Hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipes Made Easy in the Crockpot
Few meals are as comforting as a warm bowl of ham and bean soup—especially when it’s been slowly simmering all day in a crockpot. Rich, hearty, and incredibly satisfying, this classic soup is perfect for chilly evenings, busy weekdays, or anytime you crave a no-fuss homemade meal.
The best part? The crockpot does most of the work for you.
Why Make Ham and Bean Soup in a Crockpot?
Using a crockpot takes this traditional recipe to the next level. Slow cooking allows the flavors to deepen, the beans to become perfectly tender, and the ham to infuse every spoonful with savory goodness. It’s a true “set it and forget it” meal—ideal for busy families or anyone who loves low-effort cooking.
Plus, it’s budget-friendly and a great way to use leftover ham.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This classic crockpot ham and bean soup uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients:
Dried beans (navy beans or great northern beans work best)
Cooked ham or ham bone
Onion, diced
Carrots and celery, chopped
Garlic
Chicken broth or water
Bay leaf
Salt, pepper, and herbs (thyme or parsley)
Optional add-ins like smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce can add extra depth and warmth.
How to Make Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Rinse dried beans thoroughly and remove any debris. Some cooks prefer soaking beans overnight, but many crockpot recipes work just fine without soaking—just allow enough cooking time.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
Place beans, ham, vegetables, garlic, and seasonings into the crockpot. Pour in enough broth to cover everything comfortably.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cook on:
Low for 7–8 hours, or
High for 4–5 hours
The soup is ready when the beans are tender and the broth is rich and flavorful.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning. If the soup is too thick, add a little extra broth. For a creamier texture, mash some beans directly in the pot.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about ham and bean soup is how customizable it is.
Creamy Ham and Bean Soup: Mash more beans or add a splash of cream at the end.
Vegetable-Loaded Version: Add potatoes, spinach, or kale during the last hour.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Use smoked ham or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
Low-Sodium Option: Use unsalted broth and season gradually.
Tips for the Best Flavor
Use a ham bone if you have one—it adds incredible depth.
Don’t over-salt early; ham can be salty on its own.
Let the soup rest for 10–15 minutes before serving—flavors deepen as it sits.
What to Serve with Ham and Bean Soup
This soup pairs beautifully with:
Crusty bread or cornbread
Warm dinner rolls
A simple green salad
It’s filling enough to stand alone but even better with something to soak up the broth.
Storage and Freezing
Ham and bean soup stores exceptionally well.
Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container
Freezer: Up to 3 months
The soup often tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
A Comfort Classic Worth Repeating
Crockpot ham and bean soup is the kind of recipe you come back to again and again. It’s simple, nourishing, and packed with comforting flavors that feel like home. Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or cooking from scratch, this soup is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.
