ham & bean soup crock pot recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best ham & bean soup crock pot recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite ham and bean soup crock pot recipe.

This hearty, comforting dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become one of your family’s go-to meals too.

The origins of this recipe date back to the early American settlers, who used whatever ingredients they had on hand to create a nourishing and satisfying meal.

The simplicity of this recipe is part of its charm – just throw all the ingredients into a crock pot and let it cook all day long.

When I’m busy getting ready for a family gathering or just need a quick and easy meal, this ham and bean soup always hits the spot.

Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup

Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup

4.9 from 1274 votes

A hearty and comforting soup made with tender ham, creamy beans, and vegetables slow-cooked to perfection. This easy crock pot recipe requires minimal prep and delivers a rich, savory flavor that warms you from the inside out.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and picked over
1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the rinsed navy beans in the slow cooker.
2Add the ham bone or diced ham, chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic, distributing them evenly.
3Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the bay leaf, dried thyme, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
4Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
5Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the beans are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
6The ham should be falling off the bone if using a ham bone.
7If using a ham bone, carefully remove it from the soup and shred any remaining meat, discarding the bone and fat.
8Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir well.
9Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt to taste, starting with 1/2 teaspoon and adjusting as needed.
10Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

6-quart or larger slow cooker
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

Soak the navy beans overnight in cold water to reduce cooking time by about 2 hours. For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker before serving.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup Works

This ham and bean soup crock pot recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or need something hearty to feed your family after a big event. It’s also incredibly easy to make ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready, making it a great option for busy households like mine.

The best part? This soup is packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients from the beans, making it a healthy choice for your family’s meals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup

Q: What type of beans should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you can use either navy beans or pinto beans. Navy beans are a classic choice and will give the soup a more traditional flavor, while pinto beans add a slightly sweeter taste.

Q: Can I use leftover ham in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use leftover ham in this recipe. Just chop it up into small pieces and add it to the crock pot with the other ingredients.

Q: How long does it take for the soup to cook in a crock pot?

The cooking time for this recipe is about 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high. You can also cook it on high for 30 minutes to an hour if you’re in a hurry.

Q: Can I make this recipe without a crock pot?

You can make this recipe on the stovetop or in the oven, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Simply combine all the ingredients in a large pot or Dutch oven and cook over low heat for about 1-2 hours or until the beans are tender.

Q: How do I store leftover ham and bean soup?

You can store leftover ham and bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat it over low heat until warmed through before serving.

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