Crock Pot Ham And Lentil Soup: My Simple, Comforting Recipe
When the weather turns chilly, I always crave something cozy and filling. One of my go-to recipes is Crock Pot Ham and Lentil Soup. This soup is more than just a meal—it’s a way to use up leftover ham, fill the house with great smells, and feed everyone with minimal effort. If you’ve never tried making this in your slow cooker, you’re missing out on a true comfort food classic.
Why I Love Crock Pot Ham And Lentil Soup
Let me be honest: I first made this soup because I had leftover holiday ham and a bag of lentils in the pantry. What surprised me was how easy it was to put together. I tossed everything into my slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner, I had a rich, flavorful soup that tasted like I’d worked on it all day.
Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, which keep you full. Ham brings a smoky, salty kick that blends beautifully with the earthy lentils and vegetables. Plus, the soup is budget-friendly and stretches to feed a crowd.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what I use for a batch that serves 6–8 people:
- 2 cups diced cooked ham (leftover ham works best)
- 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 7 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste (I usually add at the end)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for richer flavor)
You can also add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon at the end to brighten the flavors.
Credit: easycrockpotrecipe.com
Step-by-step Instructions
I love how simple this is:
- Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker.
- Stir to mix everything well.
- Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours.
- Before serving, check if the lentils are tender. Remove bay leaves, taste, and add salt if needed.
- If you like a thicker soup, mash some lentils with a spoon.
That’s it! I usually serve this with a thick slice of crusty bread.
Cooking Tips From My Kitchen
Here are a few things I learned after making this soup many times:
- Don’t skip rinsing lentils. It removes dust and helps them cook evenly.
- If you use a ham bone, add it with the ingredients. It adds rich flavor, and you can remove it before serving.
- This soup freezes well. I portion leftovers in freezer bags and thaw for a quick lunch.
- Try adding a handful of chopped spinach near the end for color and nutrients.
Credit: www.spendwithpennies.com
Nutritional Breakdown
Lentil soup is known for its health benefits. Here’s a look at the nutrition per serving (about 1 1/2 cups):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 19g |
| Fiber | 11g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Fat | 5g |
Crock Pot Vs. Stovetop: What’s Easier?
I’ve tried both methods, and the slow cooker wins for hands-off cooking. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Method | Prep Time | Active Cooking Needed | Flavor Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crock Pot | 10 min | Very low | Deep, mellow |
| Stovetop | 15 min | Must stir often | Strong, slightly brighter |
What Makes This Soup Special?
One thing I noticed is how the soup’s flavor gets better the next day. The lentils soak up the ham taste, and the vegetables get sweeter. This is a great meal-prep recipe—make a big batch and enjoy it all week.
Another tip: don’t worry if your ham isn’t fancy. Even basic cooked ham will work, though smoked ham adds more depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Lentils?
Yes. Green or brown lentils work best because they hold their shape. Red lentils will turn mushy, but some people like that texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. I reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
What Can I Use Instead Of Ham?
Try smoked turkey, sausage, or keep it vegetarian. Add smoked paprika for that classic flavor.
Do I Need To Soak Lentils Before Cooking?
No need to soak. Just rinse them well. They cook perfectly in the crock pot.
Can I Double This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure your slow cooker is big enough. Don’t fill more than three-quarters full.
If you want to learn more about lentils and their health benefits, check out this guide on Wikipedia.
If you try this Crock Pot Ham and Lentil Soup, I hope it warms you up like it does for me. It’s simple, hearty, and always hits the spot on a cold day.
Credit: www.spendwithpennies.com
