There’s nothing quite like coming home to the smell of a warm, hearty soup simmering in the crockpot. Crockpot white bean and ham soup is one of those timeless comfort meals—simple, nourishing, and packed with the kind of slow-cooked flavor that only gets better with time.

This soup blends tender white beans, smoky ham, vegetables, and herbs into a silky, savory broth that feels like pure comfort in a bowl. It’s budget-friendly, incredibly easy to prepare, and perfect for cold evenings, leftover ham, or effortless weeknight dinners. With the crockpot doing all the work, you get maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Why This Crockpot Soup Is So Delicious

Every part of this recipe works together to create rich, balanced flavor:

White beans become soft and creamy as they simmer.
Ham adds depth, smokiness, and heartiness.
Onions, carrots, and celery build a classic aromatic base.
Slow cooking gently melds everything, giving you a broth that tastes like it simmered all day.
Herbs and garlic bring warmth, aroma, and layers of savory flavor.

The result is a cozy, filling soup that feels homemade and wholesome without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Equipment You’ll Need

Slow cooker (crockpot)
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or ladle
Mixing spoon

Ingredients List for Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup

Soup Base

1 lb dried white beans (navy, great northern, or cannellini)
1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced leftover ham
1 large onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

1 cup diced potatoes
A splash of cream for extra richness
Spinach or kale for a leafy boost

Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings

Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high
Total Time: 6–8 hours
Servings: 6–8 servings

How to Make Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup

This soup is incredibly forgiving and easy to customize, making it a staple for busy households.

Step 1. Prepare the Beans

If using dried beans, rinse them and check for any debris. Soaking overnight is optional but can help reduce cooking time and improve texture.

Expert Tip: If you forget to soak the beans, don’t worry—slow cooking handles them well. Just expect slightly longer cooking time.

Step 2. Layer the Ingredients

Place the beans in the bottom of the crockpot. Add diced onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and any optional vegetables you’re using.

Nestle the ham bone into the pot or sprinkle diced ham over the top.

Step 3. Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, then add bay leaves, dried thyme, parsley, and a light pinch of salt and pepper.

Remember to go easy on the salt at the beginning—ham can release plenty of salt as it cooks.

Step 4. Slow Cook Until Tender

Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beans are soft and the ham is falling off the bone.

As the soup cooks, the broth thickens naturally and becomes creamy as the beans break down.

Step 5. Remove the Ham Bone and Adjust the Soup

Once everything is tender, remove the ham bone and discard it. Shred any meat and return it to the crockpot.

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs.

If you want a slightly thicker texture, lightly mash some of the beans with a spoon and stir.

Step 6. Finish and Serve

Serve hot with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or cracked black pepper.

This soup is even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen.

Why This Soup Is So Nourishing

Crockpot white bean and ham soup provides both comfort and nutrition:

High protein content from ham and beans keeps you full and energized.
Fiber-rich beans support digestion and steady energy.
Vegetables contribute vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Slow cooking preserves texture and enhances flavor without needing excess fat.
Perfect cold-weather meal that warms you from the inside out.

It’s wholesome, affordable, and deeply satisfying—ideal for family dinners or meal prep.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

This recipe is incredibly flexible. Try any of these twists to make it your own:

Herb Boost

Add rosemary, sage, or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.

Creamy Style

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.
Blend 1–2 cups of soup for a thicker, creamier base.

Veggie-Packed Version

Add kale, spinach, zucchini, or potatoes for extra heartiness.

Spicy Kick

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.

Ham Alternatives

Smoked turkey legs
Leftover holiday ham
Cooked bacon bits for topping

What to Serve With Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup

This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but these sides make the meal even better:

Warm cornbread
Toasted sourdough or baguette
Garden salad with vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables
Biscuits or dinner rolls

The soup’s savory, smoky flavor pairs beautifully with anything fresh or lightly sweet.

Meal Prep, Storage & Freezing Tips

This is an excellent make-ahead soup because the flavors intensify as it rests.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

Expert Tips for Best Results

Go Easy on Seasoning at First

Ham varies in saltiness. Adjust flavor at the end to avoid oversalting.

Use Low-Sodium Broth

This gives you more control over the final taste.

Don’t Rush the Cooking Time

Beans need slow, gentle heat for the perfect creamy consistency.

Use Ham Bone When Possible

It adds richer flavor and creates a naturally savory broth.

Nutritional Facts (Approx. per Serving)

Calories: 280–330
Protein: 22–26g
Carbohydrates: 28–32g
Fat: 6–9g
Fiber: 8–10g

Values vary depending on type of beans, amount of ham, and optional add-ins.

For another cozy dinner idea, consider making Pork Tenderloin with Dijon Cream Sauce, Slow Cooker Pot Roast with Vegetables, or Crock Pot Cheesesteak Tortellini.

Crockpot White Bean and Ham Soup

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 8

Total Time 8 15

Servings: 8 people

Course: dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

Soup Base

1 lb dried white beans navy, great northern, or cannellini
1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced leftover ham
1 large onion diced
3 carrots sliced
3 celery stalks sliced
3 –4 garlic cloves minced
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

1 cup diced potatoes
A splash of cream for extra richness
Spinach or kale for a leafy boost

Equipment

Slow cooker (crockpot)
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or ladle
Mixing spoon

Method

Prepare the Beans

If using dried beans, rinse them and check for any debris. Soaking overnight is optional but can help reduce cooking time and improve texture.
Expert Tip: If you forget to soak the beans, don’t worry—slow cooking handles them well. Just expect slightly longer cooking time.

Layer the Ingredients

Place the beans in the bottom of the crockpot. Add diced onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and any optional vegetables you’re using.
Nestle the ham bone into the pot or sprinkle diced ham over the top.

Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, then add bay leaves, dried thyme, parsley, and a light pinch of salt and pepper.
Remember to go easy on the salt at the beginning—ham can release plenty of salt as it cooks.

Slow Cook Until Tender

Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beans are soft and the ham is falling off the bone.
As the soup cooks, the broth thickens naturally and becomes creamy as the beans break down.

Remove the Ham Bone and Adjust the Soup

Once everything is tender, remove the ham bone and discard it. Shred any meat and return it to the crockpot.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs.
If you want a slightly thicker texture, lightly mash some of the beans with a spoon and stir.

Finish and Serve

Serve hot with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad. Garnish with fresh parsley or cracked black pepper.
This soup is even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen.

Conclusion

Crockpot white bean and ham soup brings together creamy beans, tender vegetables, and smoky ham for a meal that tastes like it simmered on the stove all day—because it did, without any effort from you. It’s hearty, wholesome, and deeply comforting, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners.

Whether you’re cooking for meal prep, using holiday leftovers, or simply craving a warm bowl of homemade soup, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes. Canned white beans work well—drain and rinse them, and reduce cooking time to 4–5 hours on low.

2. Do I need to soak the beans before using them?

Soaking is recommended for dried beans to ensure even cooking, but quick-soak methods also work.

3. What type of ham is best for this soup?

Leftover ham, ham steak, or a ham bone all add great flavor and richness to the soup.

4. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. The flavors improve overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.

5. Can crockpot white bean and ham soup be frozen?

Yes. Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.