Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

Looking for a cozy, filling meal? This Hearty Ham and Bean Soup recipe is perfect for those who crave warmth and nourishment. Made with savory ham, tender beans, and a blend of aromatic vegetables, this soup is easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with protein and fiber. Whether you’re using up leftover ham or craving a classic comfort food, this recipe will deliver a wholesome, homemade flavor that’s hard to beat.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

This hearty soup is beloved for its rich, smoky taste and the comfort it brings on cool days. It’s a great way to make the most of leftover ham and doesn’t require complex ingredients. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy it whenever you need a quick, delicious meal.

Ingredients for Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

To make this flavorful soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked ham (cubed)
• 1 lb dried white beans (such as navy or cannellini, soaked overnight)
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 3-4 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 3 carrots (sliced)
• 3 celery stalks (sliced)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1-2 tsp dried thyme (optional for added flavor)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

1. Prepare the Beans: If using dried beans, drain and rinse them after soaking. If you’re in a hurry, you can substitute with canned beans—just be sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the soup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are softened (about 5-7 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Ham and Broth: Add the cubed ham, chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir in the drained beans.
4. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let the soup cook for about 1-2 hours or until beans are tender, stirring occasionally. If you’re using canned beans, simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Season and Serve: Once the soup is ready, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor.

Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup

• Choose Quality Ham: Use leftover ham with a bit of fat for added flavor, or pick up a ham hock for a smokier taste.
• Make it Thick or Brothy: For a thicker consistency, mash a few beans against the pot’s side while simmering. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth as needed.
• Add Greens: Consider tossing in some spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I freeze ham and bean soup?
A: Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.

Q: Can I use a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.

Q: What beans are best for ham and bean soup?
A: White beans like navy or cannellini beans are commonly used for their creamy texture, but feel free to experiment with pinto or great northern beans.

Nutritional Benefits of Ham and Bean Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Beans are rich in fiber, which aids digestion, and ham provides a source of protein to keep you full. The variety of vegetables in this recipe also contributes essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish both comforting and nutritious.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this hearty ham and bean soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete, balanced meal. For a southern twist, pair it with cornbread, which complements the savory flavors wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Ham and Bean Soup is an ideal recipe for anyone craving a satisfying, easy-to-make meal that tastes like home. Whether for lunch or dinner, it’s the perfect way to repurpose leftover ham while creating a meal everyone will love. Try it out and enjoy the rich flavors that make this soup a classic favorite!

Serving and Storage Tips for Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

Serving Tips

• Garnish Ideas: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dash of smoked paprika, or even a drizzle of olive oil for added depth of flavor.
• Pair with Sides: This soup is especially delicious with warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread to dip into the broth. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a simple green salad.
• Add a Creamy Twist: For a creamier version, add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This gives a velvety texture to the soup and balances the savory flavors.

Storage Tips

• In the Refrigerator: Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen, making it even more delicious the next day.
• In the Freezer: Ham and bean soup freezes very well. After cooling, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating Tips

• On the Stovetop: Reheat the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little broth or water if it has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.
• In the Microwave: Heat individual servings in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.

With these tips, you can easily enjoy leftovers that taste just as good as the day you made them!

1. Can I make this soup with canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can! If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup. Since canned beans are already cooked, reduce the simmering time to about 20-30 minutes, just enough to let the flavors meld without overcooking the beans.

2. Can I use a ham bone or ham hock instead of diced ham?
Absolutely. A ham bone or ham hock will add even more depth of flavor to the soup. Simply add it in the beginning along with the broth and beans, and let it simmer. Once the soup is ready, remove the bone or hock, shred any meat, and return it to the pot before serving.

3. What are good substitutes if I don’t have ham on hand?
If you don’t have ham, smoked sausage, bacon, or even smoked turkey can work well as substitutes. Each will add a unique smoky flavor to the soup that complements the beans nicely.

4. How can I make this soup thicker?
For a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans against the pot with a spoon while the soup is simmering. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to blend a small portion of the soup, which will thicken it without adding extra ingredients.

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