Looking for a hearty meal that feels like home? This ham and bean soup crockpot recipe is perfect. It’s great for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It’s easy to make and fills you up with warmth.
Using a crockpot makes it simple. Just set it and forget it. Let the flavors mix while you do other things or relax.
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Bean Soup
This ham and bean soup is more than just a meal. It’s a warm hug in a bowl. It’s full of good stuff that makes you feel great.
It’s perfect for cold nights or when you need something comforting. The smoky ham and tasty beans mix with veggies for a flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time.
It’s also good for your wallet. You can make a big, filling meal without spending a lot. This means you can enjoy lots of food without breaking the bank.
Making it is super easy. Just put everything in the crockpot and wait. Then, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go.
So, if you want a meal that’s both tasty and easy, try ham and bean soup. It’s a winner every time.
Ingredients Needed for Easy Ham and Bean Soup
Making the perfect ham and bean soup is easy. You just need the right ingredients. With these, you can make a tasty, filling meal that you’ll love.
Essential Ingredients
The soup starts with some key ingredients. Here’s what you need to begin:
- 1 pound dried navy beans (or great northern beans)
- 1 cup diced smoked ham
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
These ingredients make a great base. Adding thyme and bay leaves will make it even better.
Optional Ingredients to Jazz It Up
Want to make it even better? There are many healthy ingredients you can add. Try these:
- Diced tomatoes for a zesty kick
- A dash of hot sauce for some heat
- Kale or spinach for extra greens
- Different beans for texture
- Potatoes for added heartiness
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ham and Bean Soup
Ready to dive into a flavorful world? Let’s explore how to make ham and bean soup. This guide will walk you through essential soup cooking instructions that guarantee a delicious result.
Before you start, it’s wise to soak your beans overnight. This simple step improves texture and slashes cooking time. After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them to ensure they are clean and ready to absorb all that savory goodness!
Next, sauté your chosen vegetables. Start with classics like onion, celery, and carrot. This unlocks their flavors before they join the party in the crockpot. Aim for about 5 to 7 minutes of cooking over medium heat until they’re soft.
Now, gather all your ingredients. Combine the soaked beans, sautéed vegetables, diced ham, and broth into your crockpot. These are your main ingredients that create the heart of this delightful dish. Stir well to blend and season with spices like salt, pepper, or bay leaves according to your taste.
Set your crockpot to low for about 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The key is patience, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
As your soup cooks, the aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist. Once ready, give it a good stir, adjust the seasoning if needed, and prepare for a bowl of comfort.
With these soup cooking instructions, you’re on your way to mastering ham and bean soup like a pro. Enjoy every hearty spoonful!
Ham and Bean Soup Crockpot Recipe
Making a tasty ham and bean soup needs careful steps. This guide will help you get your ingredients ready and make your slow cooker work its magic. Let’s explore the world of meal prep together!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients. This makes cooking more fun. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound dried navy or great northern beans, soaked overnight
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Instructions
With your ingredients ready, start preparing your ham and bean soup. Follow these steps:
- Rinse and soak the beans overnight. This makes them cook faster and better.
- Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. This adds flavor and texture to your soup.
- Get your spices ready: thyme, salt, and pepper. This makes cooking faster.
Cooking Instructions
Now, it’s time to cook! Put your ingredients in the crockpot for the best taste. Here’s how:
- Put the soaked beans at the bottom. This helps them cook evenly.
- Put the diced ham and chopped veggies on top of the beans.
- Add the chicken broth to cover everything.
Put your slow cooker on low for 6 to 8 hours. This lets the flavors mix well, making a delicious soup.
Tips for the Perfect Soup Every Time
Making the perfect ham and bean soup is more than just a recipe. These tips will help you make a soup that warms your heart and tastes great.
Season your soup at different times. Don’t add salt too soon, or it will be too salty later. Add salt and spices halfway through cooking. This keeps your soup balanced and flavorful.
Don’t let your beans get too mushy. Soak dried beans before cooking to save time. This keeps them tender and makes your soup better.
Be creative with leftovers. Use leftover ham to add more flavor to your soup. A bit of vinegar or lemon juice before serving can make a big difference in taste.
Here’s a quick reference chart for your soup-making adventure:
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Season gradually | Prevents over-salting and allows flavors to develop |
| Soak dried beans | Cuts down on cooking time and keeps beans tender |
| Add vinegar or lemon | Brightens flavors and adds acidity |
| Use leftover ham | Maximizes flavor while minimizing waste |
How to Store Leftover Ham and Bean Soup
You’ve made a yummy batch of ham and bean soup. Now, you have leftovers. Don’t worry, there are good ways to keep your soup fresh and safe. Let’s look at the best ways to store leftovers.
Refrigeration Tips
For the fridge, remember these tips:
- Let the soup cool down before putting it in the fridge. This keeps it better.
- Use containers that don’t let air in. This stops moisture from making your soup bad.
- Keep your soup in the fridge for three to four days. Write the date on the container so you know how long it’s been there.
Freezing Your Soup
Want to keep your soup longer? Freezing is a great option. Here’s how to freeze it right:
- Put the soup in containers or bags that are safe for the freezer. This makes it easy to thaw and heat up later.
- Write the date and what’s inside on each container. You might also want to note how to reheat it.
- Your frozen soup can stay good for up to three months. This keeps the flavors fresh until you’re ready to eat it again.
Serving Suggestions for Ham and Bean Soup
Ham and bean soup is a hearty meal that warms the soul. To make your meal better, try these ideas:
- Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a vibrant touch.
- Serve it alongside a slice of crusty bread or a fluffy biscuit to soak up all the delicious broth.
- Pair your soup with a light salad featuring crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal.
These pairings make your meal taste better and look good too. Try different combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy this classic dish.
Your family and friends will love the extra effort you put into serving this delightful ham and bean soup!
Variations of Ham and Bean Soup to Try
Feeling adventurous? Why stick to the classic when you can explore exciting soup variations? Try using chorizo instead of traditional ham for a spicy kick. This bold substitution brings in a world of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
Imagine savoring a bowl of ham and bean soup infused with the smoky heat of chorizo. Now that’s recipe innovation at its finest!
If you prefer a heartier option, consider adding grains like barley or quinoa to your dish. This twist not only boosts the nutritional value but also gives texture to your soup. You’ll find that different ham and bean recipes can enhance the original by adding depth and dimension.
Plus, grains soak up the wonderful broth, making each bite more delicious.
For those who are plant-based or simply looking to lighten up, a vegetarian version can be a delightful alternative. Replace the ham with a generous dash of smoked paprika to mimic that beloved smoky flavor, while beans retain their rich, hearty profile. Embrace creativity in the kitchen and personalize your ham and bean soup; after all, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to these comforting classics!
