Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup (Hearty, Cozy & Budget-Friendly)

ByFoodarshia

So you’ve got leftover ham or a random ham bone sitting in your fridge, and you’re thinking, “What am I even supposed to do with this?”

Don’t worry—I’ve been there. Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup is the cozy, hearty, ridiculously cheap meal that magically turns scraps into something delicious. Minimal effort. Maximum comfort. Zero regrets.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

This soup checks every box: warm, filling, protein-packed, budget-friendly, and honestly impossible to mess up. It’s idiot-proof—even I didn’t mess it up, and I’ve definitely burnt noodles before. It’s the kind of soup that simmers away all day and makes your kitchen smell like you’ve been cooking for hours… even though the crockpot did all the work. Leftovers? Even better.

Course: Soup / Main

Cuisine: American Comfort Food

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 6–8 bowls

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 6–8 hours

Calories: Around 300 per serving

Total Time: About 6 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 cups diced ham or 1 ham bone with meat on it
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 3 cups water
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cans great northern beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (for that subtle “I tried” flavor)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional: parsley, chili flakes, or a splash of hot sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Add ham, broth, water, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, beans, thyme, paprika, pepper, and bay leaf to your crockpot. Stir like a pro.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or high for 3–4 hours, until veggies are soft and flavors have blended.
  3. If using a ham bone, remove it and shred off any remaining meat, then add it back to the pot.
  4. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning. Add salt—or don’t, depending on how salty your ham was.
  5. If you want it thicker, mash a few beans inside the crockpot and stir.
  6. Serve hot with bread, crackers, biscuits, or whatever carb you’re emotionally attached to.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not rinsing canned beans: Unless you like salty bean juice… rinse them.
  • Adding too much salt early: Ham can be sneaky salty. Taste at the end.
  • Skipping the paprika: It adds a smoky depth that makes the soup taste way more impressive.
  • Undercooking: Let it simmer long enough for everything to get soft and cozy.

Alternatives & Substitutions

  • Swap ham for smoked turkey, leftover chicken, or sausage.
  • Use navy beans or pinto beans if that’s what you have—this soup is not picky.
  • Add potatoes for extra chunkiness (IMO: elite move).
  • Throw in kale or spinach at the end if you want to feel healthier.
  • Want it spicy? Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use dry beans instead of canned?

Yes! Just soak overnight and cook longer.

Can I make this without ham?

Sure—use smoked turkey or go vegetarian with extra beans.

Does it freeze well?

Absolutely—freezes like a champ for up to 3 months.

Can I add pasta?

You can, but cook it separately or it’ll soak up all the broth.

Why is my soup too thick?

Add extra broth or water until it’s perfect.

Can I add more veggies?

Of course! Zucchini, potatoes, corn—go wild.

Is this healthy?

Yes—protein, fiber, veggies, all the cozy goodness.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Ham & Bean Soup is that reliable, comforting meal that stretches ingredients, warms your soul, and tastes even better the next day. It’s cozy, hearty, and ridiculously easy—basically everything a good soup should be. Now go throw this together, let your crockpot work its magic, and enjoy all the comfort with barely any effort. You earned it!

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