Crock-Pot Ham and Beans: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe for Comfort Food
Are you looking for a hearty, delicious, and easy meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than this Crock-Pot Ham and Beans recipe! This recipe is incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and offering maximum flavor. It's the perfect comfort food that's sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a breeze to prepare. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 lb dried pink beans, rinsed and picked over (cannellini or Great Northern beans work well too)
- 1 lb bone-in ham, cut into 1-inch cubes (leftover ham works perfectly!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions for Crock-Pot Perfection
This recipe couldn't be simpler! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked and flavorful ham and beans:
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Soak the beans overnight (or for at least 6 hours) in plenty of cold water. This significantly reduces cooking time and improves the texture. Drain and rinse the beans before proceeding.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
In your slow cooker or Crock-Pot, layer the following ingredients: the soaked beans, ham, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic.
Step 3: Add the Liquid and Seasonings
Pour the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth over the ingredients. Stir in the brown sugar, molasses, smoked paprika, thyme, and black pepper. Season with salt to taste.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, you can serve your ham and beans as is, or you can add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy with crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations for Your Crock-Pot Ham and Beans
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Add some greens: Throw in a handful of chopped kale or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Make it a complete meal: Add other vegetables like corn, potatoes, or green beans.
- Use different beans: Experiment with other types of beans like kidney beans or black beans. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
This Crock-Pot Ham and Beans recipe is a versatile and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in a deeply satisfying and flavorful meal. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your Crock-Pot, and get ready to enjoy!
