Slow Cooker Kitchen

Delicious Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

If you're on the lookout for a recipe that's not just tasty but also incredibly satisfying, you're in for a treat. Today, we're diving headfirst into the world of cozy, hearty, and downright delicious comfort food with our Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe.

Picture this: tender beans, savory ham, aromatic onions, and a medley of veggies all simmering away in your trusty slow cooker, filling your home with the most enticing aroma. It's like a warm hug on a chilly day, and it's going to become your new favorite go-to meal.

Now, let's talk about the stars of the show. We've got a leftover ham bone (or some diced ham, if you prefer), a hearty mix of navy and great northern beans, aromatic ingredients like onions and celery, and a flavorful combination of spices. This is a recipe that brings together the best of both worlds – the rich, meaty goodness of ham and the wholesome heartiness of beans.

Whether you've recently enjoyed a big holiday feast and find yourself with a leftover ham bone or you're just in the mood for some classic comfort food, this recipe has got you covered. It's simple, it's satisfying, and it's the perfect way to turn those leftovers into something truly extraordinary.

As we walk you through the steps of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece, we'll also explore some nifty tips and tricks to make it even more convenient and adaptable to your needs. So, whether you're a busy mom looking for an easy dinner solution, a fan of old-fashioned ham and beans, or just someone who craves a bowl of hearty soup on a chilly day, stick around – this recipe is about to become your new best friend.

Get ready to embrace the wonderful world of slow-cooked goodness, where every spoonful is packed with flavor, warmth, and a whole lot of love. Let's get cooking!

Benefits of Making this Recipe in Your Crockpot:

When it comes to whipping up a scrumptious Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup, your trusty slow cooker is your best friend. Here's why:

• Convenience: Your crockpot does all the hard work for you. Just toss in the ingredients and let it simmer away while you go about your day.
• Flavor Infusion: Slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer, more flavorful broth.
• Tender Beans: The low and slow cooking method ensures that your beans turn out perfectly tender without falling apart.
• Effortless Ham: Whether you have a leftover ham bone or diced ham, the crockpot ensures it becomes irresistibly tender and infused with flavor.
• Aromatics: Onions, celery, and garlic powder work their magic over hours of cooking, giving your soup depth of flavor.
• Nutrition: Slow cooking preserves the nutritional value of the ingredients, so you get a wholesome, nutrient-packed meal.
• Versatility: Use dried beans or canned beans – your crockpot can handle both with ease.
• Time-Saving: This recipe is perfect for busy folks; set it and forget it until dinner time.
• Hearty Comfort Food: Warm, hearty, and comforting, this soup is the ultimate comfort food.

So, grab your crockpot and let it transform these simple ingredients into a bowl of pure, satisfying goodness.

Side Dish Yumminess for Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

let's jazz up your Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup with some tasty side dishes! Here are a few simple ideas to make your meal even more delightful:

1. Garlic Bread: What's better than dunking warm, crusty garlic bread into a bowl of soup? Toast some baguette slices with butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley for a side that's a match made in flavor heaven.

2. Salad Greens: A crisp, fresh salad can balance the richness of your soup. A simple garden salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing adds a refreshing touch to your meal.

3. Cornbread: Cornbread and soup are like a dynamic duo. Whip up a batch of sweet, buttery cornbread muffins or slices to complement the savory soup. You can make it in your crockpot too! Crockpot cornbread is a quick, fun recipe you can even get the kids to make.

4. Steamed Veggies: Lightly steamed broccoli, cauliflower, or green beans provide a nutritious and colorful side. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper is all they need.

5. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw is another fantastic choice. Its creamy, crunchy goodness pairs wonderfully with the heartiness of the soup.

6. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini can elevate your meal. Season them with herbs and olive oil for extra flavor.

7. Cheese Platter: Set up a cheese platter with an assortment of cheeses, crackers, and some fruit for a sophisticated side that's perfect for sharing.

8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of berries, melon, and citrus fruits is a fantastic palate cleanser.

9. Pickles: Don't underestimate the power of pickles! A few dill pickles or pickled onions can add a zesty, tangy kick to your meal.

10. Tortilla Chips and Salsa: For a Tex-Mex twist, serve some tortilla chips with salsa. The crunchy chips and zesty salsa provide a nice contrast to the soup's creamy texture.

Feel free to mix and match these side dishes to create a meal that suits your taste buds perfectly. Whether you go for something crunchy, fresh, or cheesy, these simple sides will make your Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup experience even more delightful! Enjoy your delicious feast!

