Ham Bone Soup Slow Cooker Recipe

This slow cooker ham bone soup recipe is a hearty, comforting meal that's perfect for those cold winter nights. The flavors from the ham bone seep into the soup, giving it a rich and savory taste that's truly irresistible. Plus, it's packed with nutritious ingredients like beans, carrots, and onions, making it a wholesome choice for dinner.

Photos of Ham Bone Soup Slow Cooker Recipe

The main ingredient that you might not commonly find in your home is the ham bone. This is usually leftover from a ham roast and adds a ton of flavor to the soup. If you don't have one on hand, you can usually find ham bones in the meat section of your local supermarket.

Ingredients Needed for Slow Cooker Ham Bone Soup

Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the soup.

Carrots: Adds a slight sweetness and gives the soup a heartier texture.

Ham bone: The star of the show, it infuses the soup with a rich, savory flavor.

Dried bean soup mix: Provides a variety of beans that add texture and fiber to the soup.

Low sodium chicken broth: The base of the soup, adds depth of flavor.

Dried thyme: An aromatic herb that enhances the flavor of the soup.

Minced garlic: Adds a spicy, robust flavor.

Diced ham: Adds meatiness and a savory flavor to the soup.

Diced tomatoes: Adds a bit of acidity and sweetness to balance the flavors.

Parsley: Used as a garnish, adds a fresh, bright flavor at the end.

Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the flavors of the soup.

One reader, Aileen Beebe says:

This slow cooker ham bone soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the ham bone adds a depth that is simply irresistible. The ease of using a slow cooker makes it a perfect choice for a cozy, delicious meal. I highly recommend trying it out!

Aileen Beebe

Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Ham Bone Soup

How to prepare the ham bone: Remove any excess meat from the ham bone and ensure it is clean before using it in the soup.

How to dice the ham: Cut the ham into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution in the soup.

How to rinse the beans: Place the dried bean soup mix in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

How to season to taste: Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go, to achieve the desired flavor without oversalting the soup.

How To Make Ham Bone Soup Slow Cooker

Enjoy a flavorful ham bone soup slow cooker filled with beans and veggies in this handy recipe. It’s the best way to use leftover ham!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1yellow onion,peeled and chopped
3carrots,peeled, quartered, and sliced
1ham bone
20ozdried bean soup mix,(1 bag)
8cupslow sodium chicken broth
1tspdried thyme
2tspminced garlic
3cupsdiced ham
15ozdiced tomatoes,undrained (1 can)
¼cupparsley,chopped
salt and pepper,to taste

Instructions

Rinse the beans thoroughly. Set aside the seasoning packet for later use.
Place the onion, carrot, ham bone, beans, chicken broth, thyme, and garlic in a slow cooker.
Cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 8 hours, or until beans are done.
Remove the ham bone from the slow cooker. Stir in the diced ham, tomatoes, seasoning packet, and salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes.
Sprinkle with parsley and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 785.63kcal
Fat: 27.57g
Saturated Fat: 8.80g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.86g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.32g
Carbohydrates: 77.10g
Fiber: 6.30g
Sugar: 6.44g
Protein: 57.45g
Cholesterol: 182.89mg
Sodium: 5438.35mg
Calcium: 133.47mg
Potassium: 1493.46mg
Iron: 5.74mg
Vitamin A: 289.35µg
Vitamin C: 15.97mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Slow Cooker Ham Bone Soup

When preparing your ham bone for the soup, consider roasting it in the oven first. This will caramelize the sugars in the bone and add a depth of flavor to your soup. Simply place the bone on a baking sheet and roast at 400 degrees for about 15-20 minutes before adding it to the slow cooker. This step is optional but can enhance the overall taste of your slow cooker ham bone soup.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Soup Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cooked ham: Consider using pre-cooked ham to save time on preparing the ham bone for the soup.

Quick soak: If you're short on time, quick soak the beans by covering them with boiling water and letting them sit for an hour before using in the recipe.

