As the first chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a hearty stew simmering away, warming the soul and the home. My recent discovery of the Instant Pot Ham and Beans has completely transformed my go-to comfort food routine. This miraculous dish makes it easy to fuse rich Southern flavors into a quick, budget-friendly meal that brings the family together around the table.
Gone are the days of laboring over an old recipe that takes hours; with just a few simple ingredients and the push of a button, you can whip up a deliciously thick soup that boasts tender beans and savory ham, all in no time at all. Perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this Easy Instant Pot Ham and Beans recipe is bound to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and create a bowl of pure, warm happiness!
Why is Instant Pot Ham and Beans a Must-Try?
Comforting and hearty, this dish is a true hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights.
Quick preparation means you can serve it on busy weekdays without compromising on flavor.
Budget-friendly ingredients ensure that feeding your family doesn’t break the bank.
Versatility allows for endless variations; you can swap ham hock for leftover holiday ham or try different spices to suit your taste.
Don’t forget to serve it with cornbread for that perfect Southern touch! This dish will quickly become a staple in your home, so be sure to check out other comforting recipes that warm the soul.
Instant Pot Ham and Beans Ingredients
• Prepare to create a delicious bowl of Instant Pot Ham and Beans with these essential ingredients!
For the Soup
- Smoked Ham Hock – Adds rich, smoky flavor; substitute with diced leftover ham for a twist.
- Dry Great Northern Beans – The main protein source; no soaking needed—just rinse and sort!
- Large Onion – Offers sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions work best.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh cloves are recommended, but garlic powder can do in a pinch.
- Chicken Broth or Stock – Provides a savory base; vegetable stock can keep it vegetarian-friendly.
- Water – Adjusts consistency; use more broth for an extra flavorful dish.
- Bay Leaves – Optional; adds an aromatic touch; omit if you don’t have any on hand.
- Dried Thyme – Optional; for earthy notes; can be substituted with Italian seasoning if preferred.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste after cooking.
- Black Pepper – Adds seasoning; freshly ground is the tastiest option.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing the veggies; any neutral oil will work as a substitute.
Now that you have the rundown on the ingredients, get ready to embrace the wonderful world of Instant Pot cooking!
How to Make Instant Pot Ham and Beans
-
Rinse and Sort: Start by rinsing the dry great northern beans under cold water. Make sure to sort them, discarding any debris or discolored beans to ensure a clean start.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: In your Instant Pot, set it to “Sauté” mode. Heat a drizzle of olive oil and add the diced onion. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
-
Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed beans, smoked ham hock, kosher salt, black pepper, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water, stirring everything well to combine.
-
Cook Under Pressure: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 40 minutes. The rich aromas will start wafting through your kitchen!
-
Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 20 minutes. Carefully release any remaining steam before opening the lid.
-
Shred the Ham: Remove the ham hock from the pot and set it on a cutting board. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat off the bone, discarding any fat. Return the shredded ham back into the pot and stir to combine.
-
Taste and Adjust: Give your hearty soup a taste, then adjust the seasoning as needed. Now it’s ready to serve hot!
Optional: Serve with a side of cornbread for an extra cozy meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Ham and Beans
-
Natural Release: Allowing for natural pressure release is crucial; it helps achieve tender beans without excess mushiness.
-
Season Smart: Taste and adjust salt after cooking; the ham hock can introduce a lot of saltiness, so go easy at first.
-
Flavor Up: Enhance your Instant Pot Ham and Beans with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added depth.
-
Texture Check: For a creamier consistency, you can blend a small batch of the beans with a bit of broth before combining them back with the soup.
-
Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Ham and Beans
-
Fridge: Store leftover Instant Pot Ham and Beans in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors intact while maintaining freshness.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.
-
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup and maintain moisture.
-
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Ham and Beans are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can rinse and sort the dry great northern beans up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a clean, ready-to-cook ingredient. Additionally, you can chop the onion and garlic and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepared vegetables, combine them with the rinsed beans, ham hock, and other ingredients in the Instant Pot, and follow the cooking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy a warm, hearty dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights, just as delicious as if you made it from scratch!
