Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup: 5 Steps to Blissful Comfort

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of homemade soup, especially on a chilly day. My go-to is this Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup, which just wraps you in its cozy embrace! The best part? You can toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning, and by the time dinner rolls around, your house will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of savory ham and hearty beans simmering away.

Slow cookers are a game changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. They let you set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without the fuss. Seriously, there’s nothing better than coming home to a meal that’s ready to eat, just waiting for you to dive in. This soup is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for the whole family. Trust me, you’re going to love every spoonful!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

To whip up this delicious Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and sorted
• 1 pound cooked ham, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

These simple ingredients come together to create a hearty and flavorful soup that the whole family will enjoy!

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

Making this Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, warming meal ready to enjoy. Let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab your dried navy beans and rinse them under cold water to remove any dust or impurities. If you have time, soaking them overnight can really cut down on cooking time, but if you’re in a hurry, don’t worry! They’ll still cook perfectly in the slow cooker.

Now, in your slow cooker, combine the rinsed beans, diced ham, chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. This is where the magic begins! Next, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme, then toss in the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to make sure those flavors mingle nicely.

Once that’s done, cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Trust me, the smell wafting through your house will be pure bliss! When the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf before serving, and taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, and you’re all set! Enjoy the heartiness of this soup, and feel free to share it with loved ones—it’s that good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Hearty Flavor: The combination of savory ham and tender beans creates a taste that’s both comforting and satisfying.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious for the whole family.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers later; it freezes wonderfully!
• Versatile: Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.

Tips for Success with Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

To ensure your Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, consider soaking the dried navy beans overnight. This not only speeds up the cooking time but also helps them become even more tender. If you have leftover ham from a holiday or a Sunday dinner, don’t hesitate to use it! The extra flavor it brings is unbeatable. And remember, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste; every ham can be a bit different in saltiness, so keep that in mind. Lastly, don’t skip on the bay leaf—it adds a lovely depth of flavor that really ties everything together!

Nutritional Information for Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

When you’re enjoying a warm bowl of this Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup, it’s nice to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 15g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Sugar: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy this hearty soup knowing it’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrients!

FAQ about Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

Got questions about this delicious Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up:

• Can I use different types of beans? Absolutely! While navy beans are traditional, you can swap them for great northern or pinto beans if you prefer.
• How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months!
• Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes! Just omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
• What can I serve with this soup? This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Can I prepare it the night before? Definitely! You can prep all the ingredients and refrigerate them overnight, then just toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup is super easy! Just let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, perfect for a quick meal later in the week. If you want to save some for a rainy day, this soup freezes wonderfully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick fix—just make sure to cover it to avoid splatters! Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

Pairing this delicious Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup with the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights! I love serving it with a slice of crusty bread or warm, buttery cornbread for dipping—there’s just something magical about scooping up that hearty soup with freshly baked bread. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, while some crunchy pickles or coleslaw can provide a delightful crunch. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top just before serving adds a creamy touch that’s hard to resist. Enjoy your cozy meal!

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