These Slow Cooker Lima Beans transform dried lima beans into a rich, comforting dish by simmering them slowly with diced ham, onions, and simple pantry seasonings in savory chicken broth. Serve a small bowl on its own as a light meal or pair it with a favorite main course for a satisfying, homey plate.
Try pairing these beans with Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak Meatballs or Slow Cooker Jamaican Jerk Chicken for a heartier dinner, or serve alongside roasted or grilled proteins for a balanced meal.
Why You Should Cook Lima Beans in a Crock Pot
Cooking beans slowly in a crock pot makes them tender and flavorful with very little hands-on time. Unlike traditional stovetop methods, the slow cooker requires no constant monitoring and accepts dried beans without an overnight soak for this recipe. The low-and-slow heat lets the ham and broth gently infuse the beans, producing a deep, comforting flavor from just a few ingredients.
This lima beans and ham recipe is easy to assemble and ideal for busy days when you want a wholesome, satisfying side or a meat-and-bean main that stretches to feed a crowd.
Recipe Ingredients
- Dried lima beans: 1 lb. (large lima beans), no need to soak.
- Diced ham: 2 cups. A ham hock works well if you want extra smoky depth.
- Yellow onion: 1 small, diced.
- Seasonings: 1 tsp. onion powder, 1 tsp. garlic powder, 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional). The broth and ham provide most of the salt, so taste before adding extra.
- Chicken broth: 6 cups. Use chicken stock, beef broth, or vegetable broth as alternatives.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prepare the slow cooker: Add the dried lima beans to the crock pot.
- Add the flavorings: Stir in the diced ham, chopped onion, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne.
- Pour the broth: Add the chicken broth and stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook: Cover and cook on HIGH for about 5 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir gently before serving.
How to Serve
- Serve as a side with barbecue ribs, fried chicken, or grilled meats.
- Offer alongside coleslaw and hot water cornbread or a fresh green salad and steamed vegetables for a balanced plate.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, crispy fried onions, or sliced green onions for added texture and brightness.
- These beans are hearty enough to be served as a main dish—pair with crusty bread or rice to soak up the flavorful broth.
Recipe FAQs
Allow the beans to cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
Can I freeze slow cooker lima beans?
Yes. Once cooled, place the beans in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, pressing out excess air. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I add other ingredients for more flavor?
Absolutely. Popular additions include bacon, smoked sausage, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, celery, fresh garlic, or herbs such as thyme or rosemary. Adjust seasoning and liquid as needed when adding ingredients that absorb broth.
Can I substitute the ham?
Yes. Smoked turkey wings or necks, a ham hock, or other smoked meats will add a similar savory depth. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth plus smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
Recipe Details
Servings: 6. Prep time: about 10 minutes. Total time: roughly 5 hours 10 minutes (mostly unattended slow-cooking).
Ingredients (summary)
- 1 lb. dried lima beans (no soak)
- 2 cups diced ham
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional)
- 6 cups chicken broth
Instructions (summary)
- Place lima beans in the slow cooker.
- Add ham, onion, and dry seasonings.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir.
- Cook on HIGH for 5 hours, then stir and serve.
Notes
- Lima beans freeze well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.
- Store refrigerated leftovers for 3–4 days.
- Substitute smoked turkey, a ham hock, or smoked sausage for different but equally delicious flavor variations.
Nutrition (per serving, estimate)
Calories: 321 kcal | Carbohydrates: 52 g | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 2 g | Sodium: 1382 mg | Fiber: 15 g
This nutrition information is auto-generated and should be used as an estimate; if you follow a specific diet, calculate values using your preferred tool.
More Slow Cooker Beans Recipes
If you enjoy this recipe, try other slow cooker bean dishes such as pinto beans and ham, black beans, red beans and rice, baked beans, or cowboy beans for different flavor profiles and textures. Each variety offers easy preparation and satisfying, protein-rich results suitable for weeknight dinners or meal prep.