Crockpot Great Northern Beans

Introduction

Crockpot Great Northern Beans with Ham is a classic comfort-food recipe made with tender white beans, smoky ham, and simple vegetables simmered low and slow. This hearty, budget-friendly dish is rich, filling, and perfect for busy days when you want a warm, homemade meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried Great Northern beans, rinsed
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced (or 1 ham hock)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Beans
   Rinse and sort the dried beans, removing any debris.
2. Load the Crockpot
   Add beans, ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to the slow cooker.
3. Add Liquid
   Pour in chicken broth until beans are fully submerged.
4. Slow Cook
   Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until beans are tender and creamy.
5. Finish & Serve
   Remove bay leaf and ham hock (if used). Shred meat and return it to the crockpot. Stir and adjust seasoning before serving.

Tips

• For extra flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end to brighten flavors
• Serve with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal

FAQs

1. Do I need to soak Great Northern beans first?
No, soaking isn’t required for crockpot cooking, but it can reduce cooking time.

2. Can I use canned beans instead?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to 2–3 hours on LOW.

3. What’s the best ham to use?
Leftover holiday ham or a smoked ham hock works best.

4. Can I make this without meat?
Absolutely—omit ham and use vegetable broth with added herbs.

5. Why are my beans still hard?
Beans may be old or need more time—continue cooking until tender.