Easy Ham and Bean Soup

Easy ham and bean soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s packed with smoky ham, tender beans, and flavorful vegetables. This budget-friendly meal is perfect for using up leftover ham and comes together quickly with minimal effort. Whether you’re making it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in an Instant Pot, this hearty soup is a delicious way to enjoy a home-cooked meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Great for leftovers – Perfect for using up holiday ham.
• One-pot meal – Simple preparation and easy cleanup.
• Nutritious and hearty – Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
• Budget-friendly – Uses inexpensive pantry staples.
• Freezer-friendly – Make a big batch and store for later.

Ingredients

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

• Cooked ham, diced
• Great Northern beans or cannellini beans (canned or dried)
• Onion, chopped
• Carrots, diced
• Celery, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Bay leaf
• Dried thyme
• Black pepper
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt (adjust as needed)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Sauté the vegetables – In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add ham and seasonings – Stir in diced ham, thyme, black pepper, and the bay leaf.
3. Add beans and broth – Pour in the chicken broth and add the beans. Stir well.
4. Simmer – Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Adjust seasoning – Taste and add salt if needed (ham can be salty, so test before adding).
6. Serve – Remove the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Slow Cooker Version – Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• Instant Pot Version – Sauté the veggies using the “Sauté” function, then add remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
• Smoky Flavor Boost – Add smoked paprika or a smoked ham hock for extra depth.
• Thicker Soup – Mash some of the beans or blend a portion for a creamier texture.
• Vegetable-Packed – Add diced potatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute increments until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes! Soak 1 cup of dried beans overnight, then drain and cook them in the soup for 1.5-2 hours until tender.

What’s the best type of ham to use?

Leftover holiday ham, smoked ham hock, or diced ham steak all work well.

Do I need to add salt?

Taste before adding salt, as ham is naturally salty. Adjust as needed.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! Navy beans, pinto beans, or black beans can be substituted.

How can I make this soup creamy?

Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or mash some of the beans.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a delicious meat-free version.

How do I add more flavor?

Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.

Can I add potatoes to this soup?

Yes! Diced potatoes add extra heartiness and pair well with ham and beans.

What’s the best way to serve this soup?

Enjoy it with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Easy ham and bean soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re making it to use up leftovers or preparing a comforting meal for your family, this soup is hearty, nourishing, and full of rich, savory flavors. Try it once, and it might become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

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