Hearty Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe: Easy, Comforting, and Perfect for Chilly Days
Looking for a hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly days? This Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup is your answer! Packed with flavorful ingredients like tender white beans, savory ham, and aromatic herbs, this slow-cooked masterpiece is a one-pot wonder that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to warm your soul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (about 2 cups) dried white beans (great northern beans or navy beans), soaked overnight and drained
- 1 lb cooked ham, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen or fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation
- Prepare the Beans: Rinse the soaked beans under cold water and drain.
- Crockpot Setup: Place the drained beans, diced ham, diced onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic in the crockpot.
- Seasonings: Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Ensure the liquid covers all ingredients by about an inch.
- Cooking: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours, until beans are tender.
- Adjusting Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning, keeping in mind the ham’s saltiness.
- Adding Spinach: If using spinach, stir it in during the last 15-20 minutes until wilted.
- Removing Bay Leaf: Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serving: Ladle into bowls and top with Parmesan and parsley, if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
This slow cooker soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, and don’t forget to check the beans for tenderness, as cooking times may vary. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, this soup is a must-try!
