Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty bowl of Ham and Bean Soup Recipe on a chilly evening. This classic soup combines smoky ham, creamy white beans, tender vegetables, and savory herbs to create a bowlful of nourishment that tastes like home. Whether you’re gathered around the dinner table after a long day or preparing a comforting meal for guests, this recipe delivers cozy flavor in every spoonful.

I first made this soup after a holiday dinner when I had a leftover ham bone sitting in the fridge. What began as a “let’s use up leftovers” plan turned into one of the most-loved comfort recipes in my kitchen. Now it’s a regular favorite all winter long — it fills the house with an incredible aroma and fills your belly with hearty goodness.

If you love warm, rustic meals like our Black Bean Soup, Alfredo Lasagna Soup the ever-popular White Chicken Chili, you’ll absolutely want to add this ham and bean soup to your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Ham and Bean Soup

• Perfect for Leftovers – A great way to use up holiday ham or that leftover ham bone.
• Deep, Savory Flavor – The combination of slow-cooked ham and beans builds irresistible richness.
• One-Pot Simplicity – Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup and fewer dishes.
• Meal-Prep Friendly – Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or freeze for later.
• Customizable – Add more veggies, swap in different beans, or toss in greens for variety.
• Budget-Friendly – A humble, affordable soup that stretches a small amount of meat into a full meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Basic Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 medium onion, diced – yellow or white both work.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – for classic soup flavor.
• 2 carrots, chopped – adds sweetness and color.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – enhances flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – brings earthy aroma.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley – adds herby freshness.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – adjust to taste.
• 6 cups chicken broth (or water + bouillon) – base of the soup.
• 1 ham bone (with some meat on it) or 2 cups diced cooked ham – the star of the soup.
• 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed – creamy texture and mild flavor.
• 1 bay leaf – infuses subtle flavor.
• Salt to taste – added at the end after tasting.
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish – optional but recommended.

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for extra smoky depth.
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach – stirred in during the last few minutes.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste – for a deeper base flavor.

How to Make Ham and Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the veggies begin to soften and the onions become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Ham and Seasonings

Place the ham bone (or diced ham) into the pot. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, parsley, black pepper, and bay leaf. If using smoked paprika or tomato paste, add that here too. Stir everything together to coat the veggies and meat in the seasonings.

Step 3: Add Broth and Beans

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the drained beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Shred the Ham

If using a ham bone, remove it from the pot once the meat is tender and falling off. Let it cool slightly, shred the meat from the bone, and return it to the soup. Discard the bone and any fatty pieces. If using diced ham, continue simmering gently.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the salt as needed — often the ham adds plenty of salt on its own. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread.

Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup

• Use a Ham Bone for Flavor: If you have one, a bone-in ham lends incredible richness and depth.
• Low and Slow is Best: Simmering slowly brings out the full potential of the ingredients.
• Mash Some Beans for Texture: Use the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans in the pot to create a naturally thickened, creamier broth.
• Add Greens at the End: To keep spinach or kale vibrant, stir them in during the last 5 minutes.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to develop.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

Serving Ideas:

• Serve with warm cornbread, crusty sourdough, or dinner rolls.
• Add a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar for extra indulgence.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Let soup cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes! Soak 1 cup dried beans overnight, then add to the soup with broth. Simmer for 1.5–2 hours or until tender.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes — as long as your broth and ham are gluten-free certified.

What if I don’t have a ham bone?
Just use diced ham and maybe add a bit of smoked paprika for depth. You’ll still get great flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

What beans work best for this soup?
Great northern, cannellini, or navy beans are all perfect. You can also mix two types for more texture.

Final Thoughts

Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate example of turning humble ingredients into something satisfying and soul-warming. It’s a timeless classic for a reason — it’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold day or trying to make the most out of leftovers, this recipe brings comfort to your table.

Love this recipe? Explore more comforting dishes like French Dip Sandwiches, or browse our full collection at Mealova Recipes!