Introduction
Slow Cooker Ham and White Bean Soup is a comforting, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you have leftover ham. Tender white beans simmer slowly with smoky ham, onions, garlic, and flavorful seasonings to create a rich, hearty soup that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work.
Instruction
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours on Low or 4–5 hours on High
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
2 cups cooked ham, diced
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
Salt to taste
Method
Add the diced ham, white beans, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
Pour in the chicken broth and water.
Stir in the thyme, onion powder, black pepper, smoked paprika, and bay leaf.
Cover and cook on Low for 7–8 hours or High for 4–5 hours.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans with a spoon and stir them back into the soup.
Taste and adjust the salt if needed.
Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread.
Benefits
High in protein to help keep you full.
Rich in fiber, supporting healthy digestion.
Provides essential vitamins and minerals from beans and vegetables.
A great way to use leftover ham and reduce food waste.
Easy to prepare with minimal hands-on cooking.
Nutrition
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 11 g
Fiber: 8 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: Varies depending on ham and broth used.
Tips
Use dried white beans if preferred, but soak them overnight before cooking.
Add chopped spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes for extra nutrients.
For a thicker soup, blend one cup of the soup and stir it back in.
A splash of lemon juice before serving brightens the flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Ham and White Bean Soup is a warm, nourishing dish that’s packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this easy slow cooker recipe delivers a hearty, delicious meal with very little effort.