"Deliciously Easy Ham and Beans Recipe Slow Cooker: A Hearty Comfort Food for Any Occasion"

#### Description:If you're looking for a comforting, hearty meal that requires minimal effort, then this **ham and beans recipe slow cooker** is perfect for……

#### Description:

If you're looking for a comforting, hearty meal that requires minimal effort, then this **ham and beans recipe slow cooker** is perfect for you. This dish combines the rich flavors of ham with the earthy goodness of beans, creating a satisfying meal that is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

#### Ingredients:

To prepare this **ham and beans recipe slow cooker**, you'll need a few simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry:

- 1 pound of dried beans (such as navy, pinto, or great northern)

- 1 cup of diced ham (smoked or leftover)

- 1 onion, chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 4 cups of chicken broth (or water)

- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon of black pepper

- 1 bay leaf

- Salt to taste

- Optional: chopped carrots or celery for added flavor and nutrition

#### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Beans**: Start by rinsing your dried beans under cold water. You can soak them overnight to reduce cooking time, but it's not necessary if you're using a slow cooker.

2. **Combine Ingredients**: In your slow cooker, combine the rinsed beans, diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf. If you're adding carrots or celery, toss those in as well.

3. **Cook**: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The beans should be tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully as they cook.

4. **Season**: Once the cooking time is up, taste the soup and add salt as needed. Remember that the ham may already be salty, so adjust accordingly.

5. **Serve**: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the hearty ham and beans into bowls and enjoy with some crusty bread or cornbread on the side.

#### Tips for the Perfect Ham and Beans Recipe Slow Cooker:

- **Choosing the Right Beans**: Different beans can change the texture and flavor of your dish. Navy beans are creamy, while pinto beans offer a slightly sweeter taste. Experiment to find your favorite!

- **Leftover Ham**: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover holiday ham. The more flavorful the ham, the richer your dish will be.

- **Storage**: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.

- **Add-Ins**: Feel free to customize your **ham and beans recipe slow cooker** by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or even a splash of hot sauce for some heat.

#### Conclusion:

This **ham and beans recipe slow cooker** is not only easy to prepare but also a nutritious and filling option that the whole family will love. Perfect for any occasion, it brings warmth and comfort to your dining table, making it a must-try dish for every home cook. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the satisfaction of a meal that practically cooks itself!