tablespoon of brown sugar if using, to balance the smoky and savory notes.
- Check the beans periodically for tenderness — they should be soft but hold their shape.
- Adjust salt and pepper as needed at the end.
- Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and stir it back into the beans for extra richness.
| Step | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial simmer | 10 minutes | Remove foam for clarity |
| Meat and veggies sauté | 5-7 minutes | Develop smoky, aromatic base |
| Final simmer | 90-120 minutes | Cook low and slow for tender, flavorful beans |
| Flavor adjustment | Last 15 minutes | Vinegar and sugar brighten and balance |
This method guarantees authentic Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans that are richly smoky, hearty, and irresistibly delicious.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Recipe for Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans, pairing them with classic Southern sides and complementary dishes enhances the overall meal experience. Here are our favorite serving ideas to showcase the rich, smoky flavor and tender texture of these beans.
Classic Southern Plate Pairings
Serve the beans alongside these traditional favorites for a hearty, satisfying meal:
- Cornbread: Warm, buttery cornbread balances the smoky beans perfectly. Opt for a moist skillet cornbread or classic Southern-style muffins.
- Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken provides a contrasting crunch that complements the creamy beans.
- Collard Greens or Turnip Greens: Their slight bitterness and vinegar notes brighten the meal and add texture variety.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a neutral base that lets the beans shine with their bold seasoning.
Topping and Garnish Ideas
Elevate the beans’ flavor and presentation with these options:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a bright herbal note.
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt to add cool creaminess.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese melted over the top for richness.
- Thinly sliced green onions or red onions for a little crunch and sharpness.
Suggested Meal Combinations
| Dish Component | Description | Serving Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans | Smoky tender beans simmered with ham and bacon | Serve hot with a drizzle of cooking liquid |
| Cornbread | Slightly sweet, dense bread with a golden crust | Brush with melted butter before serving |
| Collard Greens | Slow-cooked greens seasoned with smoked meat | Finish with a splash of apple cider vinegar |
| Fried Chicken | Crispy, golden, and juicy | Serve alongside beans for a classic combo |
Beverage Pairings
- Sweet iced tea or lemonade complements the hearty and smoky flavors beautifully.
- For a more elevated touch, try a chilled light beer or a glass of fruity red wine like Zinfandel.
By pairing our Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans with these sides and garnishes, we create a meal bursting with layered flavors and textures that satisfy every craving for authentic Southern comfort food.
Storage And Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating ensure our Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans maintain their rich flavor and tender texture, even days after cooking.
Storing Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans
- Allow the beans to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Transfer the beans into an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent contamination.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days to maintain optimal freshness.
- For longer storage, freeze the beans in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | 4 to 5 days | Best for quick consumption |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe container | Up to 3 months | Freeze in portions for convenience |
Reheating Instructions
To reheat our Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans without losing their signature flavor and creamy texture, follow these steps:
- Stovetop Method (Recommended):
- Pour the beans into a saucepan.
- Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency if necessary.
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Warm for 5 to 10 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave Method:
- Place beans in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap.
- Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
- Slow Cooker:
- For a hands-off approach, transfer the beans to a slow cooker.
- Set to low and heat for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Important Tips for Best Results
- Avoid reheating beans multiple times to prevent texture breakdown and food safety risks.
- Add a touch of fresh seasoning or a splash of apple cider vinegar after reheating to brighten flavors.
- If beans thicken too much upon cooling, stir in a bit of warm water or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
By following these storage and reheating guidelines, we keep our Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans tasting just as delicious as when freshly made—smoky, tender, and full of Southern comfort.
Conclusion
Making Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans at home brings a taste of Southern comfort right to our kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can enjoy a dish that’s both hearty and full of rich, smoky flavor. Whether served alongside classic sides or topped with fresh garnishes, these beans are sure to become a favorite in our meal rotation.
Taking the time to prep properly and follow the cooking process ensures every bite is tender and flavorful. Plus, knowing how to store and reheat them means we can savor this delicious recipe anytime. Let’s get cooking and bring a little Southern charm to our table!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Cracker Barrel-style pinto beans?
You need dried pinto beans, smoked bacon, smoked ham or ham hock, seasonings (smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt), yellow onion, garlic, water or chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and optional brown sugar and green bell pepper.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried pinto beans?
Yes, canned beans can be used as a shortcut, but dried beans provide better flavor and texture after proper soaking and slow cooking.
What’s the best pot to cook these pinto beans?
A large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is best for even heat distribution and flavor development while simmering the beans.
How should I soak dried pinto beans before cooking?
Soak them overnight in cold water for the best texture or use a quick soak method by boiling beans for a few minutes and then letting them sit for an hour.
How long do you simmer the pinto beans?
Simmer the beans for 1.5 to 2 hours until they are tender and infused with smoky flavors from the meat and seasonings.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Cracker Barrel pinto beans?
Classic Southern sides like cornbread, fried chicken, collard greens, and mashed potatoes pair beautifully with these beans.
How do I store and reheat leftover pinto beans?
Cool completely, refrigerate in an airtight container for 4-5 days, or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop for best flavor and texture.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, using a slow cooker is a convenient option that allows for slow, hands-off cooking, helping to develop rich flavors over time.
Should I add vinegar or sugar to the beans?
Yes, a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar brightens the flavor, and an optional tablespoon of brown sugar helps balance the smoky and savory notes.
What toppings work well with Cracker Barrel pinto beans?
Toppings like fresh herbs, sour cream, and shredded cheese add extra flavor and make the dish even more satisfying.