Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Ham and Beans Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of ham and beans. The rich, savory flavors blend perfectly, creating a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
I love how it simmers slowly, filling my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone in. It’s simple to make, too—just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham, turning it into a hearty meal. Every spoonful brings warmth and nostalgia, reminding me of cozy family gatherings and the joy of homemade comfort food.
You’ll adore it!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
When you think about comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s a big bowl of slow cooker ham and beans. It’s one of those meals that just gets better the longer it simmers, filling your home with a warm, inviting smell. And the best part? It’s super simple to make. You just gather your ingredients, toss them in the crock pot, and let it work its magic. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you need a little extra love. So, if you’re ready to jump into this hearty dish, let’s check out what you’ll need to create it!
Ingredients:
- 1 meaty ham bone
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups dried navy beans
- 3 large carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks and leaves, chopped
- 2 small white onions, chopped
- 5 cups water (using reserved liquid from beans)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now, while these ingredients are pretty straightforward, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First, if you don’t have a ham bone on hand, you can use diced ham instead—just make certain to adjust the cooking time a bit since the bone adds extra flavor as it cooks. And about those navy beans, soaking them overnight makes a world of difference; it helps them cook evenly and guarantees they’re nice and soft by the end of the day. If you’re in a pinch, you can skip the soaking, but I promise, your taste buds will thank you for the extra step. Remember, cooking should be fun and relaxed, so don’t stress too much about the exact measurements. A little extra carrot never hurt anyone, right?
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
Making slow cooker ham and beans is as easy as pie, or maybe even easier. First things first, you’ll want to grab that 1 1/2 to 2 cups of dried navy beans and soak them in a large bowl of water overnight. Sure, you could skip this step, but trust me, nobody wants crunchy beans in their cozy soup.
After those beans have soaked up all that water and have plumped up like little pillows, drain them and set aside that precious soaking liquid. This is where the flavor magic happens, folks.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff. In your trusty large crock pot, toss those soaked beans right in. On top of them, place your meaty ham bone—this is the star of the show, so don’t be shy.
Next, chop up 3 large carrots, 3 celery stalks (with those lovely leaves, of course), and 2 small white onions, and scatter them around the ham bone. It’s starting to look like a party in there, isn’t it?
Now, remember that reserved bean water? Measure out 5 cups of it and pour it over the ham and veggies. Cover your crock pot with the lid, set it to low, and let it work its magic for 8 to 10 hours. If you’re busy and can’t keep an eye on it, that’s perfectly fine—this is the beauty of slow cooking.
When the time’s up, you’ll find the meat practically falling off the bone and the beans soft and creamy. Carefully remove the ham bone and any meat you can salvage. Discard the bone (it’s done its job beautifully), and shred the meat with a couple of forks.
Toss that delicious shredded ham back into the pot, and feel free to remove any veggies you don’t want. Now comes the fun part: take a large spoon and smash some of those beans against the side of the crock pot. This little trick makes your soup creamy and oh-so-satisfying.
Give it a taste, season with salt and pepper to your liking, and voilà! You’ve whipped up a comforting bowl of slow cooker ham and beans that’s ready to warm your soul. Enjoy every delicious spoonful.
Slow Cooker Ham and Beans Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your slow cooker ham and beans, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to take into account.
For a different flavor, try using smoked sausage or turkey instead of ham. You can swap navy beans for pinto or black beans, too. Adding spices like cumin or a bay leaf can elevate the dish.
If you want a veggie boost, toss in bell peppers or kale. And for a heartier texture, consider adding potatoes or sweet potatoes.
Experimenting with these options lets you personalize your dish and keep it exciting!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
Serving slow cooker ham and beans can be a delightful experience, and pairing it with the right sides enhances the meal.
I love to serve it with cornbread, which adds a sweet, buttery contrast. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette brightens up the dish, balancing the richness of the ham.
For a heartier option, roasted potatoes work wonders, soaking up all those delicious flavors. Don’t forget some pickled vegetables; they add a nice zing.
Finally, a dollop of mustard can kick things up a notch. Enjoy experimenting with these sides to find your perfect combination!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your slow cooker ham and beans turn out perfectly, I recommend keeping an eye on the cooking time, as every slow cooker can vary slightly in heat levels.
If you like a thicker consistency, don’t hesitate to mash more beans against the pot’s side. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning; a little salt can elevate the flavors dramatically.
If you’re short on time, feel free to use canned beans, but be cautious with the cooking time.
Finally, adding a splash of vinegar just before serving can brighten up the dish beautifully. Enjoy your hearty meal!