Pressure cooker: Consider using a pressure cooker to significantly reduce the cooking time for the soup.

Frozen diced vegetables: Use frozen diced vegetables instead of fresh ones to save time on chopping and preparation.

Canned beans: Substitute the dried bean soup mix with canned beans to save time on cooking the beans from scratch.

Pre-made broth: Use pre-made low sodium chicken broth instead of making it from scratch to save time and effort.

Multi-task: While the soup is cooking, use the time to prepare other dishes or complete other tasks in the kitchen to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Ham Bone Soup Slow Cooker Recipe

yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a similar flavor profile to yellow onions and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor than carrots, which can add a unique twist to the soup.
ham bone - Substitute with smoked turkey leg: Smoked turkey leg can provide a similar smoky flavor and richness to the soup as a ham bone.
dried bean soup mix - Substitute with lentils: Lentils can be used as a substitute for dried bean soup mix, providing a similar texture and heartiness to the soup.
low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly.
dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can be used as a substitute for dried thyme, adding a slightly different herbaceous flavor to the soup.
minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for minced garlic, providing a convenient alternative with a milder flavor.
diced ham - Substitute with smoked sausage: Smoked sausage can add a similar savory and smoky flavor to the soup as diced ham.
diced tomatoes - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for diced tomatoes, providing a thicker base for the soup.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, adding a fresh and citrusy flavor to the soup.

Best Way to Serve Ham Bone Soup

Elevate the plating: When presenting this slow cooker ham bone soup, focus on creating a visually appealing presentation. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the layers of ingredients and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Incorporate texture: Add a crunchy element to the dish by serving the soup with a side of warm, crusty artisan bread or a delicate crouton for a contrast in texture.
Highlight the ham bone: Place the ham bone on the side of the bowl as a striking visual element, signaling the rich flavor infused into the soup.
Balance the colors: Ensure the soup is visually balanced by arranging the carrots and diced ham strategically, creating a harmonious color palette that is visually appealing.
Use elegant serving utensils: Opt for high-quality, polished ladles and soup bowls to enhance the sophisticated presentation of the dish.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle the fresh parsley with precision, ensuring it is delicately placed to add a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Slow Cooker Soup

Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering food at a lower temperature over a longer period of time.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Can opener: A tool used for opening cans and tins.
Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring, mixing, and cooking.
Soup ladle: A large, deep spoon with a long handle used for serving soup.
Soup pot: A large, deep cooking pot used for making soups and stews.
Strainer: A kitchen tool used for separating liquids from solids.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and manipulating food.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Ham Bone Soup

Allow the ham bone soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
If using a container, leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and the contents.
Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place the container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat the soup in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Ham Bone Soup

Reheat the ham bone soup in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure even reheating, while also allowing you to adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more broth or water if needed.
If you're short on time, you can reheat individual portions of the soup in the microwave. Transfer the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through.
For a hands-off approach, reheat the leftover soup in a slow cooker. Transfer the soup to the slow cooker, cover, and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is particularly useful if you're reheating a large quantity of soup or if you want to keep the soup warm for an extended period.
If you have an immersion blender, you can use it to blend a portion of the reheated soup to create a thicker, creamier texture. This works particularly well with bean soups like this ham bone soup, as blending some of the beans will help to thicken the broth and create a more luxurious mouthfeel.
To add extra flavor to your reheated soup, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. These toppings can help to brighten up the flavors and make the leftover soup feel like a fresh, new meal.

Interesting Fact About Ham Bone Soup

The slow cooker ham bone soup recipe is a great way to use up leftover ham bones and create a flavorful and hearty soup. It's a perfect dish for a cozy night in or to feed a crowd. This recipe is also a good source of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and filling meal. Plus, using a slow cooker makes it a convenient and low-maintenance cooking option. So, next time you have a ham bone leftover, consider making this delicious and comforting soup!

Is Making Ham Bone Soup at Home Cost-Effective?

