Instant Pot Navy Beans with Smoked Ham Hocks: A Hearty Soul Food Classic Made Easy

Navy Beans and Ham Hocks for the Win

This one’s for the folks who know what a real bowl of comfort tastes like. Navy beans slow-simmered with smoked ham hocks are one of those soul food staples that feel like home—warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. But now, we’re doing it the quick way, with all the taste and none of the hours on the stove.

With the Instant Pot, you can have this Southern favorite on the table in under an hour—with tender beans, rich smoky meat, and broth that’s perfect with rice or cornbread. Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, this recipe brings that flavor you grew up on.

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried navy beans
• 2 to 4 smoked ham hocks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, to taste
• 4 to 6 cups of water or broth (enough to cover the beans)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Quick Soak (if needed)

Didn’t soak your beans overnight? No problem.

1. Add dry navy beans to the Instant Pot, cover with water, and set to Manual for 2 minutes.
2. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes, then quickly release the rest.
3. Drain and rinse the beans.

2. Sauté Your Base

1. Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode.
2. Add a splash of oil, then toss in the chopped onions and garlic.
3. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add Everything In

1. Add the soaked beans, ham hocks, thyme, and seasonings to taste.
2. Pour in enough water or broth to fully cover the beans. Stir well.

4. Pressure Cook

1. Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing.
2. Pressure cook on High for 40 minutes.

5. Release Pressure

1. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

6. Finish It Up

1. Remove the ham hocks, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
2. Pour off some liquid if it’s too soupy.
3. For extra creaminess, mash some of the beans and stir them back in.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with cornbread or over rice.

Pro Tips & Serving Suggestions

• Serve it right: Pair it with buttery cornbread, white rice, or even hot water cornbread. A variety of flavors that bring us together!
• No Instant Pot? You can still make this on the stovetop—just simmer for 2 to 3 hours until the beans and meat are tender.
• Don’t skip the seasonings: Smoked hocks bring the flavor, but don’t be afraid to layer in garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
• Leftovers hit harder: Like most stews and beans, this is even better the next day.

About the Creator

This soul-warming recipe is shared by @bwoodcooks, a go-to source on IG for comforting, flavorful meals straight from the heart. From classic Southern plates to modern kitchen hacks, Bwood brings that real-deal energy to every dish. Follow for more down-home eats and recipes that always hit.

B Wood Cooks | bwoodcooks