Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Ham and Beans

INGREDIENTS

You will need one pound, or four hundred and fifty grams, of dried navy beans or great northern beans, rinsed and sorted. You will need two to three cups of cooked ham, either diced or shredded. You will need four cups of chicken broth, or enough to completely cover the beans in the slow cooker. For optional flavor enhancement, you may add one teaspoon of garlic powder, one teaspoon of onion powder, a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little heat, and salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Step one is to prepare the beans. Rinse and sort the dried beans carefully to remove any small stones or debris. Optionally, you can soak the beans in water for four to six hours or overnight. This step is not strictly required for the slow cooker, but it will reduce the overall cooking time and improve digestibility.

Step two is to combine the ingredients. Place the rinsed beans into the slow cooker. Add the diced or shredded ham on top. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring there is just enough liquid to cover the beans. If you are using them, sprinkle the optional garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper over the top.

Step three is to cook. Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for six to eight hours, or on the high setting for three to four hours. Check the beans near the end of the cooking time to ensure they have reached your desired level of tenderness.

Step four is to adjust and serve. If the beans have absorbed too much liquid and seem too thick, stir in a little extra broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency. Taste the dish and add salt and black pepper as needed, keeping in mind that the ham and broth already contribute sodium.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

This hearty and comforting dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm alongside a slice of sweet, crumbly cornbread or a thick piece of crusty artisan bread for soaking up the savory broth. It also makes a fantastic, protein-rich topping when ladled over a bed of fluffy white rice or buttered egg noodles. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad or a side of sautéed collard greens.

YOU MUST KNOW

The most critical step in preparing dried beans is to rinse and sort them thoroughly to remove any hidden debris or small stones. Additionally, be mindful of the salt content. Because both the cooked ham and the chicken broth contain sodium, it is highly recommended to wait until the very end of the cooking process to taste and adjust the seasoning. This prevents the final dish from becoming overly salty as the liquid reduces and concentrates during the long simmer.

STORAGE TIPS

Store any leftover ham and beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will actually deepen and improve overnight. To reheat, gently warm the beans on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a small splash of broth or water if the mixture has thickened too much in the fridge. You can also freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans for a much quicker version. However, you should rinse and drain two to three cans of beans, reduce the chicken broth to about one cup, and cook on low for only two to three hours, just long enough to heat the dish through and meld the flavors.

What if I do not have chicken broth?

You can substitute the chicken broth with an equal amount of water, though the final dish will have a less robust flavor. Vegetable broth is also an excellent alternative that adds depth without using meat-based stock.

Can I use a different type of bean?

Absolutely. While navy beans and great northern beans are traditional, pinto beans, cannellini beans, or even black-eyed peas work beautifully in this recipe and will yield a similarly creamy and delicious result.

ALLERGY INFORMATION

This recipe is naturally dairy-free and nut-free. The primary allergen concerns depend on the specific brands of chicken broth and cooked ham used, which may contain soy, gluten, or celery. To ensure this recipe is gluten-free, verify that your chicken broth and ham are certified gluten-free, as some processed meats and broths use wheat-based thickeners or flavorings. Always check the labels on your specific ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.

CONCLUSION

Slow cooker three-ingredient ham and beans is a beautiful testament to the magic of low and slow cooking. By allowing a few simple, high-quality ingredients to meld together over several hours, you create a rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you are utilizing leftover holiday ham or simply craving a nostalgic, comforting meal, this effortless recipe delivers outstanding flavor and timeless appeal in every single bowl.