This Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup is a comforting, hearty meal perfect for chilly days. It combines the smoky flavor of ham with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, complemented by aromatic vegetables and a touch of smoked paprika. Whether cooked in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach or on the stovetop for a quicker meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or olive oil)
- 1 large white or yellow onion, diced small
- 1 carrot, peeled, trimmed, and sliced thinly
- 3 to 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 or 3 fresh thyme sprigs (or 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Three 15-ounce cans cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed (low or no-salt added if possible)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock (low or no-salt added)
- 1 pound ham, cubed (about 3 cups) – See Notes
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika may be substituted)
Instructions
Slow Cooker Instructions:
- Sauté the Onion:
- In a large skillet, add the butter (or olive oil) and onion.
- Sauté over medium-high heat for 5 minutes, stirring intermittently.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Transfer the sautéed onion to a 7 to 8-quart slow cooker.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the slow cooker.
- Cook the Soup:
- Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Stovetop Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, add the butter (or olive oil) and onion.
- Sauté over medium-high heat for 5 minutes, stirring intermittently.
- Add the carrot and sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring intermittently.
- Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, stirring nearly constantly.
- Cook the Soup:
- Add all remaining ingredients to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low or low, and simmer for approximately 20 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips
- Choosing Ham: Use a ham steak, leftover ham from a holiday meal, or a pre-cooked ham from the deli. The smoky flavor of the ham greatly enhances the soup’s taste.
- Smoked Paprika: If you can find smoked paprika, it adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If not, regular paprika will still give a nice taste.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers for an easy meal later.
Notes
- Ham Substitutes: If you don’t have ham, you can use cooked bacon or smoked sausage for a different but equally delicious flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as celery, bell peppers, or even potatoes to make the soup more robust.
- Salt Content: If using regular canned beans and stock, be cautious with adding additional salt. Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
This Ham and Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Enjoy this easy, nourishing soup that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out!
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