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

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

As the chill of winter settles in, nothing feels more inviting than a warm bowl of stew simmering on the counter, filling the air with the comforting aromas of home. Today, I’m excited to share with you my beloved recipe for Easy Slow Cooked 15 Bean Soup with Ham. This delightful dish takes me back to evenings spent by the fire, wrapped in a cozy blanket, with the soft sounds of my family laughing and sharing stories. It’s a recipe that brings warmth, not just in its rich flavors but in the memories it holds. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: With protein-rich beans and ham, this soup is incredibly filling, making it perfect for a hearty winter dinner.
• Wholehearted Flavors: Each spoonful bursts with flavor from tender vegetables, savory broth, and zesty seasonings.
• Easy Prep: Just toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, and let time do the magic—no fussing required!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It’s even better the next day!
• Customizable: This 15 bean soup is versatile—add your favorite spices or veggies for a personal twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Slow Cooked 15 Bean Soup with Ham | Hearty Winter Dinner

• 1 package 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: 1 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 well and soak it overnight in water. Drain before use.
2. In a crockpot, combine the soaked beans, diced ham, chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and cumin. If you’re using a bay leaf, toss that in too.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Stir everything to combine, cover the crockpot, and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for about 4 hours until the beans are tender and the broth is deliciously rich.
5. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Fun Ways to Customize It

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a zesty heat that warms you from the inside out.
• Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of cream right before serving for a rich finish.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in chopped spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for an additional dose of nutrients and color.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch that makes your soup feel even more homey.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make-Ahead Magic: This soup is perfect for meal prep—make it over the weekend and enjoy it throughout the busy week.
• Ingredient Swaps: Don’t have ham on hand? Substitute with turkey bacon or even just add more vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Storage Savvy: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Prep Tip: For easier chopping, dice your vegetables while the beans are soaking the night before.

Nutrition Information per Serving

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Sodium: 550 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to swap out ham for turkey bacon or increase the variety of veggies.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully!

How long does it last?
When stored properly, both refrigerated and frozen versions last several days and months, respectively.

A Cozy Closing Note

This Easy Slow Cooked 15 Bean Soup with Ham is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, a reminder of home, and an invitation to gather around the table. It’s nourishing, simple to prepare, and oh-so-satisfying. Be sure to save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!