Cook on:
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LOW for 7–9 hours, or
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HIGH for 4–5 hours
The beans should become soft and creamy, and the ham will infuse the broth with smoky, savory richness.
Step 4 — Adjust and Serve
Taste and add salt if needed. Remove the bay leaf.
For a creamier consistency, lightly mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon.
Serve hot with:
🥖 Crusty bread
🧀 Cheddar biscuits
🌿 Fresh parsley
⭐ Why This Recipe Works
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Slow cooker magic: Extracts maximum flavor without supervision
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Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive dried beans and leftover ham
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Protein-packed: Beans + ham = filling and nutritious
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Freezer-friendly: Perfect for meal prep
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Customizable: Add veggies, herbs, or spices to taste
💡 Tips for the Best Ham & Bean Soup
✔ Add salt at the end
Ham varies in saltiness—seasoning early can lead to an overly salty soup.
✔ Use a ham bone if available
It deepens the broth’s flavor beautifully.
✔ No-soak beans work
But soaking reduces cooking time by about 1–2 hours.
✔ Broth options
Chicken broth creates a round, savory base. For a lighter soup, use half water and half broth.
🔄 Recipe Variations
🔸 Ham & Potato Bean Soup
Add diced potatoes during the last 2 hours of cooking.
🔸 Smoked Sausage Version
Replace half the ham with sliced smoked sausage.
🔸 Spicy Ham & Bean Soup
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
🔸 Herb Garden Version
Stir in fresh rosemary and parsley at the end.
🧊 Storage & Freezing
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
Freezer:
Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove.
Reheating:
Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens over time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans?
Yes! Substitute 3–4 cans of drained white beans, reduce the cooking time, and use less broth.
Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Absolutely—simmer for 1.5–2 hours until beans are tender.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace ham with smoked paprika + vegetables and use vegetable broth.
🍽 Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Soup is a delicious tribute to cozy home cooking. Whether you’re using leftover ham or starting fresh, the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a warm, flavorful dish the whole family will love.
Hearty, rustic, and deeply comforting—this soup deserves a spot in your winter recipe rotation.
