There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when the weather turns chilly. My go-to for those cozy nights has to be Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup. This recipe not only fills your home with mouthwatering aromas, but it also allows you to feel accomplished with minimal effort. Thanks to the slow cooking in the crockpot, the dried navy beans transform into a creamy, hearty delight—perfect for a nourishing meal that makes leftovers a dream. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftover ham, giving you a crowd-pleasing dish that won’t go to waste. Are you ready to dive into this easy, soul-satisfying recipe that just might become a staple in your household?
Why is Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup special?
Comforting Warmth: This soup is a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings.
Effortless Preparation: Simply toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work!
Nourishing Goodness: Packed with protein and fiber from navy beans, it’s a hearty meal that satisfies.
Versatile Delight: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices for a unique twist!
Perfect Leftovers: Makes an incredible next-day meal that tastes even better after the flavors meld.
This Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is not just a dish; it's a family favorite that brings everyone together. Enjoy it with some homemade crusty bread for an unforgettable dining experience!
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• 1 pound dried navy beans – rinse them well for the best flavor and texture.
• 1 large onion – diced onions add sweetness and depth to the soup.
• 3 cloves garlic – minced garlic enhances the aroma and taste significantly.
• 2 carrots – diced for a touch of natural sweetness and color.
• 2 celery stalks – diced to contribute crunch and richness.
• 1 ham bone with meat, or 2 cups diced ham – adds a savory smokiness, making this soup extra special.
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water – use broth for a deeper flavor, but water will work in a pinch!
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – this herb complements the ham beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon dried bay leaf – enhances the soup's flavor during cooking.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – add this for a subtle kick.
• Salt to taste – adjust to your preference right before serving.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for sautéing) – a tad of olive oil can help bring out the veggie flavors when sautéed.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Rinse the dried navy beans under cool running water to remove any debris, ensuring each bean is clean. Soak them overnight in water for optimal tenderness, or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, then cover and let sit for one hour. Once soaked, drain the beans and set them aside for the soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring the garlic doesn't burn, before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot
In your crockpot, add the soaked and drained navy beans along with the sautéed vegetables. Include the ham bone or diced ham, 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth (or water), and season with thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to blend the ingredients, making sure the beans and ham are well-distributed throughout.
Step 4: Set the Crockpot
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup to cook for 8 hours, or on high for about 4 hours, until the beans are tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Keep an eye on it from time to time, enjoying the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Final Steps
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, taste your soup for seasoning. Feel free to add salt to your preference, enhancing the flavors even more. If you used a ham bone, carefully remove it, shred any remaining meat, and return the tender pieces to the soup, discarding the bone.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is complete, give your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup a good stir to mix everything together. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot, paired with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. This hearty soup is now ready to warm your heart and nourish your family!
Expert Tips for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Bead Preparation: Always rinse and soak the navy beans for optimal tenderness; this prevents unwanted grit in your soup.
Sautéing Vegetables: Don’t skip the sautéing step! It enhances flavors significantly by caramelizing the onions and softening the veggies.
Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste the soup in the last 30 minutes to avoid over-salting; remember, flavors deepen as the soup simmers.
Choosing Ham Wisely: Use a meaty ham bone for a deeper flavor, or cubed ham for a quick alternative—both work beautifully!
Leftover Magic: If you have extra ham, feel free to add it during cooking; it elevates the soup's taste and makes it even heartier.
What to Serve with Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Looking to create a heartwarming meal alongside your warm bowl of soup? Let the flavors flow with these delectable pairings.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, this bread's crunch complements the creamy soup, adding a delightful texture. Every scoop is more satisfying with a side of freshly baked bread that soaks up all that goodness.
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Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens provides a crisp contrast that balances the rich flavors of the soup, brightening your plate. Try adding a zesty vinaigrette to elevate the freshness!
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Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread pairs beautifully, offering a subtle sweetness to the savory soup, making each bite a delightful harmony of flavors.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, bring a lovely roasted sweetness, enhancing the earthy tones of the beans. Their charred edges add a layer of complexity to your meal.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp packs a sweet punch with its buttery topping, adding warmth to your meal on chilly nights. It’s the perfect ending to a hearty soup!
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Sparkling Water: Keep it refreshing with sparkling water that cleanses the palate between bites, making the comforting soup experience even more enjoyable.
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Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed kale or spinach brings a dose of greens, enriching the meal's nutritional value and flavor, while the garlic infuses a fragrant charm.
