As the autumn leaves start to fall, the cozy scent of simmering soup fills the air, transforming my kitchen into a haven of comfort. Today, I'm excited to share my beloved Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup, a dish that not only brings back fond memories but also delivers a hearty meal with the simplest of ingredients. It’s perfect for those busy days when you crave something warm and fulfilling without the hassle of constant attention. With just a little prep time and a slow cooker doing all the work, you'll be rewarded with deeply flavored beans nestled among tender ham and vibrant vegetables. This soup is not only a freezer-friendly gem but also a comforting reminder that home-cooked meals can still be effortless. So, are you ready to fill your home with irresistible aromas and nourish your loved ones with this delightful recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this soup a must-try?
Comforting Flavors: The Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is a warm embrace in a bowl, filled with savory ham and tender beans that mingle beautifully.
Easy Preparation: With just a bit of chopping and soaking, the slow cooker takes care of the rest, making it perfect for busy days.
Hearty and Filling: This dish offers a satisfying meal that keeps you full and happy, ideal for chilly evenings.
Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add spices to make it your own!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether family or guests, everyone will love this deliciously cozy soup, especially when paired with crusty bread for dipping.
Don't forget to check out my easy slow cooker recipes for more effortless meal ideas!
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
- Dried navy beans – Rinsed and sorted for a creamy texture.
- Large onion – Diced for a sweet foundation of flavor.
- Garlic – Minced to add depth and aroma.
- Carrots – Diced for natural sweetness and color.
- Celery stalks – Diced to enhance the soup’s savory profile.
- Ham bone or diced ham – A flavorful addition that infuses the broth.
- Low-sodium chicken broth or water – Ensures a rich, comforting base.
- Dried thyme – Adds a hint of earthiness that complements the ham.
- Dried bay leaf – A little aromatic boost during cooking.
- Black pepper – For a mild kick and seasoning enhancement.
- Salt – Adjust to taste for a well-balanced flavor.
- Olive oil (optional for sautéing) – Helps in softening the vegetables and adds richness.
This Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup not only warms the stomach but also the heart with its familiar and wholesome taste. Enjoy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Start by rinsing the dried navy beans under cool running water to remove any debris. For best results, soak the beans overnight in a bowl of water. If you’re short on time, use the quick soak method: bring the beans to a boil for 2 minutes, then let them sit for an hour. Drain the beans and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened, and the onion turns a lovely translucent color. Then, add the minced garlic to the mixture, cooking for another minute while stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
In your crockpot, combine the soaked and drained beans, the sautéed vegetables, your ham bone or diced ham, and pour in the chicken broth (or water). Sprinkle in the dried thyme, add the bay leaf, and season with black pepper. Mix all the ingredients well, making sure the beans are nicely nestled under the broth.
Step 4: Set the Cooking Time
Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the soup to cook for 8 hours, or you can opt for a high setting and cook for around 4 hours. The soup is done when the beans are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, be sure to taste your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup for seasoning. Add salt as needed to balance the flavors. If you used a ham bone, remove it after cooking, shred the meat off the bone, and return the tasty bits to the soup, discarding the bone.
Step 6: Final Touch and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is complete, give the soup a good stir to incorporate all the delightful flavors. Serve the soup hot, ideally paired with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy this comforting bowl of Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup with family and friends!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Fridge: Store your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This soup freezes well! Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, and gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming.
Avoiding Texture Changes: If reheating from frozen, use low heat and add a splash of broth or water to maintain the creamy texture of the beans.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can soak the dried navy beans up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can sauté the vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery) and refrigerate them for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, simply combine the soaked beans, sautéed veggies, ham, and broth in the crockpot. Set it to cook according to the recipe instructions, and you’ll have a hearty meal waiting for you with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made it from scratch that day!
Variations & Substitutions for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Feel free to get creative and tailor this Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup to your palate; it's all about making it yours!
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Vegetarian: Replace the ham with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a savory flavor without meat. This substitution allows the beans and vegetables to shine, creating a deliciously hearty soup.
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Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a fiery twist. The added heat can be a delightful surprise, perfect for those who love a little spice in their life!
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Add Greens: Toss in some chopped kale or spinach during the last hour of cooking for a nutritional boost. This addition not only enhances the color but also contributes a fresh flavor to the soup.
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Different Beans: Swap out navy beans for pinto or cannellini beans for varied texture and taste. Each type brings its unique creamy essence, keeping your soup exciting every time you make it.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs such as rosemary or oregano in place of thyme. Fresh herbs can uplift the flavors, offering a garden-fresh aroma and taste.
