Cozy Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe for Comforting Meals

Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, wrapping you in a warm, cozy blanket of flavor with every spoonful. Imagine the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen as tender beans mingle with smoky ham, creating a delightful symphony of taste that dances on your palate. homemade cream of chicken soup.

This soup has a special place in my heart, reminding me of chilly Sunday afternoons spent huddled around the table with family. It’s perfect for those days when you want something hearty without putting in hours at the stove. Your taste buds are in for a treat that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare!

Ingredients for crockpot Ham and Bean Soup

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

• Ham Hock or Diced Ham: Choose a good-quality ham hock for deep flavor or diced ham for convenience; both work wonders.
• Dried Navy Beans: These small beans cook beautifully and absorb all the flavors; soak them overnight for best results.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and texture; slice them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Onion: A chopped onion adds depth to your soup; opt for yellow onions for a mild yet flavorful base.
• Celery: Celery gives a nice crunch and balances out the flavors; chop them finely for even distribution.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma and taste; don’t skimp on this fragrant ingredient!
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth as your base; it brings all the ingredients together without overpowering them. creamy turkey tetrazzini creamy chicken noodle casserole.
• Dried Thyme: A sprinkle of dried thyme infuses your soup with earthy notes; it’s like giving your dish an aromatic hug!
• Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves add a subtle depth; just remember to fish them out before serving!

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 dried navy beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain them before adding them to your crockpot. This step ensures they become tender during cooking.

Step 2: Chop Your Vegetables

Dice up your onions, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces. The more they resemble tiny little cubes of happiness, the better! Set these aside.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot

In your trusty crockpot, layer the soaked beans at the bottom followed by chopped vegetables. Place the ham hock or diced ham on top like a crown jewel.

Step 4: Add Seasonings

Pour in low-sodium chicken broth until everything is submerged—think of it as giving the ingredients a cozy bath! Toss in minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaves generously throughout.

Step 5: Set It and Forget It

Cover your crockpot and set it on low heat. Let it work its magic for about six to eight hours. During this time, you can binge-watch that show you’ve been meaning to catch up on!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once ready, remove the ham hock (if used) from the soup. Shred any remaining meat off the bone and return it back to the pot. Stir everything together and serve hot with crusty bread on the side!

Enjoy this heartwarming bowl of crockpot ham and bean soup that feels like a hug from grandma—comfort food at its finest!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your crockpot ham and bean soup, start by sautéing the onions and garlic. This builds a rich base before adding your beans, ham, and broth. Let it simmer low and slow for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your soup by swapping out beans or adding veggies like carrots and celery. For a spicy kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some smoked paprika for depth. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or pop it in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Sometimes I whip up this recipe after a long week, only to have my friends declare me a culinary genius! It’s amazing how something so simple can create such happy memories around the table.

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, soaked overnight. Add diced ham or ham hocks for flavor, along with chopped onions, carrots, and celery to build a robust base. Don’t forget garlic, bay leaves, and seasonings like salt and pepper. For additional flavor, consider including diced tomatoes or broth as well. This combination creates a hearty soup that warms the soul.

How long should I cook crockpot Ham and Bean Soup?

Cooking time for crockpot Ham and Bean Soup varies depending on your setting. If you use the low setting on your crockpot, allow the soup to cook for about 8 hours. On the high setting, it typically takes around 4 to 5 hours. Ensure that beans are tender before serving; they should easily break apart when pressed between your fingers. Adjust cooking time based on how quickly your particular model cooks.

Can I freeze leftover crockpot Ham and Bean Soup?

Yes, you can freeze leftover crockpot Ham and Bean Soup quite successfully. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best to portion out the soup for easy reheating later. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I serve with crockpot Ham and Bean Soup?

Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or warm cornbread for a comforting meal. A light salad can also complement the soup nicely by adding freshness to your plate. If you’re looking for something heartier, rice or mashed potatoes are excellent options as well. These sides enhance your dining experience while keeping it simple yet satisfying.

Conclusion for crockpot Ham and Bean Soup :

In summary, making a flavorful crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is both easy and rewarding. By using simple ingredients like dried beans, ham, vegetables, and seasonings, you create a hearty dish perfect for any occasion. The long cooking time allows flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring tender beans. cheesy ham cheese sticks Enjoy leftovers by freezing them for future meals or serve with delightful sides like bread or salad. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your home!

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Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup

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• Author: Hannah
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish features tender navy beans simmered with smoky ham, aromatic vegetables, and savory spices. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the work, this soup fills your home with warmth and delightful aromas. Each spoonful offers a satisfying blend of flavors that truly feels like a hug from grandma.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
• 1 cup dried navy beans (soaked overnight)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 stalks celery (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves

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Instructions

1. Soak the navy beans overnight in water; drain before use.
2. Dice the carrots, onion, and celery into small pieces.
3. In the crockpot, layer soaked beans, chopped vegetables, and place ham on top.
4. Pour in chicken broth until ingredients are covered; add garlic, thyme, and bay leaves.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until beans are tender.
6. If using a ham hock, remove it after cooking, shred meat off the bone, and return it to the soup before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. - Customize by incorporating diced tomatoes or other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.