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Pickle Relish: A tangy pickle relish gives a surprising zing that cuts through the richness of the soup and provides a fun, crunchy contrast.
Let your imagination run wild with these pairings to make your meal unforgettable!
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this comforting soup to suit your tastes!
- Vegetarian: Swap the ham for smoked paprika and sautéed mushrooms to bring in that smoky flavor without the meat.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a zesty twist and a subtle heat that elevates every spoonful.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a luscious and creamy texture that wraps around the beans.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to brighten the soup's flavor profile and give it a fresh, garden-like quality.
- Hearty Grains: Throw in some quinoa or barley to amplify the soup’s heartiness and add an extra bite that keeps you satisfied.
- Root Vegetable Medley: Mix in sweet potatoes or parsnips along with the carrots and celery for a delightful sweetness and earthy richness.
- Smoky BBQ: For a tangy twist, introduce a few tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce, giving the soup a fun new vibe that's perfect on game day!
- Citrus Zing: Finish it off with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving, adding a delightful brightness that balances the richness perfectly.
No matter how you choose to make it your own, this Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup will continue to be a delicious staple in your home. Enjoy it with some homemade crusty bread or alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Tip: Remember that flavors may deepen after freezing, making your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup even more delicious when reheated!
Make Ahead Options
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is an ideal dish for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can soak the navy beans up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they’re tender and ready for cooking. Additionally, you can sauté the vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery) the day before and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, simply combine the soaked beans, sautéed vegetables, ham, and broth in the crockpot, then set it to cook as directed. This way, you’ll have a warm, fulfilling meal with minimal effort after a long day!
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right dried navy beans?
Absolutely! When selecting dried navy beans, look for ones that are uniform in color and free of any dark spots or blemishes. They should feel firm and not have any signs of moisture or wrinkling, which indicates they may be old. Fresh beans will yield a better texture and flavor once cooked.
How should I store leftover Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup?
Very! To store leftover soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it tightly sealed to prevent any odors from affecting the soup. When it’s time to reheat, just warm it on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I freeze Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your soup, let it cool completely, and then ladle it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of broth or water for the best consistency.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find your soup is too thick after cooking, just stir in a little more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. This usually takes just a minute or two. Keep in mind that flavors will continue to meld, so a little extra liquid can enhance the overall taste even more.
Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
For sure! If anyone in your house has dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup. Substitute diced turkey or a plant-based protein instead of ham for a vegetarian dish. Always check for allergies related to the ingredients, especially to ensure the broth is free from gluten if needed. It’s a great way to customize it for everyone at your table!
How do I know when the beans are perfectly cooked?
Great question! The beans should be tender but still hold their shape, which usually takes about 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high in the crockpot. If they feel mushy, that's a sign they have overcooked. It’s always a good practice to check them about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up to ensure optimal texture.
Cozy Up with Homemade Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Equipment
- Crockpot
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 pound dried navy beans rinse them well for the best flavor and texture.
- 1 large onion diced onions add sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic minced garlic enhances the aroma and taste significantly.
- 2 medium carrots diced for a touch of natural sweetness and color.
- 2 stalks celery diced to contribute crunch and richness.
- 1 ham bone with meat or 2 cups diced ham adds a savory smokiness, making this soup extra special.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water use broth for a deeper flavor, but water will work in a pinch!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme this herb complements the ham beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried bay leaf enhances the soup's flavor during cooking.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper add this for a subtle kick.
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for sautéing).
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
- Rinse the dried navy beans under cool running water to remove any debris, ensuring each bean is clean. Soak them overnight in water for optimal tenderness, or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes, then cover and let sit for one hour. Once soaked, drain the beans and set them aside for the soup.
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring the garlic doesn't burn, before moving to the next step.
- In your crockpot, add the soaked and drained navy beans along with the sautéed vegetables. Include the ham bone or diced ham, 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth (or water), and season with thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to blend the ingredients, making sure the beans and ham are well-distributed throughout.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup to cook for 8 hours, or on high for about 4 hours, until the beans are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, taste your soup for seasoning. Feel free to add salt to your preference, enhancing the flavors even more. If you used a ham bone, carefully remove it, shred any remaining meat, and return the tender pieces to the soup, discarding the bone.
- Once the cooking time is complete, give your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup a good stir to mix everything together. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot, paired with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
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