Slow-Cooked Sweet & Smoky Ham and Bean Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a slow-cooked soup that has simmered for hours, filling your home with rich, smoky aromas. Slow-Cooked Sweet & Smoky Ham and Bean Soup is a timeless dish that combines the hearty goodness of beans, the sweet undertones of brown sugar, and the rich, smoky flavor of ham. It’s a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that is more than the sum of its parts. This soup is ideal for cozy evenings, meal prepping, and even special family gatherings.

Jump to Recipe

In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of preparing this classic slow-cooker ham and bean soup. Not only will you learn the recipe, but you’ll also discover tips, variations, and serving ideas that will elevate your cooking experience. By the end of this detailed exploration, you’ll feel equipped to make this comforting, smoky, and slightly sweet soup for yourself, your family, or anyone who craves a satisfying and nourishing meal.

Why Slow-Cooked Ham and Bean Soup is a Timeless Classic

For many, the combination of ham and beans brings back memories of home-cooked meals shared around the table. It’s a dish that transcends generations, making appearances at holiday dinners, potlucks, and quiet weeknight meals. What makes this recipe stand out?

1. Simplicity with Flavor: Despite its humble ingredients, the flavors of ham, beans, and broth transform into something truly special after hours of slow cooking. The ham lends a smoky richness, while the brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness that balances the dish.
2. Budget-Friendly: Great northern beans are a cost-effective ingredient that can stretch your dollar, making this soup an excellent choice for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week.
3. Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this ham and bean soup is not only delicious but also extremely satisfying. One bowl can keep you full and warm for hours.
4. Set It and Forget It: Like most slow-cooker recipes, this dish requires minimal hands-on time. You can load up the ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you go about your day.
5. Versatile for Leftovers: One of the best things about this soup is how well it keeps. Whether you want to enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze it for a later date, it’s an incredibly versatile dish.

Ingredients for Sweet & Smoky Ham and Bean Soup

Before we dive into the instructions, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish shine. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a well-balanced, flavorful soup.

Core Ingredients:

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 2 cups): The onion provides a savory base for the soup. As it cooks down in the crockpot, it imparts a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
• .4 ounces smoked ham hocks, chopped: Ham hocks are the star of this dish. Their smoky, savory flavor infuses the entire soup, giving it that classic ham-and-bean taste. The small bits of ham add texture and richness as well.
• 1 cup brown sugar: The brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the ham. It helps balance the saltiness and adds depth to the broth.
• 1 pound great northern beans, rinsed and sorted: Great northern beans are creamy and mild in flavor, making them the perfect bean for this soup. Their soft texture contrasts beautifully with the smoky ham, and they soak up the flavors of the broth.
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: The broth serves as the base for the soup. It provides moisture for the beans and helps carry the flavors of the ham and seasonings throughout the dish. Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt levels more easily.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor of the soup and helps to season the beans and broth as they cook.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds just a hint of heat and balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and the smokiness of the ham.

Optional Toppings and Accompaniments:

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh, slightly pungent flavor that brightens the dish.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and a cooling contrast to the smoky soup.
• Hot sauce: For those who like a bit of spice, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors.
• Crusty bread: Perfect for dipping, crusty bread adds texture and helps soak up the delicious broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sweet & Smoky Ham and Bean Soup

Let’s walk through the process of preparing this delightful soup, step by step. By following these simple instructions, you’ll have a slow-cooked, flavorful meal that’s ready to enjoy after a day of simmering in the crockpot.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, you’ll need to prep your ingredients:

• Chop the onion: Dice your yellow onion into roughly ½-inch pieces. This size allows the onion to break down during the slow cooking process, integrating seamlessly into the soup.
• Prepare the ham hocks: If your ham hocks aren’t already chopped, cut them into 1-inch chunks. The small size ensures maximum flavor distribution throughout the soup.
• Rinse the beans: It’s important to rinse your beans under cold water before adding them to the slow cooker. This removes any dust or debris and ensures that they are clean and ready to cook.

Step 2: Load Up the Slow Cooker

Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to load everything into the slow cooker:

1. Layer the onions first: Place the chopped onions directly into the bottom of your crockpot. This helps to prevent them from burning or sticking during the long cooking process.
2. Add the ham hocks: Place the chopped ham hocks on top of the onions. The ham hocks will slowly release their smoky flavor as they cook, infusing the soup with rich, savory goodness.
3. Add the beans and seasonings: Next, pour the rinsed beans over the ham and onions. Sprinkle the kosher salt and black pepper evenly over the beans.
4. Add the brown sugar: Sprinkle the brown sugar over the beans. As the soup cooks, the sugar will melt into the broth, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the smokiness of the ham.
5. Pour in the broth: Finally, pour the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth over the beans and ham. Make sure the beans are fully submerged in the liquid. If necessary, add a little more broth or water to ensure everything is covered.

