Slow Cooker Ham Bean Soup

This Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup with Carrots and Celery is an easy American main dish that defines comfort. Perfect for a cozy meal any time of year, this hearty soup brings together tender diced ham and creamy cannellini beans in a savory broth. It is a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that allows you to enjoy a nutritious, gluten-free dinner with minimal effort.

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Using a slow cooker is the ideal way to develop the deep, savory flavors of a traditional bean soup without needing to watch a pot on the stove. This recipe makes six generous servings, making it a great option for meal prepping or feeding a hungry family on a chilly evening.

Ingredients

• Meats: 1 lb (450 g) cooked ham, diced
• Vegetables: 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Beans & Legumes: 2 cans (15 oz/425 g each) cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• Liquids: 6 cups (1.5 L) low-sodium chicken broth
• Spices & Seasonings: 1 bay leaf, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried parsley, ½ tsp black pepper, and salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

Add the diced ham, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and beans to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Season and Stir

Pour in the chicken broth. Add the bay leaf, thyme, parsley, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on low for 7 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.

Step 4: Final Adjustments

Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers, if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best results, use a slow cooker with at least a 6-quart capacity. A sharp chef's knife and a sturdy cutting board will make quick work of the carrots, celery, and onion. Uniformly slicing your vegetables ensures they all reach the perfect tenderness after 7 hours on low heat.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you have a leftover ham bone, smoked ham hocks may be substituted for the diced ham; simply remove the bones and shred the meat before serving. For those looking to add more greens to their diet, stir in some chopped spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of the cooking process.

Serviervorschläge

This soup is best served piping hot in deep bowls. For a thicker consistency, use a ladle or spoon to mash some of the beans directly in the slow cooker before serving. This creates a creamier texture without needing extra ingredients. Serve with crackers or a side of gluten-free bread to complete the meal.

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Providing 330 calories and 27g of protein per serving, this Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup is as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether you are using up holiday leftovers or looking for a reliable weeknight staple, this recipe delivers a satisfying and comforting experience every time.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use smoked ham hocks instead of diced ham?

Yes, smoked ham hocks add a deep smoky flavor. Remove the bones and shred the meat before serving.

→ How can I thicken the soup?

Mash a portion of the cooked beans before stirring them back in to create a creamier texture.

→ What vegetables pair well with ham and beans in this dish?

Carrots, celery, onions, and garlic provide aromatic depth, balancing the richness of the ham and beans.

→ Can I add greens to this soup?

Yes, stirring in chopped spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking adds freshness and nutrients.

→ Is it important to rinse the beans before cooking?

Rinsing canned beans removes excess sodium and improves the soup’s flavor and texture.