Creamy Ham and Beans is a hearty dish that warms your soul and brings a sense of comfort to your table. It combines the rich flavors of ham with tender beans in a creamy broth, making it the perfect choice for chilly days or family gatherings. This recipe is not just about taste; it also offers a delightful texture that you and your loved ones will enjoy. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again.
Why We Love This Creamy Ham and Beans Recipe
This Creamy Ham and Beans recipe stands out because of its rich flavor and comforting texture. The combination of creamy broth with tender beans and savory ham creates a delightful harmony of tastes. It’s an easy recipe that allows you to slow cook it while you go about your day, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully over time. Moreover, it is incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. Best of all, it is a great way to use leftovers, helping you minimize waste while maximizing flavor.
Ingredients about Creamy Ham and Beans
To prepare your Creamy Ham and Beans, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound dried white beans (e.g., navy or great northern beans)
- 1 pound cooked ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious and filling dish that everyone will adore.
How to Make Creamy Ham and Beans Directions
Making Creamy Ham and Beans is a straightforward process, perfect even for novice cooks. Follow these easy steps to bring this comforting dish to life:
- Rinse and Soak the Beans: Start by rinsing the dried white beans under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. After rinsing, soak the beans in water overnight. This will help soften them and reduce cooking time. Once soaked, drain the beans and set them aside.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: In a slow cooker, combine the soaked beans, diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Make sure the beans are fully submerged in the broth as they will absorb some liquid during cooking.
- Select Your Cooking Time: Cook the mixture on low for 8 to 10 hours, or on high for 4 to 6 hours. You’ll know your ham and beans are ready when the beans are tender and easily mashable with a fork.
- Stir in the Cream: Once the beans are tender, stir in the heavy cream gradually. This will add a rich, velvety texture to your dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the creamy ham and beans into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. You can enjoy this dish hot, paired with your favorite sides.
Enjoy the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen as you create this delicious meal.
How to Serve Creamy Ham and Beans
Serving your Creamy Ham and Beans is an important part of the experience. This dish is not just delicious, but it’s also quite versatile. Here are a few suggestions on how you can present it:
- Pair with Bread: Serve your creamy beans alongside biscuits or crusty bread. These options allow you to scoop up the creamy goodness, enhancing every bite. The bread can also help balance the dish’s richness.
- Accompany with Cornbread: Cornbread is an excellent pairing that adds a slightly sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the ham and beans. You can serve slices of warm cornbread on the side for a comforting meal.
- Add a Side of Vegetables: Consider serving a light salad or steamed vegetables on the side. This adds freshness and color to your plate while balancing the richness of the creaminess.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme not only enhances the visual appeal of your dish but also adds a burst of flavor that complements the creamy texture.
You can enjoy this dish any time, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering. Each serving will make you appreciate the simple, delicious flavors of this timeless recipe.
Expert Tips: Creamy Ham and Beans
- Soak Your Beans: Don’t skip soaking the beans overnight. This step helps them cook more evenly and makes them easier to digest. If you forget to soak them, you can opt for the quick soak method—bring them to a boil for a few minutes, then let them sit for an hour before draining.
- Use Quality Ham: The flavor of the dish largely comes from the ham, so using a quality piece will significantly enhance the overall taste. Look for ham with a rich flavor and a bit of fat for added creaminess.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you find the mixture too thick, feel free to add more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, for a thicker dish, let it simmer uncovered for the last half hour to help it reduce.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs to find your favorite combination. Adding a bay leaf during cooking can impart a lovely depth of flavor. Just remember to remove it before serving!
- Use Leftovers Wisely: This recipe is a fantastic way to utilize leftover ham from holiday meals. Feel free to customize by including other leftover vegetables you may have on hand.
Following these expert tips will elevate your Creamy Ham and Beans, ensuring each bowl is bursting with flavor.
How to Store Creamy Ham and Beans
Storing your Creamy Ham and Beans is easy and can extend the life of this delightful dish. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Cool Down: Allow the leftover beans to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the beans to an airtight container. This will keep them fresh and prevent any odors from impacting the flavor.
- Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop even after cooking!
- Freezing Option: If you want to save them for longer, consider freezing your Creamy Ham and Beans. Portion them into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thaw and Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
These simple storage methods will keep your Delicious Creamy Ham and Beans ready for another meal at your convenience.
Variation of Creamy Ham and Beans
While the classic version of Creamy Ham and Beans is already fantastic, there are many variations you can try to change things up. Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetable Additions: Add different vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Sauté them with the onions and garlic to enhance the taste.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy some heat, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when cooking. This will give the dish a nice kick that many love.
- Herb Blends: Incorporate different herbs like rosemary or thyme to create a variation that suits your palate. Each herb brings a unique flavor profile.
- Cream Cheese Substitute: For a richer, creamier texture, you could experiment with adding cream cheese along with or instead of heavy cream.
- Bean Variations: While white beans are traditional, consider using other beans like black beans or pinto beans to create your own customized version.
These variations allow you to adapt the dish to your tastes and explore new flavor combinations while keeping the essence of this comforting meal.
FAQ
What is the best way to prepare beans for Creamy Ham and Beans?
The best way to prepare beans for Creamy Ham and Beans is to soak them overnight in water. This softens them and reduces cooking time, ensuring they become tender while cooking. You can also do a quick soak method if you’re short on time.
How long does it take to cook Creamy Ham and Beans?
Cooking Creamy Ham and Beans in a slow cooker takes about 8–10 hours on low or 4–6 hours on high. The beans should be tender and easily mashed, and the flavors meld beautifully during this process.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can substitute canned beans for dried beans, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. If using canned beans, you can add them during the last hour of cooking since they are already cooked. Reduce the broth slightly to account for the extra liquid in the canned beans.
What can I serve with Creamy Ham and Beans?
You can serve Creamy Ham and Beans with a variety of sides, including biscuits, cornbread, or fried potatoes. Adding a fresh salad or steamed vegetables as a side can also complement the dish nicely.
Can I freeze Creamy Ham and Beans?
Absolutely! Creamy Ham and Beans freeze well. Just make sure to store them in airtight containers, allowing some space for expansion. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.
Creamy Ham and Beans
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound dried white beans (e.g., navy or great northern beans) Soaked overnight
- 1 pound cooked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth Ensure beans are fully submerged
- 1 cup heavy cream For a rich texture
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional) Recommended for flavor enhancement
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the dried white beans under cold water to remove dirt and debris. Soak them in water overnight, then drain.
- In a slow cooker, combine the soaked beans, diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth.
Cooking
- Cook the mixture on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours until beans are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream gradually after the beans are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Spoon the creamy ham and beans into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.
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