If you're on the hunt for the best ham and beans crockpot recipes, you're in for a tasty treat! Imagine this: classic ham and beans, smoky ham and white bean soup, or even sweet and spicy ham and beans. You can whip up barbecue sauce ham and beans or try a fun Cajun twist. Each recipe is a breeze; just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Plus, these meals freeze like champs for those lazy days ahead. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Let's uncover even more delicious ideas that'll wow your dinner crowd!
Main Points
- Classic Ham and Beans is ideal for cold months, combining savory ham and creamy beans for a simple slow-cooked dish.
- Smoked ham and white bean soup offers comforting flavors and customizable ingredients, perfect for utilizing leftover holiday ham.
- Sweet and spicy ham and beans incorporate brown sugar and cayenne for a savory dish with adjustable heat.
- Cajun ham and bean stew introduces vibrant spices, making it a flavorful and quick preparation option.
- Each recipe allows for versatility with different beans and vegetables, enhancing nutrition and flavor profiles.
Classic Ham and Beans
Classic Ham and Beans is a hearty and comforting dish that brings warmth and delicious flavors to the table. This meal is perfect for colder months or when you need a satisfying and simple dinner option. Combining savory ham with creamy beans creates a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it a family favorite.
Plus, cooking it in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully while requiring minimal effort on your part! This recipe isn't only delicious but also very flexible. You can choose your favorite types of beans, and if you have leftover ham from a holiday feast, this is an excellent way to make the most of it.
As the slow cooker does all the work, you can enjoy the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen without needing to monitor the stove constantly. It's the perfect dish to make ahead of time and enjoy all week long, ensuring that savory flavor gets better with each passing day!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried navy beans (or your choice of beans)
- 4 cups water
- 1 lb cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt, to taste
To cook, start by rinsing the dried beans and placing them in the crockpot along with the water. Add in the diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf, then stir everything together.
Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beans are tender. Before serving, remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
When making Classic Ham and Beans, keep in mind that the type of beans you use can affect the cooking time, so be sure to check for doneness if you substitute. Alternatively, you can soak the dried beans overnight to reduce cooking time.
Additionally, feel free to customize the dish by adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or potatoes, for extra flavor and nutrition. This dish also freezes well, so consider making a larger batch to enjoy later!
Smoky Ham and White Bean Soup
Smoky ham and white bean soup is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for chilly nights or any time you're craving something warm and satisfying. Utilizing your crockpot allows the flavors of the smoky ham, tender beans, and savory vegetables to meld beautifully, creating a rich, flavorful soup that's easy to prepare with minimal effort. This recipe is great for using up leftover holiday ham, but it works just as well with store-bought smoked ham hocks or diced ham.
The beauty of this soup is its versatility; it can be customized with your choice of spices, herbs, or even extra vegetables, making it a fantastic way to use up what you have on hand. Pair this soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy. This dish also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and store leftovers for a quick meal later.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried white beans (like Great Northern or Navy beans), rinsed and soaked overnight
- 2 cups diced smoked ham (or ham hock)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
To prepare the smoky ham and white bean soup, drain and rinse the soaked beans and place them in your crockpot. Add the diced ham, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, thyme, smoked paprika, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beans are tender and the flavors are well blended. Discard the bay leaf before serving and adjust seasoning, if necessary.
When making this soup, you can amplify the flavor by using fresh herbs or adding a splash of vinegar just before serving for a bit of tang. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup and then stirring it back into the pot.
Also, keep in mind that the soup may thicken as it cools, so feel free to add extra broth or water when reheating. Enjoy experimenting with additional spices or diced vegetables to make the recipe your own!
Ham and Beans With Barbecue Sauce
When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to a delicious crockpot ham and beans with barbecue sauce. This dish combines the savory flavor of ham with the rich, sweet notes of barbecue sauce, creating a warm and hearty meal that's perfect for any occasion.
The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy days when you want to have a satisfying meal ready when you get home.
This recipe is incredibly simple, making it ideal for novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. Just toss the ingredients into your crockpot, set the timer, and let the magic happen.
With the comforting aroma wafting through your home, you'll be counting down the minutes until you can dig into this flavorful dish. Whether served over rice, alongside cornbread, or simply on its own, ham and beans with barbecue sauce is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
In a large crockpot, combine the diced ham, white beans, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir well to mix all the ingredients together. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the flavors are well blended and the mixture is heated through.