This slow cooker ham bone soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like dried bean soup mix, diced ham, and chicken broth makes it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the recipe allows for easy customization based on available ingredients, reducing waste and saving money. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical choice. The rich flavors and hearty nature of the soup make it a satisfying and economical meal option. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The slow cooker ham bone soup recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that offers both nutritional benefits and some areas for improvement. Let's break it down:

Positives:

The recipe includes a variety of vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and tomatoes, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Using a ham bone and diced ham adds protein to the soup, which is crucial for maintaining and repairing body tissues.
The bean soup mix is a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you feeling full longer.
Low-sodium chicken broth is used, which helps reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.

Negatives:

Ham, while a good source of protein, can be high in sodium and saturated fat, especially if not lean cuts.
The recipe does not specify the type of bean soup mix used, and some mixes may contain high amounts of sodium or added preservatives.
The recipe lacks leafy greens, which are nutrient-dense and provide additional health benefits.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a lean, low-sodium ham to reduce the overall sodium and saturated fat content.
Choose a bean soup mix that is low in sodium and free from added preservatives, or use a combination of dried beans you've prepared yourself.
Increase the variety of vegetables by adding leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last 20 minutes of cooking. This will boost the nutrient content without overcooking the greens.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt. Try using bay leaves, rosemary, or smoked paprika for a depth of flavor.
Serve the soup with a side salad or additional steamed vegetables to increase the overall nutrient density of the meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Ham Bone Soup Recipe

This slow cooker ham bone soup recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of the ham bone, beans, and vegetables creates a rich and flavorful soup that is sure to warm the soul. The use of the slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal. The addition of thyme, garlic, and parsley adds a lovely depth of flavor, while the diced ham and tomatoes provide a delightful texture. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful way to make use of leftover ham and create a nourishing and delicious soup.

Enhance Your Ham Bone Soup Slow Cooker Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic for a flavorful side dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with honey and butter for a sweet and savory accompaniment.

Mixed Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A refreshing salad with a tangy citrus dressing to balance out the hearty ham bone soup.

Garlic Breadsticks: Warm and buttery garlic breadsticks to dip into the delicious soup.

Similar Soup Recipes to Try

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce will leave you wanting more.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This healthy and colorful salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa. It's a satisfying dish that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in this tropical and refreshing dessert that's also healthy! The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut with chia seeds makes for a delicious and guilt-free treat.

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: Whip up this classic Chinese dish at home for a quick and flavorful meal. Tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce come together for a delicious stir fry that's better than takeout.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup. The creamy and velvety texture of the soup, combined with the earthy sweetness of butternut squash, makes for a perfect fall or winter dish.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Slow Cooker Ham Bone Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a decadent treat.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy flavors of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry glaze and fresh sliced strawberries. This timeless dessert is sure to impress your guests.

Why trust this Ham Bone Soup Slow Cooker Recipe:

This slow cooker ham bone soup recipe guarantees a hearty and flavorful dish. The combination of dried bean soup mix and diced ham creates a rich and satisfying texture, while the addition of thyme and garlic infuses the soup with aromatic flavors. The use of low sodium chicken broth ensures a healthier option without compromising taste. With the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe offers a hassle-free cooking experience. Trust in the traditional appeal of a ham bone soup, and savor the comforting warmth of this homemade creation.

Share your thoughts on the Ham Bone Soup Slow Cooker Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham bone?

Yes, you can use other types of meat such as smoked turkey or bacon to add flavor to the soup. However, the ham bone adds a unique depth of flavor, so I recommend using it if possible.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried bean soup mix?

Yes, you can use canned beans instead of dried bean soup mix. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain them before adding to the slow cooker. You may also need to adjust the cooking time as canned beans cook faster than dried beans.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can make this soup on the stovetop by following the same steps and simmering the soup over low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender. Just make sure to stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.

Can I freeze the leftover soup?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover soup for future meals. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to leave some room for expansion, and the soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I omit the meat to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make a delicious vegetarian version of this soup. You can also add extra vegetables or tofu for added protein and flavor.