30 Best Ham Hock Recipes (Inexpensive & Delicious)

Ham hock is one of the most delicious choices for people who want something comforting after a long day of work and chores.

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that ham hock makes everything taste better, be it soups, green beans, or collard greens.

For this reason, we are sharing the best ham hock recipes that will keep your savory preferences in check.

In fact, a few ham hock recipes might seem new and unique and that’s because we want you to enjoy the diversity of spices and flavors.

Slow Cooked Ham Hock Stew

The Slow Cooked Ham Hock Stew is a comforting and hearty dish that epitomizes the essence of home cooked goodness.

This recipe involves simmering succulent ham hocks with a medley of vegetables, aromatic herbs, and flavorful broth for several hours.

As the stew simmers low and slow, it develops rich and deep flavors that meld together harmoniously.

The ham hock infuses the broth with its smoky essence, adding a distinctive taste that elevates the entire dish.

Honey Glazed Ham Hock

The Honey Glazed Ham Hock is a show stopping centerpiece for any special occasion or holiday feast.

This recipe involves roasting ham hocks in the oven with a honey glaze that caramelizes and coats the meat, resulting in a sweet and savory combination.

The ham hocks emerge from the oven with a beautifully lacquered exterior and succulent, tender meat on the inside.

The aroma that fills the kitchen during roasting is simply irresistible, tempting everyone to anticipate the mouthwatering flavors.

Smoky Ham Hock and Bean Soup

The Smoky Ham Hock and Bean Soup is a classic comfort dish that exudes a wonderful smoky aroma and rich flavors.

The ham hocks impart their distinct smokiness to the broth as they simmer with a medley of beans, vegetables, and herbs.

As the soup cooks, the ham hocks release their natural juices, infusing the entire concoction with an unmatched depth of taste.

The beans become tender and creamy, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the ham hocks and other ingredients.

Ham Hock and Collard Greens

The Ham Hock and Collard Greens dish is a Southern delicacy that celebrates the marriage of tender collard greens with the smoky goodness of ham hocks.

This recipe showcases the art of slow cooking, allowing the collard greens to simmer with the ham hocks until they become tender.

The ham hocks not only contribute a delicious smoky taste but also add richness to the greens, elevating them to new heights of deliciousness.

Served with cornbread or a side of hot sauce, it’s a staple on many Southern dinner tables, cherished for its soul warming flavors and cultural significance.

Beer Braised Ham Hock

The Beer Braised Ham Hock is a succulent and flavorful dish that showcases the unique combination of tender ham hocks with the richness of beer.

This recipe involves braising the ham hocks in a savory beer based broth until the meat is fall off the bone tender and infused with malty and hoppy notes.

The beer not only adds depth to the dish but also helps to tenderize the ham hocks, resulting in a truly delectable texture.

As the braising liquid reduces, it forms a luscious sauce that complements the ham hocks beautifully.

Ham Hock and Potato Hash

This is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together the smoky goodness of ham hocks with the comforting flavors of potatoes and savory seasonings.

This recipe involves dicing cooked ham hocks and pan frying them with cubed potatoes and a medley of onions, bell peppers, and spices.

As the hash cooks, the ham hocks release their rich flavors, infusing the entire dish with a delightful smokiness.

The potatoes turn golden and crispy, providing the perfect contrast to the tender ham hock meat.

Ham Hock Terrine

The Ham Hock Terrine is an elegant and visually stunning dish that is perfect for special occasions or gourmet gatherings.

This recipe involves slow cooking ham hocks until the meat becomes tender and easily shredded.

The result is a beautiful terrine with layers of flavors and textures that are both indulgent and refined.

Served with crusty bread, pickles, and chutney, it becomes an impressive appetizer or starter that will leave your guests marveling at your culinary skills.

Ham Hock and Lentil Stew

The Ham Hock and Lentil Stew is a nutritious one pot meal that combines the protein rich goodness of lentils with the smoky taste of ham hocks.

This stew has a medley of lentils, vegetables, and ham hocks simmered together in a flavorful broth until the lentils are tender and infused with flavors.

The ham hocks add a delightful depth to the stew, making it both satisfying and comforting.

Served with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream, the Ham Hock and Lentil Stew is sure to become a favorite during the colder months.

Ham Hock Mac and Cheese

The Ham Hock Mac and Cheese is a luxurious twist on the classic comfort food, elevating it to new heights with the addition of succulent ham hock meat.

In this recipe, cooked ham hocks are diced and folded into a creamy and cheesy macaroni mixture before being baked to perfection.

The ham hocks provide a delightful smoky flavor and a meaty texture that complements the cheesy goodness of the macaroni.

Perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or even as a delicious weeknight treat, the Ham Hock Mac and Cheese will be devoured by both kids and adults alike.

Ham Hock and Split Pea Soup

The Ham Hock and Split Pea Soup is a classic and timeless recipe that celebrates the wonderful pairing of split peas and smoky ham hocks.

This soup is a delicious combo of tender ham hock meat, split peas, vegetables, and aromatic herbs that simmer together to create a thick and hearty texture.

The ham hocks impart their smoky essence into the broth, resulting in a soup that is both savory and comforting.

As the soup cooks, the split peas break down and thicken the broth, creating a satisfying and filling meal.

Ham Hock and Sweet Potato Casserole

The Ham Hock and Sweet Potato Casserole is a delightful combination of smoky ham hock meat and naturally sweet and creamy sweet potatoes.

In this casserole, the tender ham hock meat is shredded and layered with slices of sweet potatoes and a delectable glaze.

As the casserole bakes, the sweet potatoes become soft and caramelized, absorbing all the rich flavors of the ham hocks and the glaze.

The result is a comforting and indulgent dish that is perfect for holiday dinners or special family gatherings.

Ham Hock and Cabbage Rolls

These are a unique and satisfying dish that combines tender ham hock meat with delicate cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling.

In this recipe, cooked ham hock meat is mixed with rice, vegetables, and herbs, creating a flavorful stuffing.

The cabbage leaves are blanched and then rolled around the stuffing before being simmered in a tangy tomato based sauce until tender.

As the rolls cook, they absorb the flavors of the sauce and the ham hock, resulting in a delectable and comforting meal.

Ham Hock and White Bean Cassoulet

The Ham Hock and White Bean Cassoulet is a rustic and hearty French dish that showcases the delicious pairing of ham hocks and creamy white beans.

The ham hock meat is then shredded and combined with white beans, aromatic vegetables, and herbs, before being baked in the oven.

The result is a comforting and flavorful one pot meal that is perfect for colder days or whenever you’re craving a taste of the French countryside.

The Ham Hock and White Bean Cassoulet is a delightful option for a comforting family dinner or a satisfying meal shared with friends.

Ham Hock and Corn Chowder

The Ham Hock and Corn Chowder is a rich and creamy soup that showcases the delightful sweetness of corn and the smoky taste of ham hocks.

Ham hocks are simmered with corn kernels, potatoes, and onions in a velvety broth until the flavors meld together into a comforting soup.

The ham hocks add depth and richness to the chowder, while the sweet corn infuses it with a delightful freshness.

Served with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or a garnish of fresh chives, it is the perfect way to indulge in seasonal flavors and enjoy a comforting bowl.

Ham Hock and Black Eyed Pea Salad

This is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines the smoky taste of ham hock meat with the earthy flavors of black eyed peas and fresh vegetables.

In this salad, the tender ham hock meat is diced and tossed with cooked black eyed peas, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

The result is a delightful medley of flavors and textures that create a refreshing and satisfying salad.

The Ham Hock and Black Eyed Pea Salad is a wholesome and delicious option that will leave you feeling nourished and energized.

Ham Hock and Pumpkin Risotto

This is a delightful autumn inspired dish that brings together the smoky goodness of ham hocks with the rich and creamy flavors of pumpkin.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are simmered until tender, and the meat is shredded and folded into a luscious pumpkin risotto.

The pumpkin adds a delightful sweetness and a velvety texture to the risotto, while the ham hocks infuse it with a savory richness that is simply irresistible.

Garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, it is a comforting and indulgent meal that captures the essence of the season.

Ham Hock and Mustard Greens

This is a traditional Southern recipe that highlights the pairing of tender ham hock meat with the slightly bitter and peppery taste of mustard greens.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are slowly simmered with a medley of spices and aromatics until the meat becomes succulent and falls off the bone.

The mustard greens are then added to the pot and cooked until tender, absorbing all the flavors of the ham hocks and the broth.

The result is a comforting and flavorful dish that represents the heart and soul of Southern cuisine.

Ham Hock and Barley Soup

The Ham Hock and Barley Soup is a nourishing soup that combines the smoky taste of ham hocks with the nutty and chewy texture of barley.

In this soup, the ham hocks are simmered with barley, vegetables, and aromatic herbs until the flavors meld together into a hearty and satisfying broth.

The ham hocks add a delightful depth and richness to the soup, while the barley provides a comforting and filling element.

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with fiber and essential nutrients, making it an excellent option for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Ham Hock and Sauerkraut Bake

The Ham Hock and Sauerkraut Bake is a delicious and savory dish that brings together the tender ham hock meat with the tangy and flavorful sauerkraut.

The shredded ham hock meat is then layered with sauerkraut and baked until the flavors meld together and the casserole becomes bubbly and golden.

The sauerkraut adds a delightful zing and complements the smoky taste of the ham hocks, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

Served with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, it is a hearty and satisfying dish that celebrates the flavors of traditional German cuisine.

Ham Hock and Red Beans

It is a classic and beloved recipe that features the delightful combination of tender ham hock meat with creamy and flavorful red beans.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are simmered with red beans, vegetables, and spices until the flavors meld together into a comforting and hearty stew.

The ham hocks infuse the red beans with a smoky essence and add richness to the dish.

Served with steamed rice or cornbread, it becomes a fulfilling meal that is cherished for its heartwarming taste and cultural significance.

Ham Hock and Mushroom Pasta

This is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the succulent taste of ham hock meat with the earthy and savory flavors of mushrooms.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are slow cooked until the meat is tender and can be shredded.

