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Crockpot BBQ Ham & Beans

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Crockpot BBQ Ham & Beans

Description

Crockpot BBQ Ham & Beans is a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet comfort dish made with tender chunks of caramelized ham and soft, hearty beans slow-cooked in a thick, glossy barbecue-style sauce. As it simmers, the flavors deepen—ham releases its savory, smoky juices while the beans soak up the sweet and tangy sauce.

The result is a bold, sticky, and satisfying dish with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. The sauce thickens beautifully over time, coating every bite. This recipe is incredibly easy, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

 Ingredients (Serves 5–6)

Main:

  • 2 cups cooked or canned white beans (navy or pinto)
  • 2 cups smoked ham (cubed)

Sauce Base:

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Seasoning:

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

Optional Add-ins:

  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (for heat)
  • 1 tbsp honey (for extra sweetness)

 Instructions

1. Prep

Drain beans if using canned. Cube ham into bite-sized pieces.

2. Add to Crockpot

Add beans and ham into the crockpot.

3. Make Sauce

In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire, and seasonings.

4. Combine

Pour sauce over the beans and ham. Mix gently.

5. Cook

  • LOW: 5–6 hours
  • HIGH: 2.5–3 hours

6. Finish

Stir and let sit 10 minutes before serving for thicker sauce.

Tips

  • Use smoked ham for deeper flavor
  • Don’t add too much salt—ham is already salty
  • For thicker sauce, cook uncovered last 20 minutes
  • Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for balance

 Notes

  • Sauce thickens as it cools
  • Flavor gets even better the next day
  • Works great as a side or main dish

 Servings

  • Serves: 5–6
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5–6 hours

 Nutritional Info (Per Serving Approx)

  • Calories: 350–420 kcal
  • Protein: 20–25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30–35g
  • Fat: 12–16g
  • Fiber: 6–8g

 Benefits

  • Beans: High in fiber and plant protein
  • Ham: Adds protein and rich flavor
  • Balanced energy meal with carbs + protein
  • Great for meal prep and long-lasting fullness

Q&A

Q: Can I use dry beans?
Yes, but soak overnight and pre-cook before adding.

Q: Can I make this less sweet?
Reduce brown sugar or use a tangier BBQ sauce.

Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes or hot sauce.

Q: What goes well with this?
Cornbread, rice, or roasted veggies.

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