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Crockpot Ham & Lentil Soup (Hearty & Protein-Packed)

ByFoodarshia

There’s something about a big bowl of Crockpot Ham & Lentil Soup that feels like a hug in food form. It’s hearty, filling, and smells like comfort itself—but without all the stovetop babysitting.

Basically, you throw stuff in, walk away, and come back to a protein-packed masterpiece. Perfect for lazy days, cold nights, or when you want to pretend you’re a responsible adult who meal preps. 😉

Why This Recipe is Awesome

It’s simple: this soup does everything right. It’s healthy, satisfying, and ridiculously easy to make. You don’t need fancy ingredients or culinary talent—just a crockpot and a little patience. Lentils give it that earthy richness, ham adds smoky flavor, and together they make magic.

Also, it’s budget-friendly, which means you can feel good about eating well without emptying your wallet. Plus, it makes a huge batch, so hello leftovers! IMO, this soup is proof that comfort food and practicality can coexist.

Course: Soup / Dinner
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 6–8 bowls
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 6–8 hours (low) or 4 hours (high)
Calories: Around 300 per serving
Total time: 8 hours (hands-off bliss)

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb ham (cubed or shredded) – leftover holiday ham works like a charm.
  • 1 ½ cups dried lentils – any color, but green or brown hold up best.
  • 1 large onion, diced – the start of all good soups.
  • 3 carrots, sliced – because we’re pretending to be healthy.
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped – adds crunch and flavor.
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced – always more garlic.
  • 6 cups chicken broth – or vegetable broth if you want it lighter.
  • 1 tsp thyme – for that cozy, earthy flavor.
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika – adds depth and makes you look like you know what you’re doing.
  • 1 bay leaf – the unsung hero of soup.
  • Salt & pepper to taste – always adjust at the end.

Optional add-ons:

  • ½ cup diced potatoes – if you want it extra hearty.
  • A splash of apple cider vinegar – brightens the flavor.
  • Chopped parsley – because garnish makes it look fancy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep your veggies. Chop, slice, and dice everything while pretending you’re on a cooking show.
  2. Dump it all in. Add lentils, ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, spices, and broth into the crockpot. Give it a quick stir.
  3. Set and forget. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4 hours. The lentils will soften, and your kitchen will start to smell like pure comfort.
  4. Taste and adjust. Before serving, taste for seasoning and add salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar to brighten it up.
  5. Serve it up. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with parsley, and maybe add some crusty bread on the side. (Because carbs make everything better.)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the rinse. Always rinse your lentils first. Otherwise, you risk random grit in your soup. Ew.
  • Too much salt early on. Ham is salty—taste before adding more or your soup will taste like the ocean.
  • Forgetting the liquid. Lentils soak up broth fast. Check your crockpot halfway and add more if it’s looking thick.
  • Overcooking the veggies. They should be soft, not mushy. (Unless you like veggie mush, then you do you.)
  • Using canned lentils. Nope. They’ll turn to mush in a slow cooker. Go dry for texture and flavor.

Alternatives & Substitutions

  • No ham? Use smoked sausage, bacon, or even shredded chicken.
  • Vegetarian version: Skip the ham and use veggie broth. Add a dash of liquid smoke for that same depth.
  • Want it thicker? Mash a scoop of lentils at the end—it naturally thickens the soup.
  • Need it faster? Use an Instant Pot—15 minutes on high pressure, quick release.
  • Spice lovers: Add crushed red pepper or a pinch of cayenne. Your taste buds will thank you.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use leftover ham bone?
Yes! Toss it right in with the rest for an extra rich, smoky flavor. Remove it before serving.

Do I need to soak lentils first?
Nope. That’s the beauty of lentils—they cook straight from dry. Just rinse and go.

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool, then store in airtight containers. It freezes perfectly for up to 3 months.

What goes best with this soup?
Crusty bread, biscuits, or even a grilled cheese. Balance that protein with some melty carbs. 😋

Can I make it creamier?
Sure! Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a silky texture.

How do I thicken it naturally?
Mash a few lentils with a spoon or remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.

Can I use split peas instead of lentils?
You can! The texture will change slightly, but it’ll still taste amazing.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Ham & Lentil Soup is hearty, simple, and the perfect cold-weather comfort meal. It’s the kind of dish that practically makes itself and leaves you with leftovers that taste even better the next day.

So grab your crockpot, throw in your ingredients, and let time do the work. By dinner, your house will smell incredible, your stomach will be happy, and you’ll officially win the day—with minimal effort. 🥣

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