Easy To Make Southern Style Pinto Beans Recipe

For a classic Southern comfort dish, these slow-cooked pinto beans with smoked turkey pack a ton of rich, savory yumminess in each and every bite. Plus, they're so, so easy to make. Less than a handful of steps are all you have to follow to make 'em, and they come together in practically n time. Not to mention, they're a hit with even the pickest of eaters - even my kids love these beans.

My Take on Southern Style Pinto Beans

I grew up loving pinto beans, especially cooked with a smoked turkey wing for that deep, smoky flavor.

This recipe is one of my go-to dishes when I want something filling and simple. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen as they simmer on the stove is so comforting. Oh, and the best part? It only takes a few ingredients to make this one, but it tastes like you’ve put in hours of effort.

Ingredients for Southern Style Pinto Beans

• ½ lb dry pinto beans, soaked overnight
• 1 smoked turkey wing
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups water
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Southern Style Pinto Beans

I mentioned this once already, but just 4 steps are all you have to follow to make these smoky pinto beans.

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a large pot, add soaked pinto beans, smoked turkey wing, chicken broth, water, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Simmer Until Tender

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 3 hours until the beans are tender, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Shredded Turkey

Remove the turkey wing, shred the meat off the bone, and return it to the pot. Stir everything together, and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the beans into bowls and enjoy them as a hearty main or a flavorful side dish!

My Expert Tips To Making The Best Southern Pinto Beans

• Soak the beans overnight: Soaking the beans overnight reduces the cooking time and helps them cook more evenly.
• Adjust salt: Smoked turkey can add saltiness, so check and adjust the seasoning at the end.
• Add a kick: If you enjoy heat, a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeño can spice things up. I like to go with a few jalapenos when I make them for me and my wife.

FAQ's About This Recipe

Can I use another type of smoked meat?

Absolutely! Smoked ham hocks or bacon work well for that rich, smoky flavor you know and love in southern style pinto beans.

Can I make pinto beans in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Just cook the beans on low for 6-8 hours or until they're tender.

Do I have to soak the beans overnight?

Soaking isn’t required, but it reduces cooking time and helps the beans cook evenly, so I highly recommend it.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, pinto beans freeze well! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What goes well with southern pinto beans?

Here are 5 things that go well with them:

1. Cornbread: There’s just something about cornbread that takes me right back to my grandma’s kitchen. The slightly sweet, crumbly texture pairs so well with creamy pinto beans. I love how it soaks up all that savory broth—there’s nothing like scooping up a spoonful of beans with a piece of buttery, golden cornbread. Sometimes, I’ll even add jalapeños to the cornbread for a bit of a kick. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

2. Collard Greens: When I’m looking to balance out the richness of the beans, collard greens are my go-to. I always cook them low and slow with a bit of smoked meat, like ham hocks or bacon, which brings a smoky, slightly bitter flavor that’s the perfect counterpoint to the creamy pinto beans. Plus, it just feels like a proper Southern meal when you’ve got greens on your plate.

3. Fried Chicken: If you want to turn dinner into something really special, add some crispy fried chicken to the mix. There’s just something magical about that crunchy coating against the smooth texture of pinto beans. Whenever I serve this combo, it always gets rave reviews from friends and family—it’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite.

4. White Rice: For those days when I want something simple but hearty, I’ll serve my pinto beans over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice soaks up all those smoky, savory flavors, turning it into a dish that’s both comforting and filling. Sometimes, if I’m feeling a bit adventurous, I’ll swap in brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, but either way, it’s a classic combo that never disappoints.

5. Pickled Jalapeños: When I’m craving a little kick, I’ll throw some pickled jalapeños on the side. The tangy, spicy bite cuts right through the rich, smoky flavor of the beans, brightening up each bite. If I’m out of pickled jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce works just as well—it’s a quick way to add that extra zing that makes the meal pop.

Final Thoughts

These Southern-style pinto beans are a comforting classic, perfect for any time of year.

With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy this hearty dish packed with flavor and warmth. As always, if you give this one a shot let me know how it goes for ya in the comments below.

More Bean Recipes To Try Next

• Grandma Brown's baked beans
• Popeye's red beans and rice
• Baked beans with bacon
• Crack green beans
• Great Northern beans recipe