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–+ servings

Old Fashioned Slow Cooker Lentil and Ham Soup

This old fashioned slow cooker lentil and ham soup is a cozy, hearty comfort food recipe made with simple pantry ingredients. Tender lentils, savory ham, and classic seasonings simmer together all day for a warm, satisfying soup that tastes like something grandma would have made for supper. It’s easy, filling, and perfect for chilly days or using up leftover ham.
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Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound cooked ham, diced
  • 1 ½ cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Method
 

  1. Add the ham, lentils, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, smoked paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
  2. Stir well to combine, then cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the lentils are tender.
  3. Remove the bay leaf before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm.

Notes

  • A great way to use leftover holiday ham
  • Lentils do not need soaking before cooking
  • Soup thickens naturally as it cooks
  • Tastes even better the next day
  • Freezer friendly for easy make-ahead meals

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