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Creamy Style: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving for a luxuriously creamy consistency. This twist makes the soup smooth and irresistible, inviting everyone for seconds.
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Slow Cooking Tips: Try using leftover roasted vegetables, like butternut squash or sweet potatoes, for a richer flavor and added sweetness. It’s also a wonderful way to reduce food waste in a delicious manner!
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Acidity Boost: Squeeze in a little lemon juice or vinegar just before serving to brighten the flavors. This simple addition can elevate the dish and enhance your taste buds!
By exploring these variations, you ensure that your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup brings new and delightful experiences each time! Don't forget to check out more of my favorite slow cooker recipes or learn about how to mix and match flavors effectively in your meals!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
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Bean Soaking: Always soak your dried navy beans to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a creamy texture in your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup.
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Sautéing Vegetables: Consider sautéing your onion, carrots, and celery to enhance their flavors before adding them to the crockpot; this can elevate the soup's depth.
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Season Gradually: Start with less salt and adjust during the last 30 minutes of cooking; this helps prevent over-seasoning as flavors concentrate.
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Ham Choices: Feel free to use leftover holiday ham or even diced turkey for a different meat option—you'll still achieve a delicious result!
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Freezing Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully! Just allow it to cool before transferring to airtight containers, making future meals a breeze.
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Keep It Cozy: Pairing your soup with crusty bread adds the perfect touch to your meal; consider a hearty whole-grain for extra flavor.
What to Serve with Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
As the aroma of your simmering soup fills the kitchen, consider these delightful accompaniments to enrich your cozy meal experience.
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Crusty Bread: A freshly baked loaf is perfect for dipping, complementing the soup’s hearty texture with its crusty exterior and soft inside.
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Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add both color and a sweet caramelization, enhancing the overall palate with their earthy tones.
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Cornbread: Slightly sweet and buttery cornbread pairs beautifully with savory ham and bean, making each spoonful a delightful treat.
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Pickles or Relish: A side of tangy pickles adds a crunchy zing that cuts through the dish's richness, creating a delightful balance.
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Apple Crisp: This warm dessert, with its sweet and spiced notes, rounds out the meal perfectly, providing a comforting finish after your satisfying soup.
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right dried navy beans?
Absolutely! When selecting dried navy beans, look for beans that are uniform in size and have a smooth, unblemished surface. Avoid beans with dark spots or signs of moisture. Fresh beans typically yield a better texture and flavor, so check the packaging date if available.
What is the best way to store leftover ham and bean soup?
Very! To store your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Always seal it well to prevent any odors from affecting its flavor. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
Can I freeze leftover soup, and how should I do it?
Definitely! This soup freezes beautifully. After cooling, ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop.
What if my soup turns out too salty?
No worries! If you find that your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is a bit too salty, you can balance it out by adding a peeled potato during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The potato will absorb some of the saltiness. Alternatively, add more unsalted broth or water along with additional beans to dilute the flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! When it comes to allergies, this soup is typically safe for those who are gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-filled ingredients. However, always double-check your label on the broth and ensure it’s gluten-free. If you're feeding pets some leftover soup, be cautious of the seasoning, especially salt and garlic, which can be harmful to them. Opt for plain, unseasoned portions if treating your furry friends.
Can I substitute the ham for a vegetarian protein?
Very! If you're looking to make a vegetarian version of your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup, feel free to replace the ham with smoked tofu or tempeh to achieve a similarly hearty flavor. You can also toss in extra spices like smoked paprika to add that rich, smoky essence that the ham would traditionally provide. Enjoy exploring the flavors!
Cozy Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup for Soul-Warming Meals
Equipment
- Crockpot
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 cup Dried navy beans Rinsed and sorted
- 1 large Onion Diced
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced
- 2 medium Carrots Diced
- 2 stalks Celery Diced
- 1 ham bone or diced ham Flavorful addition
- 6 cups Low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 leaf Dried bay
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper To taste
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil Optional for sautéing
Instructions
Instructions
- Soak the beans overnight or use the quick soak method: boil for 2 minutes, then sit for 1 hour.
- Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil for 5-7 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Combine soaked beans, sautéed vegetables, ham bone or diced ham, and chicken broth in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours until beans are tender.
- Adjust seasoning, adding salt as needed, and remove ham bone to shred meat back into the soup.
- Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread for dipping.
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