If you’ve ever stopped by Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits, you know their sides are just as iconic as their fried chicken. Among the hushpuppies, dirty rice, and mac and cheese, there’s one humble dish that steals hearts — Bojangles Pinto Beans.
This comforting, flavorful side has a rich, smoky taste that pairs perfectly with fried chicken, biscuits, or even a simple bowl of rice.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make Bojangles Pinto Beans at home — using simple pantry ingredients and a few Southern cooking tricks. You’ll learn the secret behind their smoky, savory flavor, how to get that perfect creamy texture, and how to serve them just like Bojangles does.
What Makes Bojangles Pinto Beans So Good?
Bojangles’ pinto beans aren’t just any beans — they’re slow-cooked to perfection, seasoned with a smoky, meaty depth (thanks to bacon or ham), and have that Southern touch that makes every bite comforting.
Unlike plain boiled beans, Bojangles Pinto Beans are seasoned with a balance of spices — smoky paprika, garlic, onion, and a bit of chili powder. They’re hearty enough to enjoy as a main dish but mild enough to complement any Southern meal.
What really sets them apart is their texture — tender, creamy beans simmered in a flavorful broth that thickens slightly as it cooks. They’re not mushy, not watery, but just right.
Bojangles Pinto Beans Recipe (Copycat Version)
This copycat Bojangles Pinto Beans recipe brings that same Southern comfort right to your kitchen. With this easy recipe, you can make a big pot of beans that tastes just like the restaurant version — and maybe even better.
🕒 Prep Time:
15 minutes
🍳 Cook Time:
2 to 2 ½ hours
🍽️ Servings:
6 to 8 servings
🫘 Ingredients You’ll Need for Bojangles Pinto Beans Recipe
Here’s everything you need for the best Bojangles Pinto Beans Recipe:
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 6 cups water or chicken broth (for richer flavor)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 slices bacon or 1 ham hock (for that smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (adds balance and richness)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for brightness)
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional garnish: Chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or a drizzle of hot sauce
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s make this Bojangles Pinto Beans recipe step by step.
Step 1: Sort and Soak the Beans
Start by sorting your pinto beans — remove any debris or broken beans.
Then, soak them overnight in a large bowl with plenty of water (about 3 inches above the beans). This softens them and helps reduce cooking time.
If you’re short on time, try the quick soak method:
- Boil beans in water for 5 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let them sit for 1 hour.
- Drain and rinse before cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon (or Ham)
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crisp and golden.
Remove and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. If using a ham hock, brown it for a few minutes to release the smoky flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add onions and garlic to the bacon fat. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, until fragrant and slightly caramelized. This forms the flavor base of your beans.
Step 4: Add the Beans and Broth
Add the soaked pinto beans to the pot, along with chicken broth (or water).
Stir in smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, black pepper, salt, red pepper flakes, brown sugar, and bay leaf.
If using a ham hock, keep it in the pot during cooking. If using bacon, crumble it back in later.
Step 5: Simmer Slowly
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Let the beans simmer gently for 2 to 2 ½ hours, stirring occasionally. Keep the lid slightly ajar so steam can escape — this helps the broth thicken naturally.
If the beans start to dry out, add a bit more water or broth.
Step 6: Add Final Touches
Once the beans are tender and creamy, stir in apple cider vinegar for a bright, tangy finish. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Remove the ham hock (if used), shred any meat from it, and stir it back into the beans.
Your Bojangles Pinto Beans are now ready to serve!
🍽️ How to Serve Bojangles Pinto Beans
At Bojangles, pinto beans are often served in a small bowl with a side of cornbread or biscuit. But there are many ways to enjoy them at home:
- With cornbread or biscuits – the classic Southern pairing.
- Over rice – makes a full, hearty meal.
- Alongside fried chicken or BBQ ribs.
- As a dip – mash them slightly and serve with tortilla chips.
- With greens – serve with collard or mustard greens for a full Southern plate.
Pro Tip: Garnish with chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
💡 Tips for Perfect Bojangles Pinto Beans
To truly master this Bojangles Pinto Beans recipe, here are a few tried-and-true tips:
- Don’t skip the soak – It ensures even cooking and better texture.
- Low and slow is key – Slow simmering brings out that creamy, rich flavor.
- Use smoked meat – Bacon, ham hock, or even smoked turkey necks add depth.
- Season gradually – Taste as you go; beans absorb salt differently.
- Add vinegar last – It brightens the dish without toughening the beans.
🧂 Variations of Bojangles Pinto Beans
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few tasty variations:
1. Vegetarian Bojangles Pinto Beans
Skip the bacon or ham and use smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke instead. Add a bit of olive oil or butter for richness.
2. Spicy Bojangles Pinto Beans
Add a diced jalapeño, extra chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking for a kick.
3. Sweet and Smoky Version
Use molasses or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a deeper, more Southern sweetness.
4. Creamy Pinto Beans
Mash a few beans against the side of the pot toward the end of cooking. This thickens the broth naturally and gives you that creamy restaurant-style texture.
🥣 Storing and Reheating
Pinto beans taste even better the next day — the flavors deepen overnight!
To Store:
Let the beans cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To Freeze:
Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To Reheat:
Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture.
🧾 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values (will vary depending on ingredients):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 420mg
These Bojangles-style pinto beans are a wholesome source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them both hearty and nutritious.
🌾 The Southern History Behind Pinto Beans
Pinto beans have been a Southern staple for generations. In the Carolinas, where Bojangles was founded, beans were often simmered all day with pork trimmings, onions, and spices. They were affordable, filling, and comforting — a dish that could feed a family on a budget.
That same tradition carries into Bojangles’ version today — simple ingredients turned into something special through patience and love.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Bojangles Pinto Beans Recipe
- Authentic flavor: Smoky, savory, and perfectly seasoned.
- Simple ingredients: Everything is pantry-friendly.
- Comfort food: Warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
- Versatile: Works as a side, main dish, or meal prep option.
- Budget-friendly: Delicious, affordable Southern comfort.
Once you make it at home, you’ll see why Bojangles Pinto Beans have such a loyal following — they’re humble, flavorful, and absolutely addictive.
🏁 Final Thoughts on Bojangles Pinto Beans Recipe
The Bojangles Pinto Beans Recipe is a Southern gem — simple, hearty, and full of flavor. With this easy copycat version, you can enjoy the same smoky, savory comfort of Bojangles right in your own kitchen.
Whether served with crispy fried chicken, fresh-baked biscuits, or just a spoon and a smile, these beans bring people together around the table.
Give this recipe a try, and you might never need to visit Bojangles again for your bean fix — unless it’s for those biscuits, of course!
