Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

This Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty, protein-packed dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. With just a few simple ingredients and no need to soak the beans beforehand, this recipe is ideal for busy days when you want a comforting, home-cooked meal without the hassle. The slow cooking process allows the beans to soak up all the rich flavors of ham, garlic, onion, and broth, resulting in a thick, flavorful soup that’s sure to satisfy.

Ingredients:

• 1 package HamBeens® 15 Bean Soup® with seasoning packet
• 8 cups reduced sodium chicken broth or chicken stock
• 1 meaty ham bone or ham hocks, diced ham, or 1 lb cooked sausage
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes with juices (1 can)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Hot sauce or red pepper flakes to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the beans thoroughly and drain them. Remove any debris and set the seasoning packet aside.
2. In a 6-quart slow cooker, add the beans, chicken broth, ham bone (or hocks), diced onion, minced garlic, and chili powder.
3. Cover and cook on high for 5 hours or on low for 7–8 hours, until the beans are tender.
4. Once the beans are cooked, remove the ham bone, chop any remaining meat from it, and return it to the slow cooker.
5. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), the seasoning packet from the beans, and the lemon juice.
6. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes to blend all the flavors together.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Serve your Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup hot, paired with crusty bread, cornbread, or dinner rolls for a hearty meal. Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch. A side salad or steamed green vegetables also balance out the richness.
• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.

Variations

1. Smoky Bacon Ham and Bean Soup: Add cooked bacon pieces for extra smokiness and texture.
2. Spicy Ham and Bean Soup: Include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
3. Vegetable-Packed Version: Add carrots, celery, bell peppers, and spinach for a wholesome, veggie-filled soup.
4. Creamy Ham and Bean Soup: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
5. Ham and Lentil Soup: Substitute half of the 15-bean mix with lentils for a thicker, heartier consistency.
6. Maple Ham and Bean Soup: Add 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup for a subtle sweetness that complements the smoky ham.
7. Southern-Style Ham and Bean Soup: Add a dash of Cajun seasoning and a handful of collard greens for southern flavor.
8. Italian Ham and Bean Soup: Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, and a handful of kale or spinach.
9. Ham and Barley Soup: Swap half of the beans for barley for a chewy texture and nutty flavor.
10. Sweet Potato Ham and Bean Soup: Add diced sweet potatoes for extra nutrition and natural sweetness.
11. Tomato Basil Ham and Bean Soup: Add fresh basil leaves and extra tomato paste for a vibrant tomato flavor.
12. Ham and Navy Bean Soup: Use only navy beans instead of a bean mix for a classic, creamy-style soup.
13. Ham and Corn Chowder: Mix in corn kernels and a little milk for a chowder-like texture.
14. Holiday Leftover Soup: Use leftover holiday ham, turkey, or sausage to reduce waste and create a flavorful dish.
15. Beer-Infused Ham and Bean Soup: Replace 1 cup of broth with light beer for a unique, rich depth of flavor.

FAQs

1. Do I need to soak the beans before cooking?
No soaking is required for this recipe. The slow cooker softens the beans perfectly during the cooking process.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth. You can also add smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.

3. What if I don’t have a ham bone?
You can substitute diced ham, ham hocks, or even cooked sausage for similar flavor.

4. Can I use canned beans instead of dry?
Canned beans are not ideal here since they’ll overcook. Use dry beans for the best texture.

5. How can I thicken the soup?
Mash some of the beans with a fork or use an immersion blender to thicken naturally.

6. Can I cook this soup on the stovetop?
Yes, simmer the ingredients in a large pot for 2–3 hours or until the beans are tender.

7. What type of beans are in the HamBeens® 15 Bean Soup mix?
It includes a mix of beans like navy, pinto, kidney, black, and lima beans, among others.

8. How do I prevent the beans from being tough?
Ensure you don’t add acidic ingredients like tomatoes or lemon juice until after the beans have softened.

9. Can I add pasta or rice to this soup?
Yes, but cook them separately and stir in before serving to prevent mushiness.

10. Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just cool completely before storing.

This Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup is the perfect example of a comforting, easy-to-make meal that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove all day. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Serve it with warm crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option for busy families. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this slow cooker soup will warm your heart and fill your home with delicious aroma.

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