Go Back
–+ servings
Slow Cooker Ham White Beans pinterest

Slow Cooker Ham White Beans

This classic dish combines protein-rich legumes with savory ham in a preparation method that dates back generations. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, remarkable flavor development, and budget-friendly ingredients that transform into a hearty meal capable of feeding a family for days.
No ratings yet
Print Pin
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: American, Southern
Keyword: Ham and beans, Slow cooker beans, White beans recipe, Ham hock recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Soaking Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 285kcal

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dried white beans Great Northern or Navy beans, soaked overnight
  • 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced leftover ham
  • 1 large onion diced (approximately 1 cup)
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 6-8 cups chicken broth or water
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • salt to taste (usually added at the end as ham provides saltiness)

Instructions

  • Rinse your pre-soaked beans thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris or misshapen beans.
  • Place your ham hock or diced ham at the bottom of your slow cooker.
  • Add the rinsed beans on top, followed by the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
  • Sprinkle in the dried thyme, black pepper, optional cayenne pepper, and tuck in the bay leaf.
  • Pour in your chicken broth or water until the beans are covered by about 2 inches of liquid. Add the apple cider vinegar.
  • Cover your slow cooker and set to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  • About 30 minutes before serving, remove the ham hock (if using), shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings, adding salt only at this point as needed.
  • If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash about 1 cup of beans against the side of the pot and stir back into the mixture.

Notes

Soaking beans reduces cooking time by approximately 25% and helps break down indigestible sugars that can cause digestive discomfort. If you've forgotten to soak overnight, try the quick-soak method: bring beans to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let sit covered for 1 hour.
Adding salt too early can toughen beans, so it's best to add salt only at the end of cooking.
For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot rather than adding flour or cornstarch.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 4g | Sodium: 690mg | Fiber: 16g | Iron: 4.5mg
Tried this recipe?FOLLOW ME @TastyDailyMeals and PIN this recipe