Here's the step-by-step for the ham and beans soup recipe.  You can find the pinnable and printable down below.  Here's a list of the related recipes too:

• Crockpot Spiral Ham
• Slow Cooker Cornbread

Enjoy the fast prep & slow cookin' too!

Ham and Bean Soup Recipe Step-by-Step

Gather your ingredients...

Dice up your veggies...

This part is NOT an exact science.  Use what you have and what sounds good...it will be :)

Toss everything in the crockpot...

Pour the chicken broth over the top...

Cover and cook all day long.  6 hours is usually enough but it can cook up to 10 hours without being gross.

Right before serving stir well, remove the bay leaves (DON'T EAT them...it's horridly painful) and the remaining ham should pop right off the bone as you're stirring.

Serve me up with cornbread and dinner's all done!

Freezer Meal Prep for Ham & Bean Soup Freezer Meal

Did you know can turn your Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup into a freezer meal? Yep! And the great news is that it works both before and after cooking. Let's dive into the details:

Freezing Before Cooking (Classic Freezer Meal):

1. Prep Ingredients: Start by dicing up your veggies and ham (if you're not using a ham bone). You can also portion out your dried beans if you're using them.
2. Assemble in Freezer Bag: Grab a sturdy freezer-safe container or bag. Label it with the date and the name of the dish. This step is crucial to keep your freezer organized.
3. Layer Ingredients: Layer your diced ham, beans, onions, celery, and any other ingredients you want to include in your soup. Make sure to leave some room at the top of the bag to allow for expansion during freezing.
4. Remove Air: Squeeze out as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn and ensure the ingredients stay fresh.
5. Freeze: Place the bag flat in the freezer and freeze for up to 3 months.
6. Defrost: When you're ready to enjoy your soup, transfer the bag from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to cook it. Let it thaw out slowly in the fridge.

Freezing After Cooking:

1. Prepare Soup: Follow the cooking instructions for your Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup as usual.
2. Cool Down: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature. This step is essential to maintain the soup's quality during freezing.
3. Portion Out: If you'd like to freeze individual servings, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
4. Label and Seal: Label each container or bag with the date and contents, and ensure they are tightly sealed.
5. Freeze: Place the containers or bags in the freezer. Your soup should be good for up to 3 months.
6. Defrost and Reheat: When you're ready to savor your soup, remove it from the freezer and defrost it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat it on the stove, in the microwave, or even back in your trusty crockpot.

Whether you're planning to freeze your soup before or after cooking, these steps should work seamlessly for all cooking methods. Enjoy the convenience of having a hearty meal ready to go whenever you need it!

Printable Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Recipe

Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

SlowCookerKitchen.com

The add-in veggies are totally optional and not an exact science. Toss in what you have or what sounds good. It'll be awesome!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Ingredients

  

• 1 leftover ham bone with meat ~or~ 2 to 3 cups shredded or diced
• 1 large onion
• 3 medium carrots
• 1/2 head celery
• 2 1/2 cups of dried white beans soaked previously overnight ~or~ 4 cans
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves optional
• 2 teaspoons parsley dried
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

 

• Spray, oil or butter the slow cooker insert
• Dice up your veggies and ham if not using a ham bone
• Toss everything in the crockpot and pour broth over the top
• Cover and cook on low for 6 to 10 hours
• When ready to serve stir well and remove the ham bone and bay leaves.

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Alternative Cooking Methods for Ham and Bean Soup

If you're feeling a bit adventurous or want to whip up your Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup using different cooking methods, we've got you covered! While slow cooking is the star of the show, you can experiment with these alternative methods to suit your preferences.

Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup (Pressure Cooker):

Ingredients (Same as Crockpot):

Instructions:

1. Begin by using the Instant Pot's sauté function. Add a touch of oil and sauté the diced onions, carrots, and celery until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
2. Add in your diced ham or ham bone, dried white beans (if using soaked beans, drain and rinse them), chicken broth, bay leaves (if using), dried parsley, and garlic powder.
3. Seal the Instant Pot with the lid and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position.
4. Set the Instant Pot to manual or pressure cook mode and adjust the time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully switch the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the Instant Pot, give the soup a good stir, and remove the ham bone and bay leaves if you used them.
7. Serve your Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Oven-Baked Ham and Beans:

Ingredients (Same as Crock Pot):

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, combine all the ingredients.
3. Cover tightly with a lid or foil and place it in the oven.
4. Bake for about 4-5 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Remove the ham bone and bay leaves before serving.

