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.