Slow cooker ham and bean soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a hearty, flavorful meal. This classic dish is incredibly easy to make, letting your slow cooker do all the work. Whether you’re using leftover ham or a ham bone, the result is a rich, savory soup packed with tender beans and smoky ham. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best products to help you achieve soup perfection.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Slow Cooker Ham And Bean Soup Resources – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Hamilton Beach 33195 Slow Cooker
The Hamilton Beach 33195 Slow Cooker is an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves to entertain or has a large family. Its massive 10-quart capacity means you can easily cook enough slow cooker ham and bean soup to feed a crowd of 12 or more, fitting even a 10 lb turkey! The portability and secure lid lock are perfect for taking your delicious creations to gatherings without worrying about spills. This slow cooker is designed for both convenience and flavor, making meal prep a breeze.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extra-large 10-quart capacity for big meals
- ✓ Portable design with a secure lid lock for spill-free transport
- ✓ Easy-to-use manual controls for simple operation
- ✓ Dishwasher-safe stoneware and lid for effortless cleanup
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Hamilton Beach 33195 for its generous capacity and travel-friendly features. It takes the stress out of preparing large meals, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company and the food. This is a fantastic choice for anyone who frequently hosts or brings dishes to potlucks.
Best For
This slow cooker is best for large families, party hosts, and anyone who loves to cook in bulk. It’s also ideal for meal prepping week-long servings of hearty soups like slow cooker ham and bean soup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive capacity is perfect for large gatherings.
- Locking lid makes it easy and safe to transport.
- Durable and reliable for frequent use.
- Easy to clean thanks to dishwasher-safe parts.
Cons:
- Takes up significant counter or storage space due to its size.
- Manual controls may be less precise than digital settings for some users.
Customer Reviews
“Excellent Portable Slow Cooker! The Hamilton Beach Stay or Go 33261 is exactly what I needed. The portable design with a locking lid makes it ideal for transporting meals without spills — perfect for parties, road trips, and family gatherings. The 6-quart capacity easily feeds a crowd. It heats evenly.”
“I didn’t realize this didn’t have an indicator light on it. 😜. When I plugged it in and turned it on there was no light. I thought it didn’t work or my electric was out in that socket! 😜 It does work great and high is HOT. Love that it is very large and has different temperatures. Great for big g…”
2. Campbell’s Chunky Hearty Bean & Ham Soup, 19 Oz Cans (4 Pack)
For those times when you need a quick and satisfying meal without the prep, Campbell’s Chunky Hearty Bean & Ham Soup is a fantastic option. This pack of four 19 oz cans delivers a hearty blend of ham, beans, and vegetables, perfect for a simple lunch or a fast dinner. It’s a convenient way to enjoy a comforting flavor profile reminiscent of homemade soup, ready in minutes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Convenient pack of four 19 oz cans
- ✓ Hearty combination of ham, beans, and vegetables
- ✓ Ready to heat and serve in minutes
- ✓ Classic, comforting flavor
Why We Recommend It
This soup is a lifesaver on busy days. It provides that comforting, savory taste of ham and bean soup when you don’t have the time to make it from scratch. It’s a reliable choice for a quick, filling meal that satisfies.
Best For
Perfect for busy individuals, students, or anyone needing a fast, warm meal. It’s also great for stocking your pantry for those unexpected cravings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely convenient and quick to prepare.
- Satisfying flavor profile with chunks of ham and beans.
- Good value when purchased in a multi-pack.
Cons:
- Higher sodium content compared to homemade soup.
- Texture and flavor are not a perfect match for freshly made soup.
Customer Reviews
“With something else on the side, it makes a quick, filling meal for a ‘couch potato’ winter day. I like the hearty consistency and taste, so stopping at one portion is a challenge. I wish the sodium content was lower. Campbell make a bean&bacon soup in a ‘lower sodium’ variety. I’ll try that next.”
