Nothing feels quite as cozy and satisfying as a steaming bowl of Ham & Bean Soup. This hearty, nutritious dish combines tender, flavorful ham with creamy beans and a medley of fresh vegetables to create a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving something wholesome and nourishing, this Ham & Bean Soup recipe offers the perfect blend of rich flavors and satisfying textures to warm your soul and please your palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating an unforgettable Ham & Bean Soup couldn’t be simpler—each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and delivering the perfect texture. From smoky ham to crisp vegetables, every component comes together to create a symphony of tastes you’ll love.

Dried white beans (navy or great northern): These provide a creamy, hearty base and soak up the soup’s rich flavors perfectly.
Smoked ham hock or diced ham: The star protein that adds smoky, savory depth and a delightful meaty texture.
Onion (yellow or white): Provides a natural sweetness and a subtle aromatic base.
Carrots: Add a gentle sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery stalks: Contribute a fresh, earthy crunch and balance to the flavor.
Garlic cloves: Infuse the soup with a warm, savory undertone that ties the whole dish together.
Bay leaves: Bring a subtle, woodsy fragrance that enhances the overall aroma.
Fresh thyme: Adds a touch of herbal brightness and complexity.
Chicken broth: Acts as the flavorful liquid base, intensifying every ingredient’s deliciousness.
Salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika: Essential seasonings that bring just the right amount of zing and warmth.

How to Make Ham & Bean Soup

Step 1: Prep Your Beans

Start by rinsing your dried beans thoroughly under cold water, then choose your preferred soaking method. For the best results, soak them overnight in plenty of water, which softens the beans and shortens cooking time while enhancing digestibility. If you’re short on time, the quick soak method works well: boil the beans for a few minutes, then let them soak for an hour before draining.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large soup pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat and add your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook gently until the vegetables become tender and fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. Then add minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release its wonderful aroma without burning it.

Step 3: Combine Beans, Ham, and Broth

Now for the magic: add your soaked, drained beans along with the diced ham (or ham hock) into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, then toss in your bay leaves, fresh thyme, and season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring this hearty mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot partially to let the soup simmer gently. Allow the beans and ham to cook together for 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer melds the flavors beautifully, yielding a comforting soup with tender beans and rich, smoky ham pieces.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving Prep

Before serving, taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaves and thyme stems. If you used a ham hock, shred any remaining meat into the soup for an extra dose of meaty goodness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each spoonful.

How to Serve Ham & Bean Soup

Garnishes

Although the soup is delicious on its own, a few garnishes can really elevate your bowl of Ham & Bean Soup. Try topping it with freshly chopped parsley, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for added aroma. For a bit of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully on warm soup.

Side Dishes

Pairing your soup with the right side dishes transforms dinner into a truly satisfying meal. Crusty bread, garlic baguette slices, or homemade cornbread are fantastic choices to soak up the flavorful broth. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a crisp counterbalance to the soup’s deep richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this soup for guests or a cozy family night, presentation matters. Ladle the soup into rustic ceramic bowls for a farmhouse feel or serve it in bread bowls to make the meal extra special. Garnish with fresh herbs or a swirl of cream for an inviting and Instagram-worthy finish that gets everyone excited to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Ham & Bean Soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days when stored in airtight containers. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness. When reheated, the flavors often deepen, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

This soup is a perfect candidate for freezing, especially if you make a big batch. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zipper bags, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen Ham & Bean Soup retains its quality for up to 4 to 6 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of broth, water, or even a touch of cream can help restore the soup’s original luscious texture. Microwaving works in a pinch but may slightly alter texture; if you choose this method, heat in short intervals and stir often for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Absolutely! Canned beans are a great shortcut for Ham & Bean Soup, cutting down cooking time dramatically. Just be sure to rinse and drain them well to avoid excess salt and starch. Add them later in the cooking process, as they only need to warm through rather than cook.

What kind of ham works best in Ham & Bean Soup?

Smoked ham hocks or leftover holiday ham bones are ideal because they add deep smoky richness and flavor. If you don’t have a ham bone, diced smoked ham or ham steak also works wonderfully. The key is to have some fat and smoky notes for a full-bodied soup.

How do I make the soup thicker if I like it heartier?

If you prefer a thicker soup, scoop out a cup or two of beans once cooked and mash them before stirring back into the pot. This adds natural creaminess without needing extra thickeners, giving your Ham & Bean Soup a luscious body and rich mouthfeel.

Is it necessary to soak the beans?

Soaking beans helps reduce cooking time and improves texture, making them easier to digest. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip soaking and simply cook the beans longer, but keep an eye on your liquid levels as unsoaked beans will absorb more broth.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Using a slow cooker is a fantastic way to make Ham & Bean Soup with minimal effort. Just combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until beans are tender and flavors meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a bowl of homemade Ham & Bean Soup—it’s not just food, it’s a hug in a bowl that warms your spirit and fills your home with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re cooking for your family or craving a classic comfort meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite staple. So grab your ingredients, cozy up in your kitchen, and savor every delicious spoonful of this timeless soup!

Ham & Bean Soup Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 23 reviews

Author: Julian
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (excluding bean soaking)
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This classic ham and bean soup recipe combines tender ham, creamy white beans, and fresh vegetables in a rich, comforting broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal that brings families together with its nostalgic flavors and warming essence.

Instructions

Soak the Beans: Rinse the dried beans thoroughly and soak them overnight in cold water, or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2-3 minutes, removing from heat, and letting them sit covered for 1 hour. Drain and rinse before cooking.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add Beans, Ham, and Broth: To the pot, add the soaked beans, diced ham, ham bone or hock if using, and chicken broth. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
Season the Soup: Add bay leaves, fresh thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently, uncovered, for 1 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help break down the beans slightly for a creamy texture.
Remove Ham Bone and Adjust Seasoning: Remove the ham bone, and if desired, shred any remaining meat from it back into the soup. Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread if desired for a comforting meal.

Notes

Using a ham bone or ham hock adds deep flavor but is optional if you only have diced ham.
Overnight soaking of beans reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
Simmer the soup gently to keep beans intact and to develop rich flavors.
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Soup freezes well for 4-6 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
When reheating, add a bit of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Microwaving is possible but slow stovetop reheating preserves texture best.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight soaking time)
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American