🥜 Southern Butter Beans with Ham Hocks (Creamy & Smoky)

A Southern Classic That Feels Like Home

You can tell a true Southern kitchen by the smell of something simmering low and slow on the stove. And nothing says comfort quite like a big pot of Southern Butter Beans with Ham Hocks.

These beans are the definition of cozy — buttery, smoky, and melt-in-your-mouth tender. The ham hocks infuse every spoonful with that rich, savory flavor, while the butter gives it that velvety finish we all crave.

This recipe is the kind of dish that brings back memories of family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and the quiet comfort of a home-cooked meal made with love. Serve them as a side with fried chicken or cornbread, or make them the main event over a bed of fluffy white rice. Either way, they’re pure deliciousness.

❤️ Why You’ll Love These Butter Beans

Creamy and Smoky: Slow simmering with ham hocks makes the beans velvety and full of depth.
Comfort Food Favorite: A Southern staple that’s good enough for Sunday dinner or any weeknight.
Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry ingredients create a filling and flavorful meal.
Make-Ahead Magic: Tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
Versatile: Enjoy as a side or pour over rice for a hearty main dish.

🚲 Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb dried large lima or butter beans
1 tbsp bacon grease or butter
½ cup diced onion
⅔ cup diced celery
¼ cup diced carrot
1 ½ cups chopped smoked ham
2 ham hocks
1 (32-ounce) carton chicken broth
4 cups water
2 bay leaves
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried thyme
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
4 tbsp butter
½ tsp Cajun or Creole seasoning

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Beans

Rinse and sort through the beans, removing any broken pieces or debris.

Place beans in a large stockpot and cover with 1 inch of water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Cover and let sit for 1 hour to soften.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat bacon grease or butter over medium heat.

Add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Ham and Broth

Add chopped smoked ham, ham hocks, chicken broth, water, bay leaves, garlic powder, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook gently for 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 4: Add the Beans

After the beans have soaked for an hour, drain and add them to the pot with the ham mixture. Stir in butter and Cajun seasoning.

Simmer uncovered for 60 to 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the liquid level gets too low and beans aren’t submerged, add more water.

The beans should become creamy, the broth thickened, and the ham falling off the bone.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the ham hocks, let cool slightly, then shred any meat from the bones. Add the shredded ham back to the pot and stir well.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm as a side or ladle over white rice for a hearty main dish.

💡 Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Use smoked ham hocks or turkey: Either adds that deep smoky flavor.
Don’t rush the simmer: Low and slow gives the best creamy texture.
Add water as needed: Keep beans submerged for even cooking.
For thicker beans: Mash a few against the pot and stir.
Make ahead: These beans taste even better the next day.

🍽️ Variations & Serving Ideas

Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and hocks, use smoked paprika for flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
With Greens: Stir in chopped collard or mustard greens at the end.
Full Meal: Serve over rice with skillet cornbread on the side.
Creamier Texture: Add an extra tablespoon of butter before serving.

🪂 Storage & Make-Ahead Notes

Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Freeze: Store cooled beans in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use canned butter beans?
A: Yes, but you’ll only need to simmer for about 20 minutes since they’re pre-cooked.

Q: Can I use smoked turkey instead of ham hocks?
A: Absolutely! It gives a lighter smoky flavor while keeping the dish hearty.

Q: Why are my beans still tough?
A: They may need more cooking time or weren’t soaked long enough. Continue simmering until tender.

Q: How can I make this creamier?
A: Mash a few beans against the side of the pot and stir — they’ll naturally thicken the broth.

🥰 Conclusion

These Southern Butter Beans with Ham Hocks are proof that the best meals come from simple ingredients and a little patience. Every bite is smoky, buttery, and comforting — the kind of dish that fills your home with warmth and your heart with nostalgia.

Make a pot this weekend, grab some cornbread, and enjoy a true Southern classic.

If you loved this recipe, leave a comment below and share it on Pinterest to spread the Southern love! 💚🥜