Instant Pot Pinto Beans and Ham Recipe

Instant Pot Pinto Beans and Ham Recipe. Make this classic comfort food recipe in half the time in your pressure cooker.

There is nothing like a hot bowl of pinto beans and ham on a cold winter day. Especially with a piece of cornbread soaking in the juices. Am I right!? Pinto beans have always been a weekend recipe. Now you can get off work and make it for dinner. For a slow cooker version of the same recipe, check out my crock pot pinto beans and ham recipe. 

Kitchen Tool Spotlight: Instant Pot

Now that we’re armed with pressure cookers, recipes that used to take all day now come together in under an hour. One of the beauties of the instant pot is that it eliminates the need for pre-soaked beans, saving you even more time in the kitchen!

The Instant Pot isn’t just for beans and soups—it’s a total meal prep powerhouse. Whether you’re whipping up quick sides like Instant Pot Green Beans, indulging in a seafood feast with Instant Pot Crab Legs, or keeping things healthy with crisp-tender Instant Pot Broccoli, it’s a game-changer in the kitchen.

Ingredient Spotlight: Pinto Beans

Pinto beans are a Southern staple—earthy, creamy, and hearty. They’re high in fiber, protein, and potassium, making them both nutritious and filling. In this recipe, we’re using dried pinto beans, which cook up beautifully in the Instant Pot—no soaking required.

Canned vs. Dried Beans?

Canned beans are great in a pinch, but they just don’t absorb flavor the same way dried beans do during pressure cooking. Dried beans also hold their shape better and have a more satisfying texture. Plus, you can control the salt content and seasoning from the start. However, if you do use canned beans,  I recommend rinsing thoroughly before tossing them in the instant pot.  

Ham Steaks vs. Ham Hocks

I grew up eating pinto beans with ham hocks. The ham was my favorite part. As an adult, I realized it wasn’t enough meat and switched to ham steaks. If you like meaty pinto beans and ham you may want to make the switch. The ham still is super tender and just as delicious.

For more hammy-recipes, check out my cheesy ham egg muffins (can’t recommend them enough). 

Instant Pot Pinto Beans and Ham Cook Time

This recipe comes together in just under an hour. Once your Instant Pot comes to pressure the beans and ham will cook for 50 minutes. Once the cooking time is over you will want to allow your instant pot to do a “natural release” for 40 minutes.

MorDirections for Instant Pot Pinto Bean Recipe and Ham

1. Rinse the beans under cool water. No soaking necessary.
2. In the Instant Pot, add the pinto beans, diced onion, garlic, ham steak or hocks, spices, and broth.
3. Seal the lid and set to Pressure Cook (Manual) for 50 minutes on High.
4. Once cooking ends, allow natural pressure release for 40 minutes. (Don’t quick release—it affects the texture.)
5. Open the lid, stir the beans, and shred the ham if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Storage and Reheating Instructions 

To store leftovers, transfer the pinto beans and ham to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to three months.

When you’re ready to reheat, warm the beans on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if they’ve thickened too much.