If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that practically makes itself, let me introduce you to my favorite ham and beans crockpot recipe! There’s something incredibly satisfying about throwing a few simple ingredients into a slow cooker and letting them meld into a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. The combination of tender navy beans and savory ham creates a deliciously rich flavor that’s downright irresistible. Plus, the smell wafting through my kitchen while it cooks? Pure magic! I love serving this with a side of cornbread, making it the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this recipe on repeat!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful ham and beans crockpot recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that comforting flavor you’ll love!
- 1 pound dried navy beans (make sure to rinse and soak these overnight for the best texture)
- 1 pound cooked ham, diced (use leftover ham or deli ham for convenience)
- 1 onion, chopped (I prefer yellow onion for its sweetness)
- 2 carrots, sliced (they add a nice pop of color and sweetness)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (for that classic flavor base)
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought works great)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for a touch of savory goodness)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (adjust according to your taste)
- 1 bay leaf (don’t forget to remove it before serving!)
Feel free to mix things up a bit! You can add other veggies like bell peppers or even some spices if you want to kick it up a notch. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Ham and Beans in a Crockpot
Now, let’s dive into the simple steps to create this amazing ham and beans crockpot dish! The beauty of this recipe is how effortless it is, and I promise it’ll become a staple in your home. Just follow along, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy with minimal fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, you’ll want to rinse your dried navy beans under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Then, soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. This step is crucial for softening the beans and helps them cook evenly.
- Once they’ve soaked, drain the beans and place them in your crockpot. This is where the magic begins!
- Next, add in your diced ham, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. These ingredients create a beautiful flavor base that you’re going to love.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder and black pepper over the mixture—don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it really enhances the dish!
- Now, pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring that all the ingredients are covered. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick!
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Either way, you’ll end up with a hearty, flavorful dish. Just check back occasionally, and enjoy the amazing aroma filling your kitchen!
- Finally, before serving, remember to fish out that bay leaf. It’s done its job, and now it’s time to enjoy your delicious meal!
And there you have it! A simple, yet satisfying way to prepare ham and beans in your crockpot. Can’t wait for you to try it!
Nutritional Information
This hearty ham and beans crockpot recipe is not only comforting but also packed with nutrition! Each serving, which is about 1 cup, contains approximately 250 calories, with 6 grams of fat and 15 grams of protein. You’ll also get 35 grams of carbohydrates, including 10 grams of fiber, making it a filling choice. Keep in mind, these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so feel free to adjust according to your specific brands or personal touches. Enjoy this delicious dish guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly nights
- Effortless to prepare—just toss everything in the crockpot!
- Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
- Great for meal prep—leftovers taste even better!
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or spices
- Budget-friendly, using up leftover ham
Tips for Success
To elevate your ham and beans crockpot experience, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t skip the overnight soaking of the beans—this is key for achieving that tender texture. If you want to deepen the flavor, consider sautéing the onions and carrots in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. It really enhances the taste! Also, feel free to experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist. And remember, the longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld, so if you have the time, let it cook on low for a bit longer! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Serving Suggestions
To make your ham and beans crockpot meal even more delightful, I highly recommend serving it with some warm, buttery cornbread. The sweetness of the cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the dish! You could also toss together a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy touch that’s just divine. Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers (which I always hope for!), let the ham and beans cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to dig in again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it in the microwave for a quick meal. Just a splash of broth can help revive the consistency if it thickens up. Enjoy those cozy flavors all over again!
FAQ Section
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned beans for a quicker option! Just drain and rinse them, and add them to the crockpot in the last hour of cooking to heat through. This way, they won’t turn mushy.
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
I recommend using leftover cooked ham or a deli ham, but you can also use a ham hock for added flavor! Just remember to remove any bones before serving.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in diced potatoes, bell peppers, or even kale for extra nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly so everything is tender.
How do I know when the beans are done?
The beans should be tender and creamy. If they’re still a bit firm, let them cook a little longer. Just keep an eye on them!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze ham and beans! Just let them cool completely, then store in airtight containers. They’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.
Ham and Beans Crockpot Recipes: 7 Comforting Secrets
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty ham and beans dish made in a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried navy beans
- 1 pound cooked ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the beans overnight.
- Drain and place beans in the crockpot.
- Add diced ham, onion, carrots, celery, and seasonings.
- Pour chicken broth over the mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Serve with cornbread for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: ham and beans crockpot recipes
