Comforting Ham and Bean Soup Recipe: A Cozy Hearty Classic

On chilly winter nights, a steaming bowl of hearty ham and bean soup brings warmth and comfort to the soul.

This classic recipe blends savory ham with creamy beans in a rich, satisfying broth.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this simple yet delicious dish that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

The tender ham chunks and soft beans create a delightful texture that makes every spoonful deeply satisfying.

Packed with protein and robust flavors, this soup offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and homestyle cooking.

Each ingredient tells a story of traditional comfort food that nourishes both body and spirit.

Grab a spoon and savor the wholesome goodness waiting in this beloved recipe.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Calories: 220 kcal

Servings: 9

Ingredients That Make Ham and Bean Soup Rich

• Dried Beans or Canned Beans: Hearty protein powerhouse that provides rich texture and fills you up, choose organic or low-sodium varieties for healthier options.
• Chicken Broth: Liquid foundation creating deep flavor profile, select low-sodium versions for better salt control.

• Onion, Carrots, Celery: Classic flavor-building trio that adds natural sweetness and depth, select fresh and firm vegetables with vibrant colors.
• Garlic: Powerful flavor enhancer that boosts overall taste complexity, choose firm bulbs without sprouting.

• Ham: Smoky meat component adding rich umami flavor, opt for lean cuts with minimal fat for healthier version.
• Bay Leaves, Thyme: Herbal aromatics that infuse subtle earthy undertones, choose fresh herbs for more vibrant taste.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings for balancing and highlighting soup's natural flavors, use freshly ground black pepper for best results.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright garnish adding color and fresh herbal note, choose crisp green leaves without wilting.

Tools for Simmering Ham and Bean Soup

• Large Pot: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the entire soup.
• Cutting Board: Perfect for chopping onions, carrots, celery, and ham.
• Chef's Knife: Sharp tool for precise vegetable and ham cutting.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring and mixing ingredients during cooking.
• Measuring Cups: Helpful for accurate broth and bean measurements.
• Ladle: Ideal for serving the hot soup into bowls.
• Colander: Useful for draining and rinsing beans.

How to Prepare a Warm Bowl of Ham and Bean Soup

• Soften Aromatic Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot. Toss in chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until veggies become tender and release their delicious fragrance, stirring occasionally.

• Introduce Protein and Liquid

Drop cubed ham into the pot with softened vegetables. Pour in chicken broth, then sprinkle bay leaves and thyme. Mix in your prepared beans, stirring everything together.

• Create Flavor

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then dial down the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the soup bubble away, developing rich flavors for 1-2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

• Perfect the Finishing Touches

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Pull out the bay leaves. Ladle the steaming soup into warm bowls. Scatter fresh parsley on top for a vibrant, fresh kick that brightens the entire dish.

Flavor Boosts to Elevate Ham and Bean Soup Even More

• Canned beans can save serious time without compromising flavor – just rinse thoroughly to reduce sodium and ensure a cleaner taste profile.
• Transfer ingredients to a slow cooker after sautéing vegetables and let the soup simmer on low for 6-8 hours for deeply developed flavors and ultra-tender beans.
• Replace ham with smoked turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner protein option that still delivers incredible smoky undertones.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions – just double-check your broth and ham are certified gluten-free.
• Toss in additional vegetables like diced zucchini, spinach, or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking to increase nutritional value and add vibrant colors and textures.

Serving Ham and Bean Soup That Warms the Soul

• Rustic Bread Companion: Slice crusty sourdough or herb-infused bread to dunk into the warm soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors and adding a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.
• Cheese Sprinkle Delight: Top the soup with freshly grated parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt slightly and create a creamy, tangy layer that complements the hearty ham and beans.
• Fresh Herb Finish: Chop a handful of fresh parsley, chives, or green onions to sprinkle over the top, bringing a bright, fresh note that cuts through the rich, comforting soup and adds a pop of vibrant color.
• Zippy Side Salad: Pair the soup with a light mixed green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup's richness and provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, filling dish.

Storing Ham and Bean Soup Without Losing Heartiness

• Store the soup in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. Cool the soup completely before sealing to maintain optimal taste and texture.
• Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Properly stored, ham and bean soup freezes beautifully for 2-3 months without losing its rich flavor profile.
• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Warm gently on stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore original consistency. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even heating.
• Double the recipe and portion into single-serve containers. This creates convenient grab-and-go meals for busy weekdays, saving time and ensuring delicious, homemade nutrition is always within reach.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of beans for this soup?

Absolutely! Navy beans, great northern beans, or cannellini beans work perfectly. Each variety offers a slightly different texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

• Is this soup nutritious?

Yes, this soup is packed with protein from the ham and beans, plus vitamins from the vegetables. It’s a balanced, hearty meal that provides essential nutrients and keeps you full.

• Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can replace ham with smoked tofu or add extra vegetables like mushrooms for a similar depth of flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it completely vegetarian.

• How can I make the soup more spicy?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or some diced jalapeños during the sautéing stage. These will introduce a nice kick to the soup without overwhelming the other flavors.

Cozy Hearty Ham And Bean Soup Recipe

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4.6 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 9 1x

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Description

Rustic Hearty Ham and Bean Soup beckons comfort seekers with its rich, savory profile from traditional American kitchens. Simmering ham bones, white beans, and aromatic vegetables create a soul-warming meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb dried navy or Great Northern beans (or 4 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 2 cups diced ham (or 1 ham bone or hock for more flavor)
• 8 cups (1.9 l) water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 0.5 tsp dried thyme
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce or diced tomatoes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Rinse beans thoroughly, draining excess liquid. If using dried beans, soak overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
2. Aromatic Base: In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil over medium heat until vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness, creating a flavor-packed foundation for the soup.
3. Flavor Layering: Introduce minced garlic and cubed ham, stirring to distribute evenly and allow the ingredients to develop a rich, complex taste profile. Pour in chicken broth to cover the mixture completely.
4. Seasoning and Simmering: Add bay leaves and dried thyme, then incorporate beans. Bring the soup to a vigorous boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Allow the ingredients to meld and develop deep, comforting flavors.
5. Cooking Process: For dried beans, maintain a low simmer for 1-1.5 hours until beans reach a creamy consistency. With canned beans, reduce cooking time to 25-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finishing Touches: Remove bay leaves and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. The soup should have a harmonious balance of flavors, with each ingredient contributing to the overall depth.
7. Serving: Ladle the soup into warm bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley to add a bright, herbaceous note and visual appeal to the hearty dish.

Notes

Choose Quality Beans: Select fresh, intact dried beans or low-sodium canned varieties to control salt content and ensure optimal texture and flavor.

Prevent Bean Burning: Stir vegetables and beans frequently during cooking to avoid scorching and maintain even heat distribution for consistent taste.

Control Liquid Levels: Monitor broth quantity throughout simmering, adding more if soup becomes too thick, ensuring creamy consistency without drying out.

Enhance Dietary Flexibility: Substitute ham with smoked turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein for low-fat, vegetarian, or allergen-friendly adaptations while preserving rich soup profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 9
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 500 mg
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Protein: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg