Ham and Bean Soup: A Cozy Family Favorite

There’s something magical about the sound of a pot bubbling away on the stove, filling the air with heartwarming aromas that awaken memories of family gatherings and cozy nights at home. Ham and bean soup embodies that magic; it warms both the belly and the soul. The savory aroma of ham mingling with tender beans invites you to gather around the table, creating a moment that feels not just like dinner but like a hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ham and bean soup is more than just a comforting dinner; it’s a culinary embrace that reminds us of simpler times. Here are a few reasons why this homemade recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:

Quick Family Meal: Ready in just under an hour, this recipe allows you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying laughter and stories.
Brings Families Together: There’s a special warmth that fills the house when this soup is simmering, perfect for gathering family and friends.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber from the beans, this soup is both nutritious and indulgent, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion.
Festive Dish: Perfect for holidays or chilly nights, it adds a festive spirit to your table.
Cozy Favorite: Each spoonful is like wrapping yourself in a soft blanket on a winter evening.

Ingredients with Notes

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own bowl of comfort:

1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables, bringing depth of flavor.
1 onion, diced – The foundation for a rich, savory base.
2 carrots, diced – Adds sweetness and color.
2 celery stalks, diced – For that classic mirepoix flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic truly elevates this dish.
4 cups chicken broth – A rich base; homemade is best if you have it.
2 cups cooked ham, diced – Use leftovers or store-bought; both work great.
2 cups cooked beans (cannellini, navy, or pinto) – If using canned, drain and rinse them to reduce sodium.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Earthy flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
1 bay leaf – Adds complexity; don’t forget to remove it before serving.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing flavors.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Brightens the dish right before serving.

Prep and Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you crave a delicious meal but don’t have hours. In less than an hour, you’ll have a pot of warm, comforting ham and bean soup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and smell fragrant.
Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen; it’s a wonderful sign!
Pour the Broth: Carefully add the chicken broth to the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck on the bottom.
Incorporate Ham and Beans: Stir in the diced ham and cooked beans, followed by the thyme and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer and Season: Lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes. This is when the flavors meld together beautifully. Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Finish with Freshness: Remove the bay leaf, and just before serving, stir in chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips and Variations

Healthier Swaps: Use turkey ham for a leaner option or skip the meat entirely for a delicious vegetarian version. Just add extra veggies and maybe a touch of smoked paprika for depth.
Seasonal Twists: Add seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
Flavor Upgrades: A splash of vinegar or squeeze of lemon at the end can brighten the entire dish, making it feel even more fresh and vibrant.

Serving Ideas

Ham and bean soup is versatile and easy to pair. Serve it with crusty bread, a crisp salad, or even a hearty grilled cheese for a nostalgic touch. Picture this: a warm bowl of soup, the crackling of a fireplace in the background, and perhaps a glass of red wine or apple cider for a cozy evening with loved ones.

Storage and Reheating

Any leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a quick meal. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Chef’s Pro Tips

Rest the Soup: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving; it helps the flavors settle and deepen.
Use Leftover Ham: This is a fantastic way to utilize leftover holiday ham, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Fresh Herbs Matter: If you can, use fresh herbs for garnish. They add a lovely brightness at the end.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead? Absolutely! Just soak them overnight and add them to the pot with the broth, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for ham? Smoked sausage or turkey can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a different flavor.
Can this be made in advance? Yes! It develops flavors beautifully and makes for great leftovers.

Conclusion

As you take that first spoonful of ham and bean soup, you’ll find more than just a meal; you’ll discover a tapestry of memories woven together with love and care. This is not just any recipe—it’s a reminder of time spent together, stories shared, and the aromas that fill your home with warmth. Try your hand at this comforting dish, share it with your loved ones, and watch as it transforms an ordinary evening into something truly special. After all, a bowl of soup is more than just food—it’s a celebration of togetherness, comfort, and joy.

Contents

1 Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and Bean Soup

A comforting, nutritious soup that combines savory ham with tender beans, perfect for family gatherings or chilly nights.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

For the soup base

1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing the vegetables, bringing depth of flavor.
1 medium onion, diced The foundation for a rich, savory base.
2 medium carrots, diced Adds sweetness and color.
2 stalks celery, diced For that classic mirepoix flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic truly elevates this dish.
4 cups chicken broth A rich base; homemade is best if you have it.

For protein and flavor

2 cups cooked ham, diced Use leftovers or store-bought; both work great.
2 cups cooked beans (cannellini, navy, or pinto) If using canned, drain and rinse them to reduce sodium.
1 teaspoon dried thyme Earthy flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
1 bay leaf Adds complexity; don’t forget to remove it before serving.
Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for enhancing flavors.

For garnish

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Brightens the dish right before serving.

Instructions

Preparation

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and smell fragrant.
Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant.

Cooking

Carefully add the chicken broth to the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck on the bottom.
Stir in the diced ham and cooked beans, followed by the thyme and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
Lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, tasting and seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

Finishing Touches

Remove the bay leaf, and stir in chopped parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

This soup can be made with leftover holiday ham and is versatile enough to accommodate turkey ham or even vegetarian variations. Adding seasonal vegetables or a splash of vinegar can enhance the flavors.

Keyword Comfort