Step 3: Set the Cooker and Forget It

Now that your slow cooker is loaded up, it’s time to set the temperature and let the magic happen:

• Set the slow cooker to LOW: This soup is best cooked on low heat, allowing the beans to slowly absorb the flavors of the ham and broth over several hours.
• Cook for 6-8 hours: The cooking time can vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of your beans, but generally, it will take about 6-8 hours for the beans to become tender and the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

Around the 6-hour mark, check the beans for doneness. Here’s how to tell if the soup is ready:

• Test the beans: Using a fork or your fingers, gently press one of the beans to check its texture. The beans should be creamy and tender on the inside, but not mushy. If they’re still firm, continue cooking for another 1-2 hours, checking periodically.
• Adjust seasoning: Once the beans are fully cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash of hot sauce to suit your taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the soup is fully cooked and seasoned to your liking, it’s time to serve it up. Here’s how to make the most of your Slow-Cooked Sweet & Smoky Ham and Bean Soup:

• Ladle into bowls: Serve the soup piping hot, ladling it into individual bowls.
• Add toppings: If you like, garnish your soup with chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, and a dash of hot sauce for a bit of extra flavor. Don’t forget to serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping!

Serving Suggestions for Sweet & Smoky Ham and Bean Soup

While this soup is a complete meal on its own, there are a few ways to elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas for serving and pairing the soup:

1. Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or a few slices of garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment. The bread is ideal for dipping into the broth and soaking up all the delicious flavors.
2. Side Salad: Pair the soup with a simple green salad for a lighter, refreshing contrast. A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the ham and beans.
3. Pickled Vegetables: Serve the soup with a side of pickled vegetables like cucumbers or carrots. The acidity of the pickles cuts through the richness of the dish and adds a pleasant crunch.
4. Cornbread: If you want to lean into Southern comfort food vibes, cornbread is an excellent side dish. Its slightly sweet flavor pairs well with the smoky and savory notes of the soup.
5. Cheese and Crackers: Serve the soup alongside a small cheese plate with crackers. A sharp cheddar or smoked gouda can enhance the smoky flavors of the soup.

Variations of Slow-Cooked Ham and Bean Soup

While the classic version of Slow-Cooked Sweet & Smoky Ham and Bean Soup is delicious as-is, there are several ways to customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:

1. Add More Vegetables

• Carrots and Celery: Add diced carrots and celery to the soup for extra flavor and texture. These veggies complement the onion and add a touch of sweetness to the broth.
• Bell Peppers: For a slight crunch and a pop of color, stir in chopped bell peppers. They add a fresh, sweet flavor to the dish.

2. Switch Up the Protein

• Sausage: Instead of ham, use smoked sausage or kielbasa. The sausage will add a spicier kick to the soup, giving it a different flavor profile.
• Chicken: For a leaner option, you can replace the ham with shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken thighs.

3. Spice It Up

• Add Heat: If you like spicy food, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup. You can also stir in a few sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Tips for Making the Best Slow-Cooked Ham and Bean Soup

Here are some extra tips to ensure your Slow-Cooked Sweet & Smoky Ham and Bean Soup turns out perfect every time:

• Use Fresh Beans: While dried beans are typically shelf-stable for a long time, older beans can take longer to cook and may not soften as well. Be sure to use relatively fresh beans for the best results.
• Adjust the Cooking Time: Every slow cooker is different, so keep an eye on your soup during the final hour of cooking. If your beans are still a bit firm after 6 hours, you may need to extend the cooking time.
• Taste Before Serving: Before serving, always taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on your preferences, you may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar for acidity.

Conclusion: A Slow-Cooked Masterpiece

There’s something magical about the way a slow cooker can transform a handful of ingredients into a flavorful, comforting dish that warms both the body and soul. Slow-Cooked Sweet & Smoky Ham and Bean Soup is the kind of meal that brings people together, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch after a long day.

With its combination of creamy beans, sweet brown sugar, smoky ham, and rich broth, this soup is the epitome of comfort food. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different proteins, vegetables, or spices, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

The next time you’re craving a simple, satisfying meal, grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen. After a few hours of gentle simmering, you’ll have a steaming pot of deliciousness that’s sure to become a family favorite.