When it comes to cozy comfort food, few dishes beat a hearty bowl of ham and beans made in the crockpot.
Slow cooking allows the beans to become perfectly tender while the ham infuses the dish with rich, smoky flavor.
This classic recipe has been a staple for generations, offering a budget-friendly, protein-packed meal that feeds the whole family.
We’ll explore why crockpot ham and beans are so beloved, tips for making them perfect every time, and provide a simple recipe you can try today.
Why Ham and Beans in the Crockpot Work So Well
The beauty of crockpot cooking is its “set it and forget it” convenience.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a wholesome dinner that cooks low and slow while you go about your day.
Here’s why this dish stands out:
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Flavorful – Ham bones or diced ham add a smoky, savory richness to the beans.
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Nutritious – Beans are high in protein, fiber, and minerals, making this dish both filling and healthy.
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Budget-Friendly – Dried beans are inexpensive, and using leftover ham or a ham bone stretches your grocery budget.
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Versatile – Add veggies, spices, or even a touch of sweetness (like brown sugar or molasses) to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most ham and beans crockpot recipes call for just a handful of pantry staples. Here’s a classic version:
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1 lb dried navy beans (or great northern beans)
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1 ham bone with meat (or 2 cups diced ham)
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 carrots, sliced
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2 celery stalks, sliced
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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6 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
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1 bay leaf
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1 tsp black pepper
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Salt to taste (add at the end so beans don’t toughen)
Instructions
1. Soak the Beans (Optional): Rinse beans and soak overnight for quicker cooking. If short on time, use the quick-soak method by boiling beans for 5 minutes, then draining.
2. Add Ingredients to Crockpot: Place beans, ham bone (or diced ham), onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, and broth into the crockpot.
3. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–6 hours, until beans are tender.
4. Shred Ham: Remove ham bone, shred any meat, and return it to the crockpot.
5. Season and Serve: Add salt, pepper, and any extra seasonings to taste. Serve with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Also Check: Frozen chicken crockpot recipes
Tips for the Best Crockpot Ham and Beans
Use Leftover Ham: After holidays, a ham bone with some meat attached is perfect for this dish.
Don’t Add Salt Early: Salt can make beans tough if added at the start; wait until they’re fully cooked.
Add Flavor Boosters: Try a pinch of smoked paprika, thyme, or even a splash of apple cider vinegar before serving.
Make it Creamy: Mash some beans against the side of the crockpot before serving for a thicker, creamier texture.
Variations to Try
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Ham and Bean Soup: Add extra broth for a soupier consistency.
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Ham and Black Beans: Swap navy beans for black beans for a heartier flavor.
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Spicy Ham and Beans: Add diced jalapeños or chili powder for a kick.
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Ham, Beans, and Greens: Stir in kale or spinach at the end of cooking for extra nutrition.
Read More: Beef chuck roast recipes crockpot
Ham and Beans crockpot recipes
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse beans and soak overnight (optional but recommended). Drain before using.
- Place beans, ham bone (or diced ham), onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, and broth into the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–6 hours, until beans are tender.
- Remove ham bone, shred any meat, and return it to the crockpot.
- Season with salt, pepper, and additional spices if desired.
- Serve warm with cornbread or crusty bread.
Read More: Whole Chicken Crockpot Recipes
Ham and beans crockpot recipes are a timeless comfort food that’s easy, affordable, and deeply satisfying.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready to warm your family’s table.
Whether you’re using a holiday ham bone or leftover diced ham, this dish proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
