Crockpot Ham Bean Soup
As the crisp air settles in and leaves turn golden, there’s nothing quite like the warming allure of a simmering pot of Crockpot Ham Bean Soup. Imagine stepping into your home, greeted by the hearty aroma of tender ham and earthy beans melded together, ready to wrap you in a cozy hug. The vibrant colors of the soup swirl as they bake slowly throughout the day, inviting you to gather around the table and share stories over steaming bowls.
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I can still remember my grandmother making this soup on chilly evenings, the whole house enveloped in the comforting scent of home-cooked goodness. Each spoonful reminded me of laughter, warmth, and a sense of belonging. Whether you’re snuggled up on the couch or hosting friends, this delicious soup is perfect for crisp fall and winter evenings. So grab your crockpot, gather the ingredients, and let’s create some beautiful memories with this simple, nourishing dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With only about 15 minutes of prep, this cozy Crockpot Ham Bean Soup can simmer to perfection, allowing you to focus on your day.
- Irresistible Flavor: Each bowl bursts with savory notes from the ham and creamy beans, making your taste buds dance with joy.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The rich, inviting colors of the soup make it a standout dish at any table.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for casual dinners with family, cozy nights in, or potluck gatherings; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapted to suit various diets; try using different beans for a unique twist or a vegetarian option!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb dried Great Northern beans: These beans provide a creamy texture that becomes even more delicious as they cook. If you’re in a pinch, you could substitute with canned beans, but fresh and dried are recommended for the best flavor.
- 1 lb ham (cubed): The star of the dish! Using a good-quality ham or leftover holiday ham enhances the taste significantly. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey ham works well too.
- 4½ cups chicken broth: Broth is essential for depth. Homemade broth is amazing, but store-bought options work just fine. Low-sodium varieties are great for controlling the saltiness.
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped): This adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor profile. You could swap it with shallots for a milder taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt invigorates the flavors, but feel free to adjust as you taste.
- 1 teaspoon pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds warmth and enhances the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): For those who love garlic, it gives an extra layer of flavor, though it’s still delicious without it.
How to Make Crockpot Ham Bean Soup
Soak the Beans: Start by sorting through the dried Great Northern beans, removing any debris. Then, soak them in water for about 8 hours or overnight. Drain them well before using to ensure they’re nice and ready for cooking. This step is crucial for a creamy texture and prevents them from being too firm in the soup.
Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, toss in the soaked beans along with the cubed ham, chopped onion, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything together gently until well combined, ensuring the ham and beans are evenly distributed among the other ingredients.
Cover and Cook: Set your crockpot to high and let it work its magic for about 4 hours. The soup will gradually start to bubble, and soon, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible, savory aroma. You’ll know the beans are tender when you can easily mash them against the side of the pot.
Adjust Seasoning: After your soup has cooked, give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference. If the soup is too thick for your liking, feel free to stir in a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Sit down with a piece of crusty bread, soak in those flavors, and enjoy every comforting bite. There’s something magical about sharing a meal that warms not just the body, but the soul.
Storing & Reheating
Leftovers of your flavorful Crockpot Ham Bean Soup can be stored at room temperature for about 2 hours after cooking, but they’re best stored in the fridge. Placing the soup in an airtight container allows it to stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a pot on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, stirring occasionally. Just a small splash of broth can help refresh the flavor and texture as needed!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the beans to prevent them from losing their shape; keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking.
- Ingredients like ham can vary in saltiness; adjust the seasoning towards the end for the best results.
- Using homemade chicken broth will elevate the soup’s flavor greatly, adding rich nuances.
- If making ahead, soak and prep the beans but don’t add them to the crockpot until the day you plan to serve.
- Consider adding vegetables like carrots or celery for additional nutrition and flavor.
- The soup thickens as it sits, so adding a bit of broth when reheating can help regain that comforting texture.
As you savor this warm, rich bowl of Crockpot Ham Bean Soup, know that you’ve created a dish full of nostalgia and love. Feel free to give it your personal touch; kitchen creativity is what makes cooking truly enjoyable. I encourage you to experiment with different spices or beans—it’s bound to surprise your palate in delightful ways. Invite your friends over, share stories, and enjoy every comforting spoonful together.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use canned beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use canned beans for convenience! If you opt for canned beans, skip the soaking process and reduce the cooking time to about 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low. Be sure to add the canned beans during the last hour of cooking to avoid mushiness.
What kind of ham works best?
For this soup, leftover holiday ham is ideal because it adds rich flavors. However, any diced ham works well, including ham steaks or even smoked sausage for a different twist. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned to complement the soup.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Crockpot Ham Bean Soup, simply omit the ham and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. For added flavor, consider integrating smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky taste and enhance the depth of the dish.
What do I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables can round out the meal nicely, providing a colorful contrast on your plate. Enjoying your soup with a light dessert, like a slice of apple pie, makes for a truly comforting and satisfying meal.
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📖 Recipe Card
Crockpot Ham Bean Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Ham Bean Soup combines tender ham and creamy beans in a hearty broth, offering an easy, healthy meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Enjoy a taste of nostalgia with every spoonful!
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried Great Northern beans
- 1 lb ham (cubed)
- 4½ cups chicken broth
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Soak the beans overnight and drain.
- Combine beans, ham, onion, broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on high for about 4 hours until beans are tender.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or broth if needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
For creamier texture, soak beans overnight before cooking.
Adjust seasoning based on the saltiness of the ham used. Consider adding vegetables for extra nutrition.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Can freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
