Open the bag of dried beans and discard the ham flavor packet (if there is one) or save it for another use. Rinse the dried beans in a colander under cold running water until the water runs clear. Pour the rinsed beans into the crock pot.
Put the browned ground beef into the crock pot with the beans. Add the diced onions, sliced celery and minced garlic to the crock pot.
Next add the soup spices and bay leaf.
Pour the beef broth and water over the ingredients.
Use a wooden spoon to stir the ingredients to combine.
Cook on high for 6 to 7 hours or low for 8 to 10 hours or until the dried beans are tender.