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Cozy Slow Cooker Ham and White Beans

slow cooker ham and white beans - featured image

A hearty and comforting slow cooker recipe featuring ham and tender white beans, perfect for chilly days or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced ham
  • 1 pound Great Northern beans or Navy beans, rinsed and soaked if dried
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 large carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 2 cups diced potatoes
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Dice the onion, slice the carrots, chop the celery, and mince the garlic. Rinse and soak the beans if using dried.
  2. Add the ham bone or diced ham to the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the beans, veggies, garlic, and seasonings on top.
  3. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients, ensuring everything is submerged.
  4. Cover and set the slow cooker to low. Cook for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
  5. Test the beans for tenderness. They should be creamy and soft.
  6. If using a ham bone, remove it and shred the meat. Stir the shredded meat back into the beans.
  7. Adjust the salt and pepper before serving.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil, and serve with crusty bread.

Notes

[‘If using dried beans, soak them overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture.’, ‘Place the ham on the bottom of the slow cooker for even flavor distribution.’, ‘Reduce the broth slightly for a thicker consistency.’, ‘This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.’, ‘If beans are still firm after cooking, extend the cook time or turn the slow cooker to high for the last hour.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, ham, white beans, comfort food, easy recipe, hearty meal, gluten-free