Instant Pot Ham and Beans Variations
Feel free to bring your creativity to the table with these exciting twists on a comforting classic!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of chicken stock for a creamy texture and subtle sweetness without any dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a delightful heat that warms you from the inside out. Adjust to your heat preference!
- Vegetarian: Replace the ham hock with smoked tempeh or a plant-based sausage to create a hearty veggie version without losing the smoky flavor.
- Bean Blend: Swap out great northern beans for black beans or pinto beans for a different taste and texture. Each type adds its unique character!
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can elevate the aroma and freshness. Stir in chopped parsley just before serving for a vibrant touch.
- Creamy Delight: For an even creamier finish, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot. It adds richness that makes each spoonful irresistible.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in diced carrots or celery during the sautéing stage for added sweetness and texture. It’s an easy way to sneak in more nutrition.
- Citrus Zest: Finish off the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest. The citrus brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing twist!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Ham and Beans?
Cozy up your dining experience with perfect pairings that enhance each bite of your hearty dish.
-
Cornbread: A classic Southern staple that adds a sweet, buttery contrast to the savory ham and beans. Its crumbly texture perfectly complements the creamy soup.
-
Coleslaw: This crunchy side provides a refreshing, tangy balance, cutting through the richness while adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
-
Green Salad: A light, mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette brings a zesty brightness to the table, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
-
Pickled Vegetables: The tangy bite of pickles or pickled onions offers a vibrant, uplifting contrast that brightens up the comforting flavors of the ham and beans.
-
Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are a cozy companion, perfect for soaking up the savory broth and adding a delicious carb element to your meal.
-
Buttermilk Pancakes: For a unique twist, fluffy pancakes served with maple syrup create a delightful sweet contrast, elevating the comfort factor on your table.
-
Sweet Tea: This classic Southern beverage provides a refreshing, slightly sweet drink that pairs beautifully with the savory nature of your meal.
-
Apple Pie: For dessert, a warm slice of apple pie offers a comforting, sweet finish that rounds out the meal with a hint of nostalgia and warmth.
Instant Pot Ham and Beans Recipe FAQs
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
I recommend using a smoked ham hock as it adds a deep, rich flavor to the soup. If you have leftover holiday ham, that works wonderfully too—just cut it into chunks and follow the same cooking instructions, though you might reduce the seasoning since the meat is already salty.
How should I store leftover Instant Pot Ham and Beans?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps your soup fresh, ready to be enjoyed again! When you’re ready to reheat, just give it a gentle stir and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Ham and Beans?
Absolutely! For freezing, let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat with a splash of water or broth to regain its creamy consistency.
What should I do if the beans aren’t tender after cooking?
If you find that your beans are not tender enough after the initial cooking time, don’t worry! Simply seal the Instant Pot again and cook on high pressure for an additional 5-10 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release once more. The natural steam helps soften the beans without making them mushy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re cooking for anyone with dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ham hock with smoked tempeh or mushrooms, and using vegetable stock instead of chicken broth. Always check for allergens in broths and seasonings used to ensure a safe meal for everyone.
What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility! You can swap out the dry beans for canned beans for a quicker option (reduce cooking time to 10-15 minutes) or add in diced vegetables like carrots and celery for extra nutrients. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices too—adding smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can give your soup a delightful kick!
Enjoy this hearty meal with everyone at your table, and feel free to come back for more questions!
Savory Instant Pot Ham and Beans for Cozy Family Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse and Sort: Start by rinsing the dry great northern beans under cold water. Make sure to sort them, discarding any debris or discolored beans to ensure a clean start.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In your Instant Pot, set it to 'Sauté' mode. Heat a drizzle of olive oil and add the diced onion. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed beans, smoked ham hock, kosher salt, black pepper, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water, stirring everything well to combine.
- Cook Under Pressure: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 40 minutes.
- Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 20 minutes. Carefully release any remaining steam before opening the lid.
- Shred the Ham: Remove the ham hock from the pot and set it on a cutting board. Shred the meat off the bone, discarding any fat. Return the shredded ham back into the pot and stir to combine.
- Taste and Adjust: Give your hearty soup a taste, then adjust the seasoning as needed. Now it's ready to serve hot!