Cozy Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe – 30 Minutes Prep

There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of crockpot Ham and Bean Soup—it’s like a cozy hug for your insides. Picture this: a rich, thick broth filled with tender ham, hearty beans, and vibrant veggies that dance together in perfect harmony. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. With each spoonful, you’re not just savoring flavors; you’re reliving those chilly evenings wrapped in a blanket, sharing laughter with loved ones.

This soup is not just food; it’s nostalgia in a bowl. It reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip up batches of this soul-warming delight every winter. The smell would lure us from our rooms like moths to a flame, and we’d gather eagerly as she ladled out generous portions. Whether it’s game day or a family gathering, this crockpot Ham and Bean Soup brings people together in the most delicious way imaginable.

Ingredients for crockpot Ham and Bean Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ham Hock: This adds a deep, smoky flavor to the soup; feel free to use leftover ham for convenience.
• Dry Beans: A mix of navy and great northern beans works well; soak them overnight for best results.
• Carrots: Chop these into bite-sized pieces for sweetness and color; they add essential nutrients too.
• Celery: Diced celery brings crunchiness and depth of flavor; choose fresh stalks for the best taste.
• Onion: A medium onion adds aromatics; yellow onions are ideal due to their balanced sweetness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the overall flavor profile; crush them for maximum aroma.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; the base of the soup should be rich yet light.
• Dried Thyme: This herb brings an earthy flavor that complements the ham perfectly; fresh thyme can be used if available.

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: Prepare Your Beans

Start by soaking your dry beans overnight in plenty of water. This softens them up so they cook evenly. If you’re short on time or forgot (we’ve all been there), you can quick-soak them by boiling them for five minutes and letting them sit for an hour.

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sauté your diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until they’re fragrant—about five minutes should do it. This step boosts the flavors beautifully!

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Crockpot

Transfer the sautéed veggies into the crockpot. Add drained beans, the ham hock (or leftover ham), thyme, salt, pepper, and pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything by about an inch.

Step 4: Set It and Forget It

Cover your crockpot and set it on low for about eight hours or high for four hours—just enough time to binge-watch your favorite show or catch up on laundry (no judgment here).

Step 5: Shred & Serve

Once cooked through, remove the ham hock from the pot. Shred any remaining meat off the bone into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the soup. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Ladle your delicious creation into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread on the side—perfect for soaking up that luscious broth!

Now go ahead—grab that spoon! Your cozy bowl of crockpot Ham and Bean Soup awaits you to dive right into comfort food bliss!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by sautéing any onions or garlic to add depth. Then toss in the beans, ham, broth, and spices into the crockpot. Let it simmer away all day while you conquer your to-do list.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding diced carrots or celery for extra crunch. You could also swap the ham for turkey or even go vegetarian with mushrooms for a twist on classic flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or use the microwave until heated through.

Sometimes I whip up this crockpot ham and bean soup on cold Sundays while binge-watching my favorite shows. The smell fills the house, and family members magically appear just in time for dinner!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for crockpot ham and bean soup?

To make a delicious crockpot ham and bean soup, you will need a few key ingredients. Start with dried beans, such as navy or great northern beans, which provide a hearty base. You’ll also need diced ham for flavor, along with onions, carrots, and celery for added texture. Seasonings like garlic, bay leaves, black pepper, and thyme enhance the taste. Finally, use chicken or vegetable broth to give the soup depth. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.

How long does it take to cook crockpot ham and bean soup?

Cooking crockpot ham and bean soup takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 4 to 6 hours on high heat. It’s essential to soak the beans overnight before cooking; this step reduces cooking time significantly and helps achieve a tender texture. If you’re short on time, using canned beans can also work well but adjust the cooking duration accordingly. Always check that the beans are soft before serving for the best experience.

Can I freeze leftover crockpot ham and bean soup?

Yes, you can freeze leftover crockpot ham and bean soup! To ensure optimal freshness, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best to portion out servings for easy reheating later. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days.

What variations can I try with crockpot ham and bean soup?

There are many delightful variations of crockpot ham and bean soup that you can explore! Consider adding different types of beans like black beans or pinto beans for a unique twist. You can also throw in vegetables such as spinach or kale for extra nutrition. For added spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or smoked paprika. Experimenting with different herbs like cilantro or parsley can also elevate the flavors of your dish.

Conclusion for crockpot Ham and Bean Soup :

In summary, crockpot ham and bean soup is a comforting dish that combines simple ingredients into a hearty meal. By using dried beans, flavorful ham, and fresh vegetables, you create a satisfying experience perfect for any occasion. The ease of preparation allows you to set it in the morning and enjoy it by dinner time. Don’t forget that leftovers freeze well for future meals! Whether you stick to traditional recipes or explore variations, this dish will surely become a favorite in your home.

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Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup

• Author: Fiona
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Warm up with this hearty and comforting crockpot bean and vegetable soup, perfect for chilly evenings. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a wholesome meal for the family.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup dry navy beans
• 1 cup dry great northern beans
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Soak the dry beans overnight in plenty of water. For a quick soak, boil them for five minutes and let sit for one hour.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sauté the diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until fragrant (about five minutes).
3. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crockpot. Add drained beans, thyme, salt, pepper, and pour in chicken broth to cover everything by about an inch.
4. Cover your crockpot and set it on low for about eight hours or high for four hours.
5. Once cooked through, check seasoning before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot.
6. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread on the side for dipping.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.