Grilled Beans and Ham:

Ingredients (Same as Slow Cooker):

Instructions:

1. Set up your grill for indirect cooking over low heat, around 225-250°F (107-121°C).
2. In an oven-safe pot or a cast-iron skillet, combine all the ingredients.
3. Place the pot on the grill away from direct heat.
4. Cover and grill for about 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the flavors meld together.
5. Remove the ham bone and bay leaves before serving.

Note: Feel free to adjust cooking times and methods to suit your specific equipment and preferences. Enjoy experimenting with these alternative cooking methods for your delicious ham and bean soup!

Closing Summary: Crafting the Perfect Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

In our culinary adventure, we embarked on a journey to create the most comforting and flavorful Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe. This delightful recipe not only makes the most of your leftover holiday ham but also warms your heart and soul with every spoonful.

We began by exploring the benefits of using a slow cooker, and boy, does it shine in making this soup! It's convenient, infuses flavors beautifully, and leaves you with tender beans and succulent ham. The slow cooker truly is your kitchen sidekick for crafting this hearty dish.

But our journey didn't stop there. We ventured into alternative cooking methods, offering you a variety of options to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer the Instant Pot for speedy results, the oven for a hands-off approach, or even the grill for a smoky twist, we've got you covered.

And let's not forget the fun side dishes that can elevate your meal, from garlic bread to steamed veggies and everything in between. Pairing these sides with your ham and bean soup creates a symphony of flavors on your palate.

For those busy days, we explored the world of freezer meals, allowing you to prep this delightful dish in advance. Freezing before or after cooking, we provided step-by-step instructions to ensure your meal is ready whenever you need it.

So, whether you're a seasoned home chef or a newbie in the kitchen, our Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is your ticket to culinary success. It's versatile, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. Don't hesitate to dive in and savor the heartwarming flavors of this classic comfort dish. Happy cooking!

Q&A: Exploring the Savory World of Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup

Curiosity is the spice of life, especially when it comes to cooking. Let's dive into some common questions about our beloved Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup and uncover the secrets to making it a culinary masterpiece.

Q1: Can I use ham hock instead of leftover ham for this recipe? A1: Absolutely! Ham hock can infuse your soup with rich, smoky flavors. Just make sure to remove it at the end of cooking.

Q2: What's the difference between navy beans and cannellini beans? A2: While both are white beans, navy beans are smaller and slightly firmer than cannellini beans. Feel free to use either, depending on your preference.

Q3: How do I store leftover soup properly? A3: Transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It's good for 3-4 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Q4: Can I add black pepper for some extra kick? A4: Absolutely! Black pepper adds a nice zing to the soup. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Q5: Can I make this soup ahead of time for a Christmas dinner? A5: Definitely! Prepare it a day or two in advance, refrigerate, and reheat before serving. The flavors will meld even more.

Q6: What's the best part about this easy ham and bean soup? A6: The best part is the heartwarming feeling it brings with every spoonful. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up leftover ham!

Q7: Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans? A7: Of course! Canned beans are convenient and work perfectly in this recipe. Just skip the soaking step.

Q8: Is it okay to add a seasoning packet to enhance the flavor? A8: Absolutely! Feel free to add a seasoning packet to kick up the flavor profile.

Q9: What's your personal favorite side dish to pair with this soup? A9: A warm slice of garlic bread is a classic choice. It's perfect for dipping!

Q10: Can I make this soup in a large stock pot instead of a slow cooker? A10: Certainly! Simmer it on medium heat in a large stock pot until the beans are tender, stirring occasionally.

Q11: What's the secret to achieving tender white beans? A11: Soaking dried beans overnight before cooking helps them become tender and creamy.

Q12: Can I add fresh thyme for extra flavor? A12: Absolutely! Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note to your soup. Just be sure to remove the stems before serving.

Q13: How can I make this soup even heartier? A13: Add a little extra chopped ham or some diced ham steak for an even meatier texture.

Q14: Can I adjust the heat level of this soup for my kids? A14: To make it kid-friendly, simply go easy on any spicy elements and black pepper.

Q15: What's the perfect use for a bag of white beans sitting in my pantry? A15: Making this Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup is the perfect way to put those beans to delicious use!

With these answers, you're well on your way to becoming a master of the Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup. So, get your apron on, and let's create some culinary magic!