“I like this soup when I don’t have time to cook a pot of my own. I like a smaller bean but like I said, it’s good in a pinch, a quick lunch or even for dinner if you’re lazy. I forget the ingredients but had a lot of carrots and the ham looked fatty, had a pretty good flavor but I prefer my own bean…”
3. Hamilton Beach 33665G Slow Cooker
The Hamilton Beach 33665G Slow Cooker offers fantastic value for its price, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious cooks. With a 6-quart capacity, it’s perfect for feeding a family of 7 or more, and the three settings (Low, High, and Warm) provide flexibility for various recipes, including a comforting bowl of slow cooker ham and bean soup. The dishwasher-safe stoneware and glass lid simplify cleanup, ensuring you spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Generous 6-quart capacity for family-sized meals
- ✓ Three convenient heat settings (Low, High, Warm)
- ✓ Easy-grip handles for safe transport
- ✓ Dishwasher-safe stoneware and glass lid for easy cleanup
Why We Recommend It
This Hamilton Beach model is a reliable workhorse that doesn’t break the bank. It delivers consistent results for all your slow cooking needs, making it a great starter slow cooker or a dependable replacement. It’s a solid choice for everyday meals.
Best For
Ideal for small to medium families, couples, or individuals looking for an affordable yet effective slow cooker. It’s perfect for weekly meal prep and simple, delicious dinners.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point.
- Versatile 6-quart size is suitable for many households.
- Easy to operate with simple manual settings.
- Cleanup is a breeze.
Cons:
- Lacks digital programming or timers found on more advanced models.
- Handle design could be sturdier for very heavy loads.
Customer Reviews
“Great size for a crockpot – did great for first usage!! The price was great for replacing a dropped & broken old crockpot! I love the handles – both on the lid & base.”
“This 6 quart slow cooker is a good size for a small family. Not too big or too small. Can fit a whole chicken in it! It has 4 settings: on, off, low,& high, and all settings work as they should. A very easy appliance to use.I recently used it for a chili cookout & it kept chili at a consistent low t…”
4. Paris Hilton 6-Quart Manual Slow Cooker
Looking for a slow cooker that’s both functional and stylish? The Paris Hilton 6-Quart Manual Slow Cooker in Berry is a great choice. It offers a generous 6-quart capacity, perfect for making dishes like slow cooker ham and bean soup for family dinners. The simple manual controls and the naturally nonstick stoneware insert make cooking and cleanup a breeze. Plus, its attractive design adds a touch of flair to your kitchen counter.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Chic berry color adds a pop of style
- ✓ 6-quart capacity serves 7+ people
- ✓ Naturally nonstick stoneware insert (PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, PFOS free)
- ✓ Easy-to-use Low, High, and Warm settings
Why We Recommend It
This slow cooker combines aesthetics with practicality. It’s a reliable appliance that cooks food evenly and is easy to clean, all while looking great on your countertop. It’s a solid option for everyday use.
Best For
Ideal for home cooks who appreciate a blend of style and functionality. Perfect for families and those who entertain occasionally, making dishes like slow cooker ham and bean soup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Attractive design and color options.
- Nonstick surface is easy to clean and cook on.
- Good capacity for family meals.
- Budget-friendly.
Cons:
- Manual controls are basic, lacking advanced features.
- The external casing can get quite warm during operation.
Customer Reviews
“This well-made, economical slow cooker gets the job done. I love the color, size, and it’s effective heating capacity. I’ve used it 5 times since purchasing it a couple weeks ago. Very easy to use and worth the money.”
“The Paris Hilton slow cooker is aesthetically beautiful, the size is perfect we will be able to cook a lot of meals in it for our family. Also it works great, so easy to use, and it was an excellent price. The fact that it is white with gold hardware was an added bonus!!!”
