Crock Pot Great Northern Beans (Slow Cooker Ham Beans)
Tender, smoky Great Northern beans slow-cooked with meaty ham hocks, onion, and a touch of brown sugar for rich, comforting flavor. Perfect as a hearty main dish or classic side.
Ingredients
- 1 (16 oz) package dried Great Northern beans
- 3–4 meaty ham hock shanks or 1 meaty ham bone (about 1½ lbs)
- 1 small onion, diced
- Water (enough to fully cover beans)
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Flavor Boosters (Recommended):
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
Instructions
Sort & Rinse the Beans
Pick through the dried beans to remove any debris. Rinse thoroughly under cold water.
Optional Overnight Soak (For Faster Cooking)
Place beans in a bowl and cover with water. Soak overnight, then drain and rinse again.
(If skipping soaking, cooking time may increase slightly.)
Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot
Add beans to the slow cooker.
Top with diced onion, ham hocks (or ham bone), brown sugar, and optional seasonings.
Add Water
Pour in enough water to fully cover the beans by about 1–2 inches.
Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
- LOW for 8–10 hours
- OR HIGH for 4–6 hours
Stir occasionally if possible.
Shred Ham & Finish
Remove ham hocks, shred the meat, discard bones and skin, and return meat to the pot.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7️⃣ Serve Warm
Let sit 10–15 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Cornbread
- White rice
- Collard greens or cabbage
- Fresh biscuits
- Hot sauce or chow chow relish
Tips & Variations
- Creamier texture: Mash a small portion of beans and stir back in.
- Extra smoky: Add a splash of liquid smoke.
- Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeño.
- No ham? Substitute smoked turkey leg or bacon.