0 Shares

Looking for a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out? Try this Yummy Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup, a delightful blend of smoky ham and creamy beans simmered to perfection! This dish not only fills your belly but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma.

This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone who loves a hearty soup without the fuss. The crockpot takes care of the cooking, allowing you to focus on your day while it works its magic. With every spoonful, you’ll savor the delicious flavors and textures that make this soup a winner for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First and foremost, this Yummy Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can set it in the morning and return home to a warm, ready meal. No need to worry about dinner after a long day; your crockpot does all the work.

Secondly, the flavor profile of this soup is simply outstanding. The combination of tender ham, hearty beans, and aromatic vegetables creates a symphony of tastes in every bite. Additionally, it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs.

Key Ingredients

Yummy Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup ingredients

The key to making an unforgettable Yummy Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup lies in using fresh and quality ingredients. Below is a list of essential components that come together to create this mouthwatering dish.

Ham: Use leftover ham or diced ham steaks for a rich, smoky flavor.
Dried Beans: A mix of navy and great northern beans contributes creaminess and protein.
Onion: Chopped onions add depth and sweetness to the soup.
Carrots: Diced carrots bring both color and mild sweetness to balance the savory elements.
Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic: Minced garlic provides aromatic richness that elevates the dish.
Bay Leaves: These leaves infuse subtle herbal notes during cooking.
Chicken Broth: Provides moisture and depth; low-sodium options are great for health-conscious cooks.
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley round out the flavor perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Start by rinsing the dried beans under cold water until clean. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into small pieces for even cooking.
Add to Crockpot: Place all prepared ingredients into your crockpot: beans, diced ham, chopped vegetables, bay leaves, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.
Pour Broth: Carefully pour in enough chicken broth over the ingredients until they are fully submerged. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
Cook on Low: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours until beans are tender.
Taste & Adjust Seasoning: Once cooked through, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary—add more salt or pepper as desired.
Serve Hot: Remove bay leaves before serving. Ladle hot soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or crackers!

Expert Tips

If you want perfectly cooked beans every time, soak them overnight. This helps reduce cooking time significantly while ensuring they soften nicely during simmering. Moreover, using leftover ham adds even more flavors!

If you’re looking for thicker soup consistency, mash some of the beans against the side of the crockpot after cooking. This technique naturally thickens your soup without needing any additional thickeners. Finally, feel free to experiment with spices; adding smoked paprika can enhance that smoky flavor even further!

Presentation Ideas

This Yummy Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup can be served in various creative ways! Consider garnishing each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for added color and freshness. Pair it with warm crusty bread or homemade cornbread on the side for dipping—a great way to soak up every delicious drop! For an extra touch of elegance on special occasions, serve in rustic bread bowls topped with shredded cheese right before serving!

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Canned beans can certainly be used if you’re short on time! Just remember to rinse them well under cold water before adding them to your crockpot. If using canned beans, reduce cooking time by at least an hour since they are already cooked through.

How do I store leftovers?

Your Yummy Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers where it can last up to three months.

This recipe sounds delicious! Can I make it vegetarian?

You can absolutely create a vegetarian version by omitting ham entirely! Instead, add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini along with smoked paprika for that depth of flavor. Substitute vegetable broth instead of chicken broth as well!

I don’t have thyme; what can I use instead?

If you’re out of thyme, oregano or basil work as excellent substitutes! Each herb brings its unique flair while still complementing other flavors nicely within your soup.