5. The Incredible Ham Cookbook
While not a slow cooker itself, The Incredible Ham Cookbook is an invaluable resource for anyone who loves to cook with ham, especially in a slow cooker. This cookbook is packed with delicious and enjoyable recipes for every occasion, offering creative ways to use leftover ham or prepare ham dishes from scratch. It’s perfect for expanding your repertoire beyond basic slow cooker ham and bean soup and exploring the versatility of ham.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extensive collection of diverse ham recipes
- ✓ Suitable for all skill levels and occasions
- ✓ Inspires creativity in the kitchen
- ✓ Features recipes perfect for slow cooker adaptation
Why We Recommend It
This cookbook is a treasure trove for ham lovers. It provides inspiration and practical guidance to make the most of ham in various culinary creations. It’s a fantastic companion for any kitchen, especially one that utilizes a slow cooker frequently, perhaps for holiday ham.
Best For
Anyone who enjoys cooking with ham, looking for new recipe ideas, or wants to master ham dishes. It’s especially useful for those who love to experiment with slow cooker dump recipes that feature ham.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Offers a wide variety of creative ham recipes.
- Recipes are generally easy to follow.
- Inspires new ways to cook and serve ham.
- Great for using up leftover ham.
Cons:
- Some recipes may require specific ingredients or equipment.
- Not all recipes are specifically designed for slow cookers, requiring adaptation.
Customer Reviews
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Complete Buying Guide for Slow Cooker Ham And Bean Soup
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the perfect slow cooker for making delicious slow cooker ham and bean soup, we look at several key factors. Capacity is crucial; a 6-quart or larger slow cooker is ideal for most families. We also prioritize ease of use, with simple controls and clear settings. Cleanup is another major consideration, so dishwasher-safe stoneware and lids are a big plus. Finally, features like portability and lid locking mechanisms are important if you plan to take your soup to potlucks or gatherings. For those looking for specific functionalities, exploring dual-zone models or culinary series can offer advanced cooking options.
Budget Planning
Slow cookers vary significantly in price, from budget-friendly models to high-end premium options. For making soups like slow cooker ham and bean soup, you don’t necessarily need the most expensive unit. Many reliable and effective slow cookers, like the Hamilton Beach models featured, offer excellent performance without a hefty price tag. We’ve highlighted a great budget option that still delivers on quality and functionality, ensuring you can enjoy hearty meals without overspending. Consider your needs: a simple manual slow cooker is often sufficient for basic recipes, while digital models offer more programmability for complex dishes or for those who want to convert stovetop recipes.
Final Thoughts
Making slow cooker ham and bean soup is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you choose a large-capacity cooker for entertaining, a compact one for smaller households, or a simple, no-fuss model, the joy of a home-cooked meal is unparalleled. Remember to consider factors like ease of cleaning and portability when making your selection. For more ideas on using your slow cooker, check out our guides on family meals or explore other soup recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of ham is best for slow cooker ham and bean soup?
A: Leftover ham, ham bones, or diced ham work wonderfully. A ham bone adds incredible depth of flavor to the broth. Fully cooked ham, diced, is also a great option for convenience.
Q: Can I use dried beans or canned beans for this soup?
A: You can use either! Dried beans require soaking and longer cooking times, while canned beans are a quick option and can be added towards the end of the cooking cycle. Ensure dried beans are fully cooked before serving.
Q: How long does slow cooker ham and bean soup typically take to cook?
A: With dried beans, it can take 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. If using canned beans, the soup usually needs about 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high to meld flavors.
Q: What can I serve with slow cooker ham and bean soup?
A: Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad make excellent accompaniments. It’s a hearty soup that’s satisfying on its own.
Q: How do I store leftover ham and bean soup?
A: Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for longer storage.
There you have it – our top picks and guides to help you create the most delicious slow cooker ham and bean soup! Investing in the right slow cooker can transform your meal prep, making it easier and more enjoyable to cook comforting dishes. Explore these options and get ready to savor a bowl of hearty, homemade goodness.
