Easy Ham and Bean Soup: A Hearty Comfort Food

Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor? This easy ham and bean soup is the perfect solution! Packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of savory goodness, this classic ham and bean soup is perfect for cozy dinners or using up leftover ham from holiday meals. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can have a delicious, homemade soup recipe ready in no time.

Whether you’re a fan of ham soup recipes, looking for a way to use up leftover ham, or simply craving a filling soup dinner, this ham and bean soup is sure to become a go-to meal in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, budget-friendly soup!

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Why You’ll Love This Ham and Bean Soup

This classic ham & bean soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and filling. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this ham soup comes together quickly and easily, making it the perfect weeknight meal.
• Comforting and Hearty: The combination of tender beans and smoky ham creates a comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly nights.
• Use Up Leftovers: If you have leftover ham, this is the perfect way to turn it into a tasty meal, saving you both time and money.
• Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to fit your preferences. Add extra vegetables, change the type of beans, or spice it up with a little heat for a customized version.

For more quick and easy bean soup recipes, check out our Easy Bean Soup for other variations!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Ham and Bean Soup

To make this ham and beans soup, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb dry navy beans (or other white beans)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 3 cups cooked ham, diced (perfect for using up leftover ham)
• Salt and pepper to taste

This simple ingredient list will create a rich, flavorful ham and bean soup that’s both hearty and comforting, perfect for a quick homemade dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Ham and Bean Soup

Let’s get started with making this classic ham & bean soup! Follow these simple steps for a delicious homemade soup:

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

If you’re using dry navy beans (or any dry beans), it’s a good idea to soak them overnight in water to help them cook faster and be more tender. If you’re short on time, you can use the quick soak method: bring the beans to a boil in a large pot, turn off the heat, and let them sit for an hour before draining and rinsing. Alternatively, you can use canned beans for a faster version.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasoning

To the sautéed vegetables, add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring everything to a simmer, then cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Ham

Add your soaked and drained beans (or canned beans) and diced ham to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the soup back to a simmer. Let it cook for another 45 minutes to 1 hour (if using dry beans) or 20-30 minutes (if using canned beans) until the beans are tender and the soup is thickened.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, then taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete, satisfying meal!

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Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup

Here are a few tips to make sure your ham and bean soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Soak the beans: Soaking dry beans overnight or using the quick-soak method helps to reduce cooking time and ensures tender beans.
• Use leftover ham: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover ham after the holidays. You can also use ham hocks or smoked sausage for added flavor.
• Customize with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or spinach to make the soup even heartier.
• Control the seasoning: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to spice things up.

For more ways to use up your leftover ham, try our Ham and Potato Soup.

Delicious Variations of Ham and Bean Soup

While this recipe is fantastic on its own, you can add some variety with these delicious twists:

• Smoked ham: If you prefer a smoky flavor, use smoked ham or a ham hock for deeper, richer taste.
• Spicy ham and bean soup: Add a bit of jalapeño or crushed red pepper flakes to bring some heat to the soup.
• Vegetarian version: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian version of this soup.

How to Serve and Pair Ham and Bean Soup

This ham and bean soup is a perfect one-pot meal, but here are a few ways to elevate your meal:

• Serve with bread: Pair the soup with slices of crusty bread, garlic bread, or cornbread to soak up all the delicious broth.
• Add a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
• Top with cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or parmesan on top of each bowl for added creaminess and flavor.

For more easy and hearty soups, check out our collection of Homemade Soup Recipes for more dinner ideas.

How to Store Leftovers and Reheat

This soup is great for meal prep! Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the soup in a pot over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Ham and Bean Soup

To ensure your ham and bean soup turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Not soaking the beans: Soaking the beans is important for reducing the cooking time and ensuring a creamy texture.
• Overcooking the beans: Keep an eye on the beans as they cook. Overcooking them can make the soup too mushy.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Be sure to taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preference.

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FAQs About Ham and Bean Soup

Can I use canned beans instead of dry beans?
Yes, canned beans work perfectly for this recipe. Just drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the soup.

How do I make this soup thicker?
To make the soup thicker, you can mash a portion of the beans with a spoon or potato masher, then stir them back into the soup. This will give it a creamier texture.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply sauté the vegetables in a pan, then add them along with the beans, broth, and ham to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Final Thoughts + Share and Subscribe for More Easy Soup Recipes

This easy ham and bean soup is a comforting, budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for using up leftover ham or creating a hearty, homemade meal. Whether you’re looking for a ham soup recipe for a quick dinner or want a dish that’s easy to make in advance, this soup is a reliable choice that will please everyone at the table.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with friends, pin it for later, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious soup dinner ideas and ham soup recipes!

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