Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Ham and Beans Recipe
When you plunge into this Slow Cooker Ham and Beans recipe, you’ll quickly realize why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. It’s not just about ease; it’s about flavor and comfort.
The moment you walk in after a long day and catch that savory aroma wafting through the house, you’ll feel instantly at home. I love how the ham bone infuses the beans with a rich, smoky taste while they cook slowly together, creating a harmony that warms the soul.
Plus, it’s a complete meal in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Each spoonful is hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
When it comes to making a cozy, comforting meal, the ingredients for Slow Cooker Ham and Beans are as straightforward as they come. They’re the kind of ingredients that you can easily find at any grocery store, and they’re all about bringing out that warm, hearty flavor that makes you feel like you’re wrapped up in a cozy blanket.
Plus, you probably have some of them already lurking in your pantry or fridge. So let’s roll up our sleeves and take a look at what you’ll need for this delightful dish.
- 1 meaty ham bone
- 1 1/2 – 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 soaked beans)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Now, before you plunge into cooking, there are a few things to keep in mind about these ingredients. First, soaking the navy beans overnight is key—don’t skip this step unless you want to chew on tiny rocks. Trust me, I’ve made that mistake before, and my jaw probably still hasn’t forgiven me.
Also, using a meaty ham bone not only adds flavor but also makes your soup feel more like a hug in a bowl. And if you’re looking to cut down on sodium, feel free to adjust the salt to your taste.
This recipe is quite forgiving and can easily accommodate what you have on hand. So, gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking—your slow cooker is just waiting to turn them into something magical.
How to Make Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
Making Slow Cooker Ham and Beans is like giving your kitchen a warm hug. It’s all about layering flavors and letting time work its magic. To start, you’ll want to grab 1 ½ to 2 cups of dried navy beans and soak them overnight. Trust me, soaking is essential. You don’t want to bite into a hard bean and feel like you’re auditioning for the role of “Person Who Can’t Chew.”
After your beans have soaked and are nice and plump, drain them, but don’t toss that soaking liquid just yet; it’s liquid gold for your soup.
Now, let’s assemble our slow cooker masterpiece. Place those soaked navy beans right into your crock pot, forming a cozy little bed for our meaty ham bone. Speaking of which, lay that 1 meaty ham bone right on top of the beans. It’s like the crown jewel of this dish—so much flavor to come.
Next up, take 3 large carrots, chopped, and toss them around the ham bone, followed by 3 chopped celery stalks (and their leaves). Add in 2 small chopped white onions, which will add a lovely sweetness as they cook down. Remember that reserved liquid? Measure out 5 cups and pour it over the ham and veggies.
Cover it up with the lid, set your slow cooker to low, and let it work its magic for about 8 to 10 hours.
When you return, you’ll find that the meat has melted off the bone, and the beans are soft and creamy. It’s like a culinary miracle. Carefully remove the ham bone and any excess meat you want to discard. Shred the meat using forks and toss it back into the pot.
Now, for the fun part—grab a large spoon and gently smash some of the beans against the side of the crock pot. This will create a delightful creaminess that makes the soup just irresistible.
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and there you have it: a hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Ham and Beans that will warm you from the inside out. You might even find yourself feeling like a kitchen superstar.
Slow Cooker Ham and Beans Substitutions & Variations
There are countless ways to put your own spin on Slow Cooker Ham and Beans, making it a versatile dish that suits a variety of tastes.
For instance, if you’re not a fan of navy beans, try using pinto or black beans instead—they’ll add a different flavor profile. You can also swap the ham bone for smoked sausage or turkey for a lighter option.
Don’t forget about the veggies! Toss in diced bell peppers or green beans for extra color and nutrition. If you want a kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Finally, for a richer taste, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the flavors. Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
While Slow Cooker Ham and Beans is a hearty meal on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience.
I love serving it with some warm, crusty cornbread; it’s perfect for soaking up all the delicious broth. A simple green salad adds a revitalizing crunch, balancing the richness of the ham and beans.
If you’re feeling adventurous, some sautéed greens like collard or kale can bring a nice flavor contrast. For a bit of sweetness, roasted sweet potatoes are always a hit.
I’ve even enjoyed it with pickled vegetables for a tangy twist. These sides not only complement the dish but also make the meal feel more complete and satisfying. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
Serving Slow Cooker Ham and Beans with complementary sides can enhance the meal, but there are also some tips to keep in mind for the best results.
First, soaking the beans overnight is essential; it helps them cook evenly and become tender. If you’re short on time, a quick soak method works too—just boil the beans for a few minutes, then let them sit for an hour.
When shredding the ham, don’t hesitate to mix it back into the beans; it adds flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with spices like thyme or smoked paprika for added depth.
Finally, if you want a thicker consistency, simply mash some beans against the sides of the crock pot before serving. Enjoy!