Your favorite crockpot ham bean soup just got a comforting twist! This delicious recipe delivers a hearty bowl of warmth that is perfect for chilly evenings or when you want to impress your family with minimal effort. By combining tender ham, nutritious beans, and a medley of vegetables, this dish transforms into a scrumptious meal that practically cooks itself.
If you’ve been on the internet lately, you’ve probably seen crockpot ham bean soup taking over your feeds everywhere – and for good reason. It’s not just simple; it’s also packed with flavors that deepen as they simmer together throughout the day. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a place in your weekly rotation.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty crockpot ham bean soup: nutritious beans
- 1 pound dried navy beans – soaked overnight for the best texture
- 1 cup diced ham – leftover holiday ham works wonderfully
- 1 medium onion, chopped – adds savory depth
- 2 carrots, diced – for sweetness and color
- 2 celery stalks, diced – adds crunch
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth – for a flavorful base
- 2 garlic cloves, minced – for aromatic goodness
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – a classic herb pairing with beans
- 1 bay leaf – adds complexity to the flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste – season to your preference
Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to create this flavorful soup. It’s as easy as tossing everything into the slow cooker! slow cooker tips
- Rinse the soaked beans under cold water and drain well.
- In your crockpot, combine the navy beans, diced ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring the beans are fully submerged.
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beans are tender.
- Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir well before serving.
What Else Can I Add to This Crockpot Ham Bean Soup?
This crockpot ham bean soup is highly customizable! Here are a few ideas to play around with:
- Try adding diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Incorporate kale or spinach for a boost of nutrition.
- Add a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist at the end.
- Swap in different types of beans, like black beans or pinto beans.
- Include spices such as smoked paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat.
What Can I Serve with This Crockpot Ham Bean Soup?
This cozy soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:
- crusty bread or homemade cornbread for dipping.
- A fresh garden salad to lighten up the meal.
- Grilled cheese sandwiches for a classic combination.
Tips & Tricks
For the best results, keep these tips in mind: crusty bread
- Soaking the beans overnight not only improves texture but also helps reduce cooking time.
- Feel free to adjust the liquid level; if you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth along with a variety of veggies.
FAQ
Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use 2-3 cans of drained and rinsed beans. Reduce the cooking time to 2-3 hours on low.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal.
This crockpot ham bean soup is worth making for its simplicity and depth of flavor. With minimal prep and maximum comfort, it’s a meal that brings warmth to your home. Don’t forget to share your results and enjoy the compliments from family and friends as they savor each delicious spoonful!
Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup
A comforting and flavorful crockpot ham and bean soup that is perfect for chilly evenings. This easy-to-make soup combines tender ham, nutritious beans, and a variety of vegetables to create a scrumptious meal that practically cooks itself.
Ingredients
-
1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
-
1 cup diced ham
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1 medium onion, chopped
-
2 carrots, diced
-
2 celery stalks, diced
-
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
-
2 garlic cloves, minced
-
1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 bay leaf
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Rinse the soaked beans under cold water and drain well.
-
In your crockpot, combine the navy beans, diced ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf.
-
Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, ensuring the beans are fully submerged.
-
Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beans are tender.
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Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir well before serving.
