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Cozy Crock Pot Ham Bone and Bean Soup

As the crisp chill of autumn settles in, there’s something irresistibly comforting about a big pot of soup simmering away in the kitchen. The aroma wafting through the air, filled with tender veggies and savory broth, becomes a warm embrace on a cool day. One of my favorite soups to make during this season is my Crock Pot Ham Bone and Bean Soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s a treasure trove of memories, hugs, and happiness in a bowl.

After a festive holiday gathering, I always find there’s something left over—the ham bone, the unsung hero of deliciousness just waiting to shine again. This hearty soup not only transforms leftovers into something magical, but it also delivers a cozy entrancing aroma that fills your home while it’s cooking. If you are looking for an easy weeknight dinner that nourishes both body and soul, then this recipe is for you. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is a satisfying meal that will keep your family full.
Easy Weeknight Dinner: Simply toss everything into your crock pot and let it do the work—perfect for busy days!
Comforting Flavors: The combination of savory ham, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables creates a soul-warming dish.
Versatile and Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your family’s taste and dietary needs.
Using Leftovers: A fantastic way to use that leftover ham bone while minimizing food waste.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crock Pot Ham Bone and Bean Soup

1 leftover ham bone
1 cup dried beans (like navy or great northern)
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make Crock Pot Ham Bone and Bean Soup

Place the ham bone in the crockpot.
Rinse the dried beans and add them to the crockpot.
Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic.
Pour in the broth and add the bay leaf.
Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Once cooked, remove the ham bone, shred any meat from it, and return the meat to the soup.
Discard the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if necessary, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Delicious Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty twist that will warm your soul.
Savory Greens: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale right before serving for a boost of color and nutrients.
Creamy Delight: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk toward the end of cooking for a rich and velvety texture.
Herbed Bliss: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to give your soup a fragrant flair.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Custom Beans: If you prefer using canned beans for convenience, just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them in the last hour of cooking!
Lid On!: Keep the lid on your crock pot while cooking to achieve the best flavor and texture—your patience will pay off.
Freezing Tips: Portion leftovers into freezer-safe bags. This soup freezes beautifully, perfect for an easy future meal.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 230
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 2g
Fat: 4g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 980mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! This soup tastes great when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various veggies, beans, or even different types of broth to match your preferences.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

How long does it last?
The soup can last up to 5 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer if stored correctly.

A Cozy Closing Note

Crock Pot Ham Bone and Bean Soup is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a reminder that simple ingredients can create delightful memories. This recipe brings warmth and comfort, perfect for those cool evenings when you need a little extra love in your life. Save this Crock Pot Ham Bone and Bean Soup to your cozy recipes board so it’s ready when you need a comforting treat! Happy cooking and even happier eating!