Description
This hearty ham and bean soup is a comforting and flavorful dish made effortlessly in a crockpot. Packed with tender beans, smoky ham, and wholesome vegetables, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a rich, satisfying bowl of soup that warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried great northern beans (rinsed and sorted)
- 1 ham bone or 2 cups diced ham
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Beans
If using dried beans, soak them overnight in cold water. Drain and rinse before adding to the crockpot. - Step 2: Assemble Ingredients
Place the soaked beans, ham bone (or diced ham), onions, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika into the crockpot. Stir to combine. - Step 3: Cook Slowly
Set your crockpot to low and cook for 8-10 hours, or set it to high for 4-6 hours. The beans should be tender, and the ham will infuse the soup with incredible flavor. - Step 4: Remove the Ham Bone
If using a ham bone, carefully remove it from the crockpot. Shred any remaining meat from the bone and return it to the soup. Discard the bone. - Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little extra chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 310
- Sodium: 670mg
- Protein: 25g
Keywords: Hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe Crockpot