Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate cozy meal that transforms your cold, dreary days into a warm hug. Imagine a hearty bowl filled with tender ham, creamy beans, and fragrant seasonings simmering away in your trusty crockpot, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas that beckon you to the table.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia on a spoon. I remember my grandma stirring her enormous pot on chilly winter evenings while we huddled around the kitchen table. Now, it’s my turn to pass on that warmth and comfort to my family. Perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup promises to deliver flavors that dance on your palate and memories that linger long after the last bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is incredibly easy to prepare; just toss everything in and let it work its magic.
- The rich flavor profile combines smoky ham with savory beans for an unforgettable taste experience.
- Its warm, inviting appearance makes it an instant centerpiece for any meal.
- Enjoy it as a filling main course or a delightful appetizer at your next gathering.
Ingredients for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Dried Navy Beans: These little guys are the stars of the show! Soak them overnight for the best texture.
Smoked Ham Hock: Adds a deep, smoky flavor that permeates the soup beautifully; feel free to use leftover ham if you have it.
Carrots: Chopped into bite-sized pieces, they bring sweetness and color to our hearty mix.
Celery: Diced celery adds crunch and freshness; opt for firm stalks for optimal flavor.
Onion: A chopped onion serves as the aromatic base; sauté it first for enhanced flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the soup with warmth; don’t skip this one!
Chicken Broth: A flavorful liquid to cook everything in; low-sodium broth lets you control the saltiness.
Dried Thyme: One teaspoon adds earthiness; feel free to adjust according to your taste preference.
Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves enhance depth—just remember to fish them out before serving!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Soak Those Beans
Start by soaking your dried navy beans overnight in plenty of water. This helps soften them up and reduces cooking time.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic until they’re fragrant and tender—about five minutes should do it.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In your crockpot, combine soaked beans, sautéed vegetables, smoked ham hock (or leftover ham), chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Give everything a good stir!
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot and set it on low for about eight hours or high for four hours. The longer you let it simmer, the better those flavors meld together!
Step 5: Season
Once cooked through, remove the ham hock from the soup. Shred any meat off the bone back into your soup. Don’t forget to discard those bay leaves!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Ladle generous portions into bowls. Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for an extra comforting meal.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch!
Now you’ve created a soul-warming bowl of Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup that’ll not only nourish but also bring everyone together around the dinner table—because who can resist a cozy soup?
You Must Know
- This delightful Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is not just a cozy meal; it’s a time-saver that warms the soul.
- With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for busy days when you want a comforting dish waiting for you at home.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in your crockpot to build flavor. Add the ham and beans next, followed by broth and spices. Let it simmer until everything melds together beautifully—this slow cooking is where the magic happens.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ham for turkey or bacon if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also toss in some veggies like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition, or spice things up with a dash of hot sauce!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess, then warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, use dried beans that you’ve soaked overnight; they’ll cook more evenly.
- Avoid overcooking ham; add it later in cooking to keep it tender.
- And don’t forget to taste as you go—seasoning is key to bringing flavors alive!
Sometimes I look back fondly at that chilly evening when I served this soup to friends during game night. Their smiles said it all—comfort food really brings people together!
FAQs:
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup?
Cooking Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup usually takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the beans to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re short on time, using the high setting can still yield a delicious soup, but for best results, opt for low heat. This ensures that the ham infuses its rich flavor throughout the dish, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Can I freeze Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup! To do this, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen. Properly stored, it can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in a microwave until warmed through.
What type of beans are best for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup?
For Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup, navy beans are typically preferred due to their creamy texture and ability to absorb flavors well. However, you can also use great northern beans or pinto beans if you prefer a different taste or texture. Each type of bean will contribute unique qualities to your soup while maintaining its hearty essence. Just remember to soak dried beans overnight if you aren’t using canned ones; this helps with cooking time and digestibility.
Can I add vegetables to my Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables enhances both flavor and nutrition in your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup. Carrots, celery, onions, or even spinach work wonderfully. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them at the beginning of cooking so they soften nicely by the time your soup is ready. You can also customize by adding seasonal vegetables for variety or incorporating leftovers from previous meals. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for using what you have on hand.
Conclusion for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup:
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings warmth to any table. With minimal preparation time, you can enjoy a hearty meal enriched with flavors from ham and spices mingling with tender beans. Remember that you can customize this recipe with various beans and vegetables based on your personal preference. Whether served alongside crusty bread or enjoyed solo, this soup promises comfort in every bowl. Enjoy making this delightful recipe part of your regular meal rotation!
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. This hearty dish combines tender navy beans, smoky ham hock, and aromatic vegetables, simmering together to create a rich and flavorful experience. With minimal prep time, simply toss your ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this soup not only warms the body but also evokes fond memories of cozy evenings spent around the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried navy beans
- 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 lb)
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Soak the navy beans overnight in plenty of water.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until tender (about 5 minutes).
- Combine soaked beans, sautéed vegetables, ham hock, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaves in your crockpot. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Once cooked, remove the ham hock; shred any meat back into the soup and discard bay leaves.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Substitute turkey or bacon for the ham if desired. Add seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
