Easy Slow Cooked 15 Bean Soup with Ham | Hearty Winter Dinner

Easy Slow Cooked 15 Bean Soup with Ham | Hearty Winter Dinner

As the chill of winter wraps its icy fingers around our homes, nothing brings warmth and comfort like a hearty bowl of soup. Inspired by cozy evenings spent huddled around the dinner table, this Easy Slow Cooked 15 Bean Soup with Ham is a nostalgic homage to family meals and the rich flavors of the season. The thick, creamy texture of the soup embraces tender beans and savory ham, awakening fond memories with every spoonful. This is the perfect easy weeknight dinner to chase away the winter blues, and you’ll find it’s a delightful recipe that makes your kitchen smell incredible!

This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe is a breeze to make, perfect for busy weeknights. Just set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work!
• Incredible Flavor: The combination of ham and the 15 bean mix offers a depth of flavor that is hearty and satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the rich taste, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein and fiber.
• Customizable: This soup adapts well to your preferences—add vegetables, spices, or even swaps for the meat!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s even better the next day after the flavors have melded!

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients for a comforting pot of soup:

• 15 bean mix
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Bay leaf, parsley for garnish

How to Make Easy Slow Cooked 15 Bean Soup with Ham | Hearty Winter Dinner

1. Rinse the 15 bean mix and soak it overnight in water. Drain before use.
2. In a crockpot, combine the soaked beans, ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and bay leaf if using.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until beans are tender.
5. Adjust seasoning as needed, and garnish with parsley before serving.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty twist.
• Veggie Lovers: Stir in some spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking for a burst of color and nutrition.
• Creamy Addition: For a richer texture, swirl in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
• Hearty Grain: Serve it over cooked quinoa or rice to make it an even more filling meal.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make-Ahead Advice: You can soak the 15 bean mix in the morning and start your crockpot in the afternoon for an easy evening meal.
• Storage Suggestions: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. It also freezes beautifully, so don’t hesitate to save some for later!
• Ingredient Swaps: If ham isn’t your favorite, try using turkey bacon or shredded chicken for a lighter option.
• Slicing Tricks: A quick tip for chopping onions and carrots: use a sharp knife for cleaner cuts and to make your prep faster!

Nutrition Information per Serving

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fat: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 600mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can prepare this soup a day in advance and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the ham with turkey bacon or a different protein of your choice.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

How long does it last?
When properly stored, this soup lasts about 5 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

A Cozy Closing Note

This Easy Slow Cooked 15 Bean Soup with Ham is not just a meal—it’s a memory in a bowl. It brings warmth to those chilly winter evenings and fills your home with an inviting aroma. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Enjoy every comforting bite!