The shredded ham hock meat is then tossed with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and herbs, before being combined with cooked pasta.

The result is a rich and hearty pasta dish that is sure to satisfy both pasta lovers and meat enthusiasts alike.

Ham Hock and Pineapple Skewers

The Ham Hock and Pineapple Skewers are a mouthwatering option for grilling enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a unique combination of flavors.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are cooked until tender and then diced into bite-sized pieces.

The diced ham hock meat is then threaded onto skewers along with juicy pineapple chunks.

Grilled to perfection, the Ham Hock and Pineapple Skewers are not only visually appealing but also a delectable treat that is sure to be a hit at any BBQ.

Ham Hock and Butternut Squash Hash

This is a comforting and wholesome dish that combines the tender and smoky ham hock meat with the sweet and nutty flavors of butternut squash.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are simmered until tender and then shredded.

The shredded ham hock meat is then pan-fried with cubed butternut squash, onions, and aromatic herbs until everything becomes golden and delicious.

The result is a hearty and satisfying hash that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a light dinner.

Ham Hock and Okra Gumbo

This is a classic and flavorful Creole dish that brings together the tender ham hock meat with the delightful taste of okra and traditional gumbo spices.

The shredded ham hock meat is combined with sautéed okra, bell peppers, onions, and a rich and flavorful roux based broth.

The gumbo simmers until the flavors meld together and the okra thickens the broth to create a hearty and comforting stew.

The ham hocks add a smoky essence to the gumbo, while the okra imparts a delightful thickness and a unique flavor.

Ham Hock Sandwich and Apple Slaw

The Ham Hock Sandwich and Apple Slaw is a refreshing snack that combines the savory taste of ham hock meat with the crisp flavors of apples.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are slow cooked until tender and then diced into bite sized pieces. After that, they are stuffed between bread slices.

The diced ham hock meat is then mixed with shredded cabbage, sliced apples, and a zesty dressing made with Dijon mustard, vinegar, and olive oil.

The result is a light and refreshing sandwich platter that is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for grilled meats.

Ham Hock and Cheesy Grits

The Ham Hock and Cheesy Grits is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the smoky taste of ham hock meat with creamy and cheesy grits.

The shredded ham hock meat is served over a bed of cooked grits that have been enriched with butter, cream, and a generous amount of cheese.

The result is a delightful and flavorful combination of savory ham hocks and rich, creamy grits that is sure to please any comfort food enthusiast.

Served as a main course or a side dish, it’s the epitome of Southern comfort, bringing together the best of both worlds in one satisfying and delectable meal.

Ham Hock and Wild Rice Soup

The Ham Hock and Wild Rice Soup is a hearty dish that showcases the tender taste of ham hock meat with the nutty and chewy texture of wild rice.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are slow cooked until tender. It’s combined with cooked wild rice, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a flavorful.

The ham hocks infuse the pilaf with their smoky essence, adding a delightful depth of taste.

Served as a side dish or as a light meal on its own, it is a wonderful option for those seeking a satisfying meal that celebrates the wholesome flavors of nature.

Ham Hock and Beans

The Ham Hock and Sweet Cornbread is a delightful and irresistible combination of tender ham hock meat with the comforting taste of beans.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are slow cooked until tender and then shredded.

The shredded ham hock meat is then served alongside freshly baked a bean that has been sweetened with honey or maple syrup.

Served with a dollop of butter or a drizzle of honey, it makes for a delightful side dish or a comforting snack that is perfect for any time of the day.

Ham Hock and Brussels Sprouts Gratin

This is an elegant dish that combines the tender taste of ham hock meat with the delightful flavors of Brussels sprouts and a creamy gratin sauce.

The shredded ham hock meat is layered with cooked Brussels sprouts and a luscious cream sauce before being baked until golden and bubbly.

The ham hocks add a wonderful smokiness to the gratin, while the Brussels sprouts provide a lovely earthy taste.

It is a sophisticated and flavorful option for a dinner party or a special occasion, impressing guests with its indulgent taste and inviting aroma.

Ham Hock and Peach Chutney

The Ham Hock and Peach Chutney is a tangy condiment that pairs the succulent taste of ham hock meat with the sweet and juicy flavors of peaches.

In this recipe, the ham hocks are slow-cooked and shredded. It’s combined with homemade chutney made from fresh peaches, onions, spices, and of vinegar.

The result is unique and flavorful chutney that goes well with smoky taste of the ham hocks.

The Ham Hock and Peach Chutney can be served as a topping for grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a delightful accompaniment to cheese platters.

Final Thoughts

Ham hock is basically pork knuckle. Truth be told, this isn’t the most popular cut out there, but you can create mouthwatering dishes from it.

This cut is extremely affordable, so you can experiment with the ham hock recipes without worrying about wasting your money.

Our ham hock recipes are perfect for people who are on a tight budget but want fantastic flavors and a comforting feel.

So, it doesn’t matter if you like soups, roasts, or broasts; you are in for a good time because we have the best recipes!