Crockpot White Bean Ham: 5 Hearty Comfort Food Recipes

October 18, 2025

Crockpot White Bean Ham has been my go-to recipe for chilly evenings when I crave something warm and comforting. I still remember the first time I made it; the aroma of simmering ham and spices filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. This dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover ham, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With tender beans and hearty vegetables, every spoonful is a delightful experience. Whether you’re coming home after a long day or hosting friends, this meal never disappoints. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot White Bean Ham

Quick and easy to prepare – just toss everything in and forget about it.
Perfect for using up leftover ham, reducing food waste.
Hearty and satisfying, making it great for chilly nights.
Rich in protein and fiber from the beans and ham.
Versatile – you can add your favorite vegetables.
Ideal for meal prep; it stores well for lunches and dinners.
Slow cooker white bean ham is a family-friendly meal.
Budget-friendly, using pantry staples and leftover ingredients.

Ingredients for Crockpot White Bean Ham

Here’s everything you need for this delicious slow cooker dish:

1 pound dried great northern or navy beans – or 3 cans, drained and rinsed for convenience
1 ½ pounds ham bone, ham hock, or diced leftover ham – for that smoky, savory flavor
1 medium onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth
3 carrots, peeled and sliced – for sweetness and texture
2 celery stalks, diced – for crunch and flavor
3 cloves garlic, minced – enhances the overall aroma
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth – or vegetable broth for a lighter option
1 teaspoon dried thyme – brings a lovely earthiness
1 bay leaf – adds an aromatic touch
½ teaspoon black pepper – for a hint of spice
Salt to taste – add at the end, depending on the saltiness of the ham
1 cup chopped kale or spinach – for added greens and nutrients

How to Make Crockpot White Bean Ham

Step 1: If using dried beans, rinse and soak them overnight. Drain before cooking.
Step 2: Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
Step 3: Add the soaked (or canned) beans to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 4: Place the ham bone, ham hock, or diced ham on top.
Step 5: Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Step 6: Sprinkle in the thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf.
Step 7: Pour in the chicken broth until all ingredients are submerged.
Step 8: Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until beans are tender and ham is falling apart.
Step 9: Remove the ham bone or hock. Shred any meat and return it to the pot.
Step 10: Discard the bay leaf.
Step 11: Mash some beans with a spoon or use an immersion blender for a thicker consistency, if desired.
Step 12: Taste and adjust with salt or additional pepper as needed.
Step 13: Serve warm with bread, salad, or your favorite side dish.

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Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot White Bean Ham

These tricks guarantee success every time:

Always soak your beans overnight for better texture and flavor.
Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or potatoes.
For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot White Bean Ham?

The secret lies in using a quality ham bone or hock. It infuses the dish with an unbeatable smoky flavor that sets it apart.

Can I make Crockpot White Bean Ham ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crockpot White Bean Ham?

Don’t skip soaking your beans, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Also, avoid over-salting until the end to control the flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot White Bean Ham

For a complete meal, serve this dish alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with a tangy coleslaw or roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it over rice or quinoa for a heartier option.

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Nutrition Facts for Crockpot White Bean Ham

Per serving (recipe makes 6-8 servings):

Calories: 310
Protein: 20g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 10g
Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot White Bean Ham

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot White Bean Ham

What is white bean ham soup?

White bean ham soup is a hearty dish made with white beans, ham, and vegetables, simmered together to create a flavorful and comforting meal.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes! If you’re short on time, using canned beans is a great way to speed up the process. Just rinse and drain them before adding.

What goes well with white bean ham?

This soup pairs wonderfully with cornbread, a side salad, or even a light pasta dish for a complete meal experience.

Variations of Crockpot White Bean Ham You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of beans like pinto or black beans for a unique twist. You can also adjust the spices to include rosemary or sage for added flavor. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked paprika and add more veggies.