Looking for a comforting and hassle-free meal idea? Our Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup recipe is here to save the day! Packed with savory ham, a variety of veggies, and nutritious beans, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. With ingredients like diced ham, carrots, celery, and a flavorful blend of spices, every spoonful is a burst of flavor and warmth. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this easy-to-make soup is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups of cubed ham (fully cooked) or 1 – 2.5 lb bone-in ham shank
- 1 package (8 oz) of 15-bean soup mix
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- ½ yellow onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, chopped
- ½ cup celery, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon powdered garlic
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Instructions:
- Begin by assembling your ingredients. Whether you opt for cubed ham or a ham shank, ensure it’s cooked and ready to impart its delicious flavor into the soup.
- In the pot of your trusty slow cooker, combine the ham (bones if using a shank), cubed ham, onion, carrots, celery, and the vibrant 15-bean soup mix.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, bathing the ingredients in a rich, savory bath. Then, sprinkle in the powdered garlic, parsley, bay leaves, and freshly ground pepper to elevate the flavors to perfection.
- Set your slow cooker to low heat and let the magic happen! Allow the ingredients to mingle and meld together for a glorious 8 hours, filling your home with the tantalizing aroma of a meal worth waiting for.
- Once the soup has simmered to perfection, ladle it into bowls and savor every spoonful of this wholesome creation. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dinner on a chilly evening or packed for a hearty lunch the next day, this Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is sure to become a family favorite.
FAQs:
- Can I use different types of beans for this soup?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a 15-bean soup mix, you can customize it to your liking by using your favorite variety of beans or a combination of different types. - How long does it take to cook the soup in the slow cooker?
The soup cooks on low heat for approximately 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, hearty dish. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat whenever you’re ready to enjoy it again. - Is it necessary to soak the beans beforehand?
No, soaking the beans is not required for this recipe. The long cooking time in the slow cooker ensures that the beans become tender and delicious without the need for pre-soaking. - Can I use leftover holiday ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover ham is a fantastic way to add extra flavor to the soup. Simply dice it up and add it to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. - Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Of course! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as potatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. - What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a simple sandwich for a complete and satisfying meal. - Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a delicious vegetarian version of this soup.
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