There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade soup, especially one that’s been simmering away all day in the Crock Pot. If you’re looking for a cozy, healthy, and flavorful dish to add to your meal rotation, look no further than Navy Bean Soup. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also packed with nutrients and perfect for any time of the year.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal prep and the magic of a slow cooker, you’ll have a delicious, hearty soup ready to serve with little effort. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it an ideal option for those seeking a wholesome meal that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this Navy Bean Soup recipe is a winner.
Let’s dive into the details!
Navy Bean Soup Crock Pot Recipe
Navy Bean Soup is a staple in many homes because of its hearty texture and the deep, savory flavor that develops as it slowly cooks. Cooking it in a Crock Pot makes the process even easier, letting the beans soften to perfection while absorbing all the delicious flavors from the broth, vegetables, and seasonings.
What makes this recipe even better is that it’s incredibly flexible. You can add more vegetables, tweak the seasonings, or throw in some meat if you’d like. It’s an adaptable soup that’s sure to please everyone around the dinner table.
Ingredients Needed
For this recipe, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Dry Navy Beans – 1 pound
- These little white beans are the backbone of the soup, providing a mild, creamy texture once they cook down.
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Carrots – 2 medium, chopped
- Adds a subtle sweetness and a pop of color to the soup. Plus, they hold their shape even after hours of slow cooking.
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Celery – 2 stalks, chopped
- Brings a refreshing crunch and earthy flavor, balancing out the sweetness from the carrots.
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Onion – 1 large, diced
- Onions form the base of many soups, and this one is no different. They soften and caramelize, giving depth to the soup’s flavor.
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Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Garlic is the secret ingredient that takes the flavor profile to the next level. It adds that savory kick and enhances the richness of the broth.
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Vegetable Broth (or chicken broth) – 6 cups
- This forms the liquid base for the soup. If you want a richer flavor, you can swap in chicken broth.
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Bay Leaves – 2
- Bay leaves bring a subtle, aromatic flavor that works beautifully with beans and vegetables.
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Thyme – 1 teaspoon (fresh or dried)
- This herb has a savory, earthy flavor that complements the beans and adds a fragrant note to the soup.
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Salt and Pepper – To taste
- These basic seasonings will help balance the flavors. You can also use additional seasonings like smoked paprika for a more complex taste.
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Optional: Ham or Bacon – 1 cup, diced
- This is where you can get creative. Adding meat will bring some extra umami and richness to the soup. Ham is especially common and adds a salty, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the beans.
Cooking Instructions
The best part about this Navy Bean Soup is how easy it is to prepare. Here’s the step-by-step guide to making this comforting dish:
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Prepare The Beans
- Rinse the dry navy beans thoroughly in a colander to remove any debris or dust. Then, place them in a large bowl and cover with water. Allow them to soak for at least 6 hours or overnight. This step isn’t mandatory, but it helps the beans cook faster and makes them easier to digest. If you’re short on time, you can skip the soak and just cook the beans longer in the Crock Pot.
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Chop Your Veggies
- Dice the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic. The smaller the chop, the quicker they’ll cook down into the soup.
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Add Everything To The Crock Pot
- Once the beans have soaked (or not), transfer them into the Crock Pot. Add in the chopped vegetables, minced garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and any optional meat you’re using. Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and give it a gentle stir.
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Set And Forget
- Cover the Crock Pot and set it on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours. The beans should be tender and the vegetables cooked through by the end of the cooking time.
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Season To Taste
- After cooking, remove the bay leaves. Taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want the soup to be a bit thicker, you can mash a portion of the beans with a potato masher or blend some of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier consistency.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this soup serves a unique purpose in contributing to both the flavor and texture of the dish:
- Navy Beans: These beans are small, soft, and absorb flavor beautifully. They’re high in fiber and protein, making them a great base for a filling and nutritious meal.
- Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onion): These veggies bring a natural sweetness and earthiness to the soup. As they cook, they break down and infuse the broth with their flavors, creating a savory and balanced base for the beans.
- Garlic: This aromatic bulb adds a savory depth to the soup, transforming it from a simple bean dish into something more complex and satisfying.
- Bay Leaves and Thyme: These herbs lend an aromatic fragrance that enhances the overall flavor profile. Bay leaves add subtle hints of woodsy flavor, while thyme offers a delicate earthiness that blends beautifully with the beans.
- Ham or Bacon (Optional): If you decide to include meat, these ingredients elevate the soup with their salty, smoky flavors, giving the beans an extra layer of depth and richness.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Skip Soaking the Beans: While you can technically cook the beans without soaking them, soaking them beforehand will help them cook faster and make the soup creamier.
- Adjust Consistency: If you like a thicker soup, try mashing some of the beans. If you want a thinner broth, simply add more liquid (broth or water) to achieve the consistency you prefer.
- Season Gradually: As the soup simmers, taste it periodically. You can always add more salt, pepper, or herbs, but it’s harder to fix an overly salty soup.
- Make It a Meal: Add a slice of crusty bread or a salad on the side to turn this simple soup into a full, balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top is also a great way to take it up a notch.
Recipe Variations
While the basic Navy Bean Soup recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes:
- Vegan Version: Skip the ham or bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan-friendly soup.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, or chop up a jalapeño and toss it in for some heat.
- Add Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a pop of green and added nutrients.
- Italian Twist: Add some Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, or a handful of Parmesan cheese for a rich, Italian-inspired version.
- Smoky Flavor: If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a deeper, more intense flavor profile.
Final Words
This Navy Bean Soup is a fantastic dish to add to your recipe collection. It’s easy to make, adaptable to whatever you have on hand, and makes for great leftovers. The ingredients are simple, but when combined in the Crock Pot, they create something truly comforting. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as a side, this soup is guaranteed to bring smiles to the dinner table.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For A Navy Bean Soup Crock Pot Recipe?
The essential ingredients for a navy bean soup in a crock pot include dried navy beans, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, vegetable or chicken broth, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and optionally, ham or bacon for added flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Navy Bean Soup In A Crock Pot?
Typically, navy bean soup takes about 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat in a crock pot. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and power of the crock pot.
Do I Need To Soak The Navy Beans Before Adding Them To The Crock Pot?
It is not necessary to soak the beans beforehand, as the slow cooking process in the crock pot will soften the beans. However, soaking beans for 6-8 hours or overnight can help reduce cooking time and may improve digestibility.
Can I Use Canned Navy Beans Instead Of Dried Beans In A Crock Pot Recipe?
Yes, you can use canned navy beans, but you should add them toward the end of the cooking process (last 30 minutes to 1 hour) since they are already cooked. Be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the crock pot.
Can I Make Navy Bean Soup In A Crock Pot Without Meat?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of navy bean soup by omitting the ham or bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra herbs or spices for flavor.
What Are Some Variations I Can Try In A Navy Bean Soup Recipe?
Some variations include adding spinach, kale, or other greens, incorporating diced tomatoes or tomato paste, or using different types of beans, such as great northern or pinto beans. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for more depth of flavor.
How Can I Thicken Navy Bean Soup In A Crock Pot?
To thicken navy bean soup, you can mash some of the beans directly in the crock pot with a potato masher or immersion blender. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
What Type Of Broth Is Best For Navy Bean Soup?
For a richer flavor, chicken broth is commonly used, but vegetable broth is a great option for vegetarians or vegans. You can also use low-sodium broth to control the salt content in the soup.
Can I Freeze Navy Bean Soup Made In A Crock Pot?
Yes, navy bean soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Should I Serve With Navy Bean Soup Made In A Crock Pot?
Navy bean soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or cornbread. For added protein, you can serve it with grilled chicken or a side of cheese, such as grated Parmesan.