There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup. This hearty dish combines the smoky flavor of ham with tender beans and a medley of aromatic vegetables. It’s a perfect way to use leftover ham or a ham bone, creating a comforting and nutritious meal for the whole family.
Whether you’re preparing for a chilly evening or need a make-ahead meal, this recipe is easy to prepare and full of rich, savory flavor. Just set it in your slow cooker, and let time work its magic.
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup
- Minimal Effort: Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the hard work.
- Packed with Protein: Beans and ham combine for a hearty, protein-rich meal.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day.
- Versatile: Easily adapt the recipe with different beans, vegetables, or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup
Main Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) package 15-bean soup mix
- 3 cups cubed fully cooked ham
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 (15.5-ounce) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ham bone
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 bay leaf
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 |
| Protein | 21g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 10g |
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup
Step 1: Soak the Beans
- Place the 15-bean soup mix into a large bowl and cover it with several inches of cool water.
- Soak in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight. This helps soften the beans and reduces cooking time.
Step 2: Prep the Ingredients
- Drain and rinse the beans, then transfer them to your slow cooker.
- Chop the onion, carrots, and garlic, and cube the ham if not already prepared.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add the soaked beans, ham, chicken broth, water, great northern beans, ham bone, onion, carrots, garlic, pepper, salt, and bay leaf to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
- Set your slow cooker to Low and cook for 8-10 hours. The beans should be tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the bay leaf and ham bone before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Why Use a Ham Bone?
The ham bone is a secret ingredient that adds depth and richness to the soup. Its marrow and collagen infuse the broth with a velvety texture and smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate. If you don’t have a ham bone, you can use a smoked ham hock as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions for Ham and Bean Soup
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with these pairings:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad balances the heartiness of the soup.
- Cornbread: A classic Southern pairing that adds a touch of sweetness.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the soup over rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup
- Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is perfect for using up holiday ham leftovers.
- Don’t Skip the Soak: Soaking the beans helps them cook evenly and prevents digestive issues.
- Customize the Beans: If you don’t have a 15-bean mix, use a combination of kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. The saltiness of the ham can vary.
- Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and ham bone, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for an extra layer of depth.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, but the cooking time will be reduced. Add the canned beans during the last 2 hours of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
2. What if I don’t have a ham bone?
You can use a smoked ham hock, or simply skip it and rely on the cubed ham for flavor.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
4. Can I make this recipe on High?
Yes, but the beans may not cook as evenly. If using High, reduce the cooking time to 4-6 hours and monitor the beans’ tenderness.
5. Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Absolutely. Simmer the soup in a large pot on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. How do I reheat the soup?
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Why You Should Make Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup Tonight
There’s nothing like a bowl of Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. It’s the perfect combination of hearty ingredients and easy preparation. With its rich flavors, healthy benefits, and versatility, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to create a comforting homemade meal.
Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. You’ll be rewarded with a soup that’s delicious, nutritious, and sure to become a family favorite.
Easy Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup
Total Time: 8 hours, 10 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
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Description
This Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for chilly days or when you want an easy, hands-off dinner. With a blend of tender beans, smoky ham, and savory vegetables, every spoonful feels like a warm hug. Best of all, it’s easy to customize and makes enough to feed a crowd or save for later.
Ingredients
-
- 1 (8-ounce) package 15-bean soup mix
- 3 cups cubed fully cooked ham
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 (15.5-ounce) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ham bone
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Soak the Beans:
- Place the 15-bean soup mix in a large bowl and cover it with several inches of cool water.
- Soak in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse before using.
- Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the soaked beans to the slow cooker.
- Add the cubed ham, chicken broth, water, great northern beans, ham bone, onion, carrots, garlic, black pepper, salt, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Soup:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to Low. Cook for 8-10 hours until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Remove the Ham Bone and Bay Leaf:
- Before serving, carefully remove the ham bone and bay leaf. If desired, shred any meat left on the bone and stir it back into the soup.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or your favorite side.
Notes
- kip the Ham Bone: If you don’t have a ham bone, use a smoked ham hock or omit it altogether.
- Adjust the Salt: Taste the soup before adding additional salt, as ham can be naturally salty.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American
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