Cozy Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup Recipe for Comfort

When the chilly winds blow and the leaves dance like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup. Picture this: you walk through the door after a long day, and the aroma wafts through the air, wrapping you in a cozy embrace. Creamy Garlic Sweet Potato Mash It’s like being welcomed home by an old friend, one who happens to be an expert chef. You can practically taste the savory ham mingling with tender beans, creating a symphony of flavors that sings sweet lullabies to your taste buds.

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This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that takes you back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air and hearty meals were the centerpiece. I remember my grandma standing over her slow cooker, her secret recipe bubbling away, becoming a cherished tradition every winter. Hearty Meatball and Spaghetti Soup Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or enjoying a quiet evening curled up with a good book, Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup is your trusted sidekick that delivers warmth and joy in every spoonful.

Every time I make this soup, my friends rave about how it tastes just like Grandma’s!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ham Hock: A flavorful cut of meat that adds richness; look for one with plenty of meat still attached.

• Great Northern Beans: These creamy beans soften beautifully during cooking; soak them overnight for best results.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots bring natural sweetness; choose firm ones for optimal flavor. Sweet Chili Meatballs for the Crockpot.

• Celery: Adds crunch and freshness; make sure it’s crisp and vibrant.

• Onion: Use yellow onions for their sweet flavor when cooked; they’ll become caramelized perfection.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the aroma; crush them right before adding for maximum flavor.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still delivering robust flavor.

• Dried Bay Leaves: These lend depth and heartiness; don’t forget to remove them before serving!

• Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper enhances all flavors without overwhelming them.

• Thyme (Optional): Fresh or dried thyme adds an aromatic touch; consider using fresh if available.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing and soaking the Great Northern beans overnight. This helps soften them for even cooking and ensures they absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until they soften slightly—about 5 minutes will do. You want those veggies dancing in their own juices!

Add Everything to the Slow Cooker: Transfer your sautéed veggies into the slow cooker along with soaked beans, ham hock, minced garlic, bay leaves, black pepper, and chicken broth. Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites Stir gently but confidently—you’re creating magic here!

Set It and Forget It: Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat for 8 hours or high heat for 4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more flavors develop—go ahead and let it work its magic while you live your life!

Taste Test Time: About 30 minutes before serving, taste your soup! If needed, adjust seasoning with salt or extra pepper—this is your masterpiece after all.

Scoop & Serve: Once fully cooked, remove the ham hock carefully (you might need some tongs). Shred any meat from it back into the soup—I promise no one will complain about extra ham! Ladle into bowls and garnish as desired.

Prepare yourself: everyone will be asking for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing your onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker. This enhances their flavors, creating a robust base for your soup. Layering ingredients helps maximize flavor extraction.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different beans or vegetables based on your preference. Adding a splash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce can elevate the flavor profile, making it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.

Creating this Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup has become a family tradition. I still remember my aunt’s secret ingredient that turned an average recipe into a household favorite! For more inspiration, check out this Sous Vide Ribeye Steak recipe.

FAQ

Can I use dried beans instead of canned for Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup?

Yes, but soak and cook them separately before adding to ensure they are tender.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup?

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for best results.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup?

Crusty bread or cornbread pairs wonderfully with this hearty soup for a complete meal.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup

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• Author: deleciouscorner
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort dish for chilly days. This hearty recipe combines tender ham hock, creamy Great Northern beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this soup is not only easy to make but also evokes warm memories of family gatherings. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, each bowl offers a delightful experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients

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• 1 ham hock (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup Great Northern beans (soaked overnight)
• 2 medium carrots (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 dried bay leaves
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)

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Instructions

1. Rinse and soak the Great Northern beans overnight.
2. In a skillet, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery over medium heat until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Transfer sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with soaked beans, ham hock, minced garlic, bay leaves, black pepper, and chicken broth. Stir gently.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the ham hock, shred the meat back into the soup, and serve hot.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 60mg