Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

There’s nothing quite like a big, steaming bowl of ham and bean soup to warm your soul on a chilly day—or honestly, any day!

This slow cooker version is pure magic because it takes simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and transforms them into something that tastes like love itself.

With tender chunks of ham, creamy beans, and a rich, savory broth, this soup practically cooks itself while you go about your day.

Plus, it’s one of those dishes where every bite feels like a hug from the inside out.

How to Make It

Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by chopping onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and ham. Toss everything into the slow cooker along with dried thyme and bay leaves for that deep, savory flavor foundation.

Step 2: Add Beans and Broth
Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, then add canned beans (like navy or cannellini). Stir gently to combine all the ingredients evenly before covering the slow cooker.

Step 3: Let It Simmer Low and Slow
Set the slow cooker to low and let the soup simmer away for 6-8 hours. The long, gentle cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while the beans soften further.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Just before serving, stir in chopped parsley or dill for a pop of freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—don’t forget a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness!

Pro Tips

• Use leftover ham: Got holiday leftovers? Perfect! Dice it up and toss it in for extra convenience.
• Boost umami: A splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce adds depth without overpowering the dish.
• Make it creamier: Blend half the soup before returning it to the pot for a thicker texture.
• Freeze-friendly: This soup freezes beautifully, so double the batch and save some for later.
• Herb swap: No parsley? Try cilantro or basil instead—it’s all about personal preference!

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  

Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

Cooking Method: Simmering, Slow Cooking Cuisine: American Favorites Courses: Soups & Stews

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 3 hrs Total Time 3 hrs 15 mins

Servings: 5 Calories: 320

Best Season: Fall, Winter

Dietary:

Dairy Free Gluten Free

Description

This hearty Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, made effortlessly in the slow cooker.

With tender chunks of ham, creamy beans, and a rich, flavorful broth, it’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or lazy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 stalks celery, chopped

• 2 cups diced cooked ham

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 2 bay leaves

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 3 cans (15oz each) navy or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 medium carrots, sliced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill

• ¹⁄₂ juice of lemon

Instructions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and celery for 5-7 minutes until softened. Transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add diced ham, thyme, bay leaves, broth, beans, and carrots to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove bay leaves. Stir in fresh herbs and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 5

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 320kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 8g13%

Total Carbohydrate 38g13%

Dietary Fiber 8g32%

Sugars 4g

Protein 24g48%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth.
• If using dried beans, soak overnight and increase cooking time accordingly.
• Feel free to customize with other veggies like spinach or kale.

These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.

Keywords: Ham and bean soup, slow cooker recipes, comfort food, one-pot meals