Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup

Here’s a hearty, comforting Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup that’s packed with smoky ham, creamy white beans, and savory vegetables—perfect for chilly days or using up leftover ham!

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Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup

Prep Time: 15 mins (optional: soak beans overnight)
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Total Time: 6-8.5 hours
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried great northern beans or navy beans (or 3 cans white beans, drained)
• 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (or water + 2 bouillon cubes)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste (ham adds saltiness—wait until the end!)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (brightens flavors)
• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional, added at the end)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, hot sauce, or crusty bread

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Instructions:

1. Prep the beans (if using dried):

• Quick soak: Cover beans with water, boil for 2 mins, then let sit for 1 hour. Drain.
• Overnight soak: Cover beans with water and soak 8+ hours. Drain.

1. Layer in the crockpot:

• Add soaked (or canned) beans, ham bone or diced ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, broth, thyme, bay leaf, and pepper.

1. Cook:

• Cover and cook on LOW 6-8 hours or HIGH 3-4 hours, until beans are tender.

1. Finish the soup:

• Remove the ham bone (if used), shred any meat, and return it to the pot.
• Stir in kale/spinach and apple cider vinegar. Cook 10-15 more mins until greens wilt.
• Taste and add salt if needed (ham can be salty!). Discard the bay leaf.

1. Serve hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan.

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Tips:

• No ham bone? Use 2 cups diced ham + 1 tsp smoked paprika for depth.
• Creamier texture? Mash some beans with a spoon before serving.
• Instant Pot version: Sauté veggies first, then cook on High Pressure 35 mins (soaked beans) or 45 mins (unsoaked).
• Freezer-friendly: Store for up to 3 months—thaw and reheat with a splash of broth.

This smoky, creamy, and nourishing soup is a budget-friendly crowd-pleaser! Perfect with cornbread or a side salad. 😊🍲

Let me know if you’d like any adjustments!