Slow Cooker Bean and Ham Soup: Hearty Winter Comfort Meal

Bean and Ham Soup: A Hearty Slow Cooker Meal

Bean and ham soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort dish loaded with protein and fiber. This easy crockpot recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful dinner perfect for family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Bean and Ham Soup

• Set-it-and-forget-it: Perfect for busy days—easy prep, then let your slow cooker do the rest.
• Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and leftover ham for an affordable, filling meal.
• Nutritious & satisfying: Packed with fiber, protein, and veggies—ideal for cold-weather cravings.

Ingredients for Bean and Ham Soup

• 1 (8-ounce) package 15-bean soup mix
• 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• 2 cups diced cooked ham (or 1 ham bone)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions: How to Make Bean and Ham Soup

1. Place the 15-bean soup mix in a large bowl and cover with several inches of cool water. Soak in the refrigerator for 8 hours to overnight, then drain and rinse.
2. Transfer the soaked beans to your slow cooker. Add chicken broth (or water), diced ham or ham bone, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika.
3. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours (or on HIGH for 4–5 hours), until beans are tender and flavors meld together.
4. If you used a ham bone, remove it, shred any remaining meat into the soup, and discard the bone.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving for a pop of color.
6. Ladle hearty servings into bowls and serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a cozy dinner.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 305 | Carbs: 32 g | Protein: 21 g | Fat: 10 g | Fiber: 11 g | Sodium: 1114 mg

Tips for Perfect Bean and Ham Soup

• For extra depth, sauté onions and garlic before adding to the slow cooker.
• Swap chicken broth for veggie broth to lower sodium.
• Stir occasionally if possible to prevent beans from sticking.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day—store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

With its rich flavors and cozy vibe, this bean and ham soup is sure to become a family favorite.