Ah, the comforting embrace of a steaming bowl of Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup! This delightful recipe stumbled into my life many years ago during a family gathering, where the aroma wafting from the kitchen wrapped around us like a favorite blanket. My grandmother had thrown together a simple medley of ingredients with leftover ham from Sunday dinner, and by the time we sat down at the table, the smell of savory beans and fresh herbs had us welling up with excitement.
As we gathered around the table, spoons clinking against ceramic bowls, the first taste was a revelation—smooth, hearty goodness with tender bites of ham dancing in savory harmony with beans and veggies. Not only did it warm our bellies, but it also created memories. This soup is beloved in our family not just for its deliciousness but for the way it brings us together, making the kitchen feel like home.
I’m thrilled to share this cozy recipe with you! Once you take a whiff of those aromatic herbs bubbling away in your crockpot and savor the rich, comforting flavors, you’ll understand why it holds such a special place in my heart.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Peasy: Simply toss everything into the crockpot, and let it do the magic for you!
- Healthy Comfort: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a bowl of nutrition that warms the soul.
- Flavorful Goodness: Each spoonful delivers a symphony of flavors—salty ham, earthy beans, and aromatic herbs.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, your loved ones will be begging for seconds!
- Versatile: Perfect for winter evenings, but equally delightful any time of the year!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ham, diced: Get a nice, smoky ham for that depth of flavor. Leftover holiday ham works beautifully!
- 1 onion, chopped: Sweet and slightly tangy, it forms the aromatic base of the soup.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Their natural sweetness complements the saltiness of the ham.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Adds a delightful crunch and freshness.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth for more control over flavors.
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) great northern beans, drained and rinsed: Creamy and mild, these beans soak up the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A dash of garlic enhances the depth of your soup.
- 1 teaspoon thyme: This herb is warm and earthy, bringing everything together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to adjust according to your preference!
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Combine the Ingredients
In a cozy crockpot, toss together the diced ham, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Imagine the bright colors mingling in the pot, creating a cheerful mix that beckons you to stir!
2. Pour in the Broth and Beans
Carefully pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add those lovely drained and rinsed great northern beans. Picture the broth bubbling up and weaving a flavor blanket over the delightful array of ingredients.
3. Season to Perfection
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Take a moment to inhale that heady blend of aromas, it’s the smell of comfort food in the making!
4. Stir Well to Combine
Give everything a gentle stir, encouraging your ingredients to mingle and combine, as though they’re settling in for a cozy night together.
5. Cover and Cook
Cover your crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. As it cooks, your kitchen will fill with the comforting scent of savory soup that draws everyone in like a hug.
6. Serve Hot
When it’s done, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot! Each spoonful is a reminder of love, warmth, and togetherness.
Pro Tips for Success
- Ham Variations: Use smoked or honey-glazed ham for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables the night before to save time on busy days!
- Let It Sit: If you have the time, let it rest for a bit after cooking. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits!
Flavor Variations
- Beans: Swap great northern beans for black beans or cannellini beans for a different twist!
- Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat!
- Herb Swaps: Try using rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a fresh herb twist.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping or a fresh side salad for a lighter option. Serve it up in your favorite bowls, maybe with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that extra pop of color. As for drinks? A nice glass of white wine or a cozy hot cider complements the dish beautifully.
Make-Ahead & Storage
To prep ahead, you can chop the veggies and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The soup holds well in the fridge for about 3-4 days stored in an airtight container. Just refrigerate it as soon as it cools!
Leftovers
Got leftovers? Transform this soup into a hearty bean and ham casserole by layering it between slices of bread or over cooked rice for a whole new meal!
Freezing
Absolutely, this soup can be frozen! After it cools, portion it into freezer-safe containers. Just leave a little space at the top, as it may expand when frozen. Pull it out, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and enjoy!
Reheating
For the best reheating results, use a skillet over low heat, occasionally stirring for even warming. You could also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just soak them overnight and adjust cooking time, as they will take longer to become tender.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in spinach, kale, or potatoes for added nutrition and color.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works well, or you could use water with a teaspoon of bouillon for flavor!
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making it a great choice for gluten-sensitive friends!
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up our journey to creating this heartwarming Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup, I hope your kitchen fills with delightful aromas and joyful moments. There’s something so special about gathering around a warm dish, sharing stories, and making memories. Enjoy this comforting soup and the love that goes into each spoonful. Until next time, happy cooking from my kitchen to yours!
Warmly,
Chef Caroline 🌼
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ham, diced Get a nice, smoky ham for that depth of flavor. Leftover holiday ham works beautifully!
- 1 medium onion, chopped Sweet and slightly tangy, it forms the aromatic base of the soup.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced Their natural sweetness complements the saltiness of the ham.
- 2 stalks celery, sliced Adds a delightful crunch and freshness.
- 4 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium broth for more control over flavors.
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) great northern beans, drained and rinsed Creamy and mild, these beans soak up the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder A dash of garlic enhances the depth of your soup.
- 1 teaspoon thyme This herb is warm and earthy, bringing everything together.
- to taste Salt and pepper Don’t forget to adjust according to your preference!
Instructions
Preparation
- In a cozy crockpot, toss together the diced ham, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery.
- Carefully pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add the drained and rinsed great northern beans.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Give everything a gentle stir to encourage the ingredients to combine.
- Cover your crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- When it’s done, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot!