Ham and Bean Soup: Rich, Hearty Flavor You’ll Love

Oh my goodness, can we talk about Ham and Bean Soup for a second? I’m absolutely obsessed with this cozy bowl of happiness! It’s one of those dishes that makes your whole house smell amazing.

You know what I mean? The smoky ham mixed with creamy beans just hits different. Every time I make it, I think about my grandma’s kitchen on Sunday afternoons. It’s super cheap to make and honestly tastes even better the next day.

Need to feed your family or prep meals for the week? This soup has your back! Plus, it’s so easy that you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. Trust me on this one.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This yummy soup uses simple stuff you probably already have hanging around. Check out the recipe card down below for exact amounts, okay?

• Ham: The smoky or leftover ham bone gives this soup its rich, meaty goodness that’s SO good.
• White Beans: These creamy little guys make the soup filling and pack it with protein, too.
• Onion: This aromatic veggie builds that sweet and savory base we all love in soups.
• Carrots: They add natural sweetness and a pretty orange color that looks great with the ham.
• Celery: Fresh and earthy flavor that gives the soup its classic taste and nice crunch.
• Garlic: These pungent cloves punch up the flavor and make everything taste way better, seriously.
• Chicken Broth: This flavorful liquid brings everything together into one delicious, slurp-worthy soup that warms you up.
• Bay Leaves: Subtle herbal notes that add warmth and depth while everything simmers away nicely.
• Dried Thyme: Earthy herb that pairs perfectly with beans and ham for that classic comfort food vibe.

How to Make Ham and Bean Soup

This cozy soup is pretty hands-off, which is awesome. Just let it simmer slowly, and all those flavors will come together like magic.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in 1 diced onion, 2 chopped carrots, 2 celery stalks, and cook for 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when everything gets soft and smells amazing.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Now stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Cook for 1 minute while stirring so the garlic doesn’t burn. Your kitchen will smell incredible right about now!

Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients

Add 1 pound dried white beans, 1 pound diced ham, and 8 cups chicken broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir. Make sure those beans are covered by the liquid.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring it all to a boil, then turn the heat down to low. Pop the lid on and let it simmer for 2 hours. The beans will get super tender and creamy. Stir it once in a while.

Step 5: Shred and Season

If you used a ham bone, take it out now and shred any meat off it. Put that meat back in the pot. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remember, ham is already salty, so go easy at first!

Step 6: Final Touch and Serve

Fish out those bay leaves before serving. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you want. It looks pretty and tastes great! ENJOY the cozy vibes!

Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup

• Soak beans overnight in cold water. This cuts down cooking time and makes them easier to digest.
• Use ham bone if you can find one. It adds way more smoky flavor than just plain ham.
• Don’t skip sautéing those veggies first. That’s where the flavor magic happens!
• Simmer gently instead of a hard boil so your beans stay nice and whole.
• Season at the end because ham is already salty. Always taste before adding more salt!

Variations and Substitutions

This soup is super flexible. You can change it up based on what you have in your kitchen right now!

• Navy beans substitute: Try Great Northern, cannellini, or pinto beans instead. They all get nice and creamy!
• Smoked turkey option: Swap ham for smoked turkey legs if you want something lighter but still tasty.
• Add greens: Throw in some chopped kale or spinach during the last 10 minutes for extra nutrition.
• Spicy kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like things with a little heat.

Want more hearty soups? Try my Ham and Potato Soup or this yummy Hamburger Soup for easy family dinners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned beans instead?

Yep! Use four 15-ounce cans of drained white beans. You’ll only need to simmer for 30 minutes this way. Way faster!

How do I make this in a slow cooker?

Sauté your veggies first on the stove. Then dump everything into your slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours. Super easy!

Can I freeze ham and bean soup?

For sure! Pop it in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in your fridge before reheating.

What’s the best ham to use?

Leftover ham bone with meat is perfect. Smoked ham hocks work great, too. They give you the deepest, smokiest flavor you can imagine!

Do I need to soak the beans?

Soaking overnight makes them cook faster and gives a better texture. But you can skip it if you’re in a hurry, honestly.

How do I store leftover soup?

Keep it in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently and add extra broth if needed.

What to serve with ham and bean soup?

Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple salad are perfect sides. They make it a complete meal that everyone will love. Yum!

Can I make this ahead of time?

YES! Make it 2 days ahead. The flavors get even better as it sits in your fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat.