There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of warm, hearty soup on a chilly day. Ham and bean soup is the kind of dish that wraps you up in a hug, filling your kitchen with rich, savory aromas. Whether you’re using leftover ham from a holiday meal or just craving an easy dinner packed with flavor, this simple and satisfying recipe will soon become a family favorite. The best part? You only need a handful of pantry staples to make it!
Here’s everything you need to know to whip up this easy ham and bean soup recipe, plus some tips to make it your own.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients
This recipe focuses on simple ingredients, many of which you might already have on hand. Here’s the full list of what you’ll need:
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups ham, diced (use leftover ham or a ham steak)
- 2 15-ounce cans of great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Optional Add-ins & Substitutions
- Different Beans: Swap great northern beans for navy beans, cannellini beans, or even black-eyed peas.
- Smoky Flavor: Toss in a smoked ham hock or a bit of smoked paprika if you’re craving a smoky twist.
- Vegetables Galore: Add extra veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for a boost of nutrients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, take a few moments to prep everything. Chop the vegetables, dice the ham, and rinse your beans. This will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables start to soften. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Stir in the diced ham, beans, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Simmer the soup for 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add Seasoning
After the soup has simmered, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to your liking. Remember that ham can be salty, so go light on salt and adjust as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve with warm crusty bread, cornbread, or even a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for Customizing Your Soup
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thick, stew-like consistency, use a potato masher to mash some of the beans right in the pot.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk at the end for a creamier texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
- Slow Cooker Option: To make this in a slow cooker, add all the ingredients except the olive oil and parsley to the crockpot. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
This classic recipe is more than just a meal; it’s pure comfort food. The combination of tender beans, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables creates a balance of flavors that feels like home. It’s also budget-friendly and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or Sunday meal prep.
Whether you’re combating a cold winter evening or looking to use up leftovers, this ham and bean soup recipe delivers warmth and nourishment in every bite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to make extra – this soup tastes even better the next day!
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