If desired, serve topped with chopped green onions for an added pop of color and fresh flavor.
Extra Tips:
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick.
If you're using leftover ham, this is a perfect way to repurpose it; just be mindful of the saltiness when adding extra seasonings.
You can also switch up the type of barbecue sauce based on your preference; a smoky flavor works particularly well with this recipe.
Additionally, for a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the crockpot. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Cajun Ham and Bean Stew
Cajun Ham and Bean Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Louisiana cuisine straight to your kitchen. Combining the smokiness of ham with the rich and earthy flavors of beans, this stew is infused with vibrant Cajun spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
It's perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and filling, making it a great dinner option for family gatherings or meal prepping for the week ahead.
This stew isn't only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare in a crockpot. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while the beans become tender and creamy. By using precooked ham, you save time without sacrificing taste, making this dish ideal for busy weeknights.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you'll have a comforting meal ready to serve.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried white beans (like Great Northern or Navy)
- 1 pound cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
In your crockpot, combine the dried beans, diced ham, onion, green bell pepper, celery, garlic, and diced tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth and add the Cajun seasoning, black pepper, bay leaf, and salt.
Stir everything together until well mixed. Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6 to 8 hours or until the beans are tender. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the bay leaf before serving.
Garnish with sliced green onions and a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
When cooking Cajun Ham and Bean Stew, it's important to soak the dried beans overnight to guarantee even cooking and to reduce the cooking time. If you forget to soak them overnight, a quick soak method can be applied by boiling them for 2 minutes and then letting them sit in hot water for an hour before draining.
Additionally, feel free to adjust the Cajun seasoning to your spice preference, and consider adding other vegetables such as carrots or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
Enjoy the leftovers the next day; the flavors only get better!
Italian-style Ham and Bean Casserole
Italian-style Ham and Bean Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the richness of ham, the creaminess of white beans, and a delightful assortment of Italian herbs and spices. This comforting casserole is perfect for a family dinner or an inviting gathering with friends. The combination of beans with savory ham makes for an excellent source of protein, ensuring that you feel satisfied and nourished.
Making this dish in a crockpot allows the flavors to blend together beautifully, creating a deliciously hearty and robust meal. As it simmers throughout the day, your kitchen will be filled with a warm and inviting aroma that will make your mouth water. This Italian-style casserole can be served on its own, or paired with a simple salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that's sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and diced ham
- 2 cans (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
To prepare the Italian-style Ham and Bean Casserole, start by placing the cooked ham, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and broth into the crockpot. Add in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper.
Sprinkle the dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir everything together gently to combine. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and flavors have blended together.
Before serving, give the casserole a good stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
When cooking this Italian-style Ham and Bean Casserole, feel free to customize it to your taste. You can add other vegetables such as carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition, or replace the ham with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
To improve the flavors, consider sautéing the onions and garlic beforehand for a deeper flavor. This dish also freezes well, so you can make a larger batch and save leftovers for a future meal—it's just as delicious reheated!
Ham and Great Northern Beans
Ham and great northern beans make for a comforting and hearty meal that's perfect for any time of the year. The combination of savory ham and tender beans creates a dish that's both filling and satisfying. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich broth that's irresistible. This Crockpot version is especially convenient, as you can prepare it in the morning and come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal.
To get the most flavor out of your ham and beans, it's best to use leftover ham or a ham hock, which infuses the dish with smoky goodness. Great northern beans are a perfect choice due to their creamy texture, which complements the other ingredients well. This recipe isn't only easy to make but also a great way to use up leftover ham from holiday festivities, ensuring no food goes to waste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dry great northern beans
- 1 pound cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Rinse the great northern beans under cold water and remove any debris. In your Crockpot, combine the beans, diced ham, chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, broth, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf.
Stir everything well, ensuring the beans are submerged in the liquid. Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or until the beans are tender. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
Extra Tips:
Soaking the beans overnight can help reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest, although it's not necessary for the slow cooker version.
Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the Crockpot before serving.
This dish can also be stored in the refrigerator for several days, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Enjoy your deliciously fragrant ham and great northern beans!
Sweet and Spicy Ham and Beans
Sweet and Spicy Ham and Beans is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of ham with the heartiness of beans and a balanced sweet and spicy kick. Ideal for cool evenings, this comforting recipe not only fills your belly but is also simple to prepare in a slow cooker.
Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or as a potluck dish, the unique blend of ingredients will surely impress anyone who tries it. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a savory, sticky sauce that coats each bean and chunk of ham perfectly.
Plus, the ease of this recipe means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days. With minimal prep time and the magic of a crockpot, you'll have a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried navy beans (rinsed and soaked overnight)
- 2 cups diced smoked ham
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
In your crockpot, combine the soaked beans, diced ham, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, chili powder, cayenne pepper, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker, making sure everything is fully submerged in liquid. Set the crockpot to low heat and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together nicely.
Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, consider using leftover holiday ham, which adds depth to the dish.
Also, if you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ham with smoked paprika and vegetarian broth to achieve a similar rich flavor. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can also improve the sweetness of the dish.
Remember to soak the beans overnight to guarantee even cooking and to prevent any digestive discomfort. Enjoy your culinary creation with cornbread or rice for a complete meal!
Ham and Vegetable Bean Medley
Crockpot Ham and Vegetable Bean Medley is a hearty and nourishing dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner. This recipe beautifully combines the savory flavors of ham with tender beans and fresh vegetables, creating a wholesome meal that warms both the body and soul.
With minimal preparation and the convenience of a slow cooker, it allows you to set it and forget it, making it an ideal option for busy households or for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can use leftover ham, making it a fantastic way to reduce waste while incorporating delicious flavors into your meal. Additionally, the variety of vegetables can be customized based on what you have on hand or what's in season, allowing for a dish that's both flexible and enjoyable.
Serve it with warm crusty bread or over rice for a complete dining experience that will surely satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 pound mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., corn, peas, carrots)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
In a crockpot, combine the diced ham, navy beans, kidney beans, mixed vegetables, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and season with thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
When preparing this dish, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce for an extra kick of flavor. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the crockpot.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors will continue to develop. Reheat thoroughly before serving, and feel free to adjust seasoning as needed!
Slow Cooker Ham and Lentils
Slow Cooker Ham and Lentils is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for chilly days. This recipe combines the smoky flavor of ham with the earthy taste of lentils, creating a delicious meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours, producing a rich, savory dish that requires minimal effort on your part. Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and return home to a warm, inviting aroma and a ready-to-eat dinner.
Lentils aren't only nutritious, packed with protein and fiber, but they also cook down well in a slow cooker, becoming tender and flavorful as they absorb the broth and seasonings. This dish is versatile; you can use leftover ham from a holiday feast or even a ham hock for added depth.
Serve it with crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal, or alongside a simple green salad to round out your dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
In the slow cooker, combine the lentils, diced ham, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the dried thyme and black pepper. Toss in the bay leaf and add salt as desired.
Stir everything to combine, then cover with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender. Before serving, remove the bay leaf, taste for seasoning adjustments, and serve hot.
When cooking Slow Cooker Ham and Lentils, you can customize the recipe based on what you have on hand. Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the lentils with a fork or use an immersion blender at the end of cooking. Additionally, smoked paprika can add another layer of flavor if you're looking for that extra smoky kick. Enjoy!
Ham and Black Bean Chili
Ham and Black Bean Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the rich taste of ham with the earthy goodness of black beans. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck gathering. The slow-cooking method not only melds the flavors beautifully but also allows the beans to become perfectly tender.
With minimal preparation, you can set it and forget it, letting your crockpot do the work while you go about your day. The combination of spices and ingredients gives this chili a delightful kick, balanced with the savory notes of the ham. Serve it with some warm cornbread or over rice for a filling meal.
This recipe isn't just a treat for your taste buds; it also makes for great leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop overnight. Get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of Ham and Black Bean Chili that will warm you up from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, green onions, cilantro
To prepare the Ham and Black Bean Chili, start by adding all of the ingredients to your crockpot. Stir everything together to guarantee all the flavors are well combined. Set the crockpot on low and let it cook for about 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the flavors are rich and the ingredients are heated through.
Near the end of cooking, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. For best results, soak the dried black beans overnight if you choose to use them instead of canned. This will guarantee they cook evenly in the crockpot.
Additionally, feel free to customize the chili by adding more vegetables such as corn or zucchini, or even throw in some extra spice with jalapeños. Leftover chili can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and can also be frozen for later use — just be sure to leave some space in the container as it will expand when frozen.