Ham and Bean Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ham and Bean Soup is a classic, comforting dish that’s hearty, wholesome, and full of rich, savory flavor. Made with tender beans, smoky ham, and simple veggies simmered in a flavorful broth, this one-pot wonder is perfect for cozy dinners, using up leftover ham, or meal prepping for the week. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and always hits the spot.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oilyellow onion (diced)carrots (sliced)celery (chopped)garlic (minced)cooked ham (diced)ham bone or ham hock (optional for extra flavor)dried great northern beans (or navy beans, rinsed)bay leafthyme (dried or fresh)salt and pepperchicken broth or water (or a mix)parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)

directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add diced ham, beans, bay leaf, thyme, and ham bone or hock if using.

Pour in chicken broth or water to cover ingredients by about 1–2 inches.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beans are tender.

Remove the ham bone/hock, shred any meat, and return it to the pot.

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove bay leaf. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 1.5–2 hoursTotal time: approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use canned beans for a quick version—reduce cook time to 30–40 minutes.

Add a diced potato for extra heartiness (not low-carb).

Use smoked turkey instead of ham for a twist.

Add spinach or kale toward the end for a pop of color and nutrition.

Use a slow cooker or Instant Pot for hands-off cooking.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot.Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Do I need to soak the beans?

It’s optional. Soaking can reduce cooking time slightly, but isn’t required.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until beans are tender.

Can I make it in the Instant Pot?

Yes—pressure cook on high for 35–40 minutes with a 15-minute natural release.

What kind of beans work best?

Great northern, navy, or cannellini beans are all great choices.

What if I don’t have a ham bone?

Use diced ham and add extra broth or a splash of liquid smoke for flavor.

Can I make this soup thicker?

Yes, mash some of the beans or blend a small portion and stir it back in.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure all ingredients (like broth) are certified gluten-free.

What goes well with ham and bean soup?

Serve with cornbread, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.

Can I add tomatoes?

Sure! Add a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.

How do I keep it low-carb?

Skip the potatoes and beans and sub with cauliflower florets or zucchini for a similar texture.

Conclusion

Ham and Bean Soup is a soul-warming, budget-friendly classic that’s easy to make and loaded with comforting flavor. Whether you use leftover holiday ham or start from scratch, this satisfying soup is perfect for chilly nights, cozy lunches, or feeding a crowd. One bowl and you’ll see why it’s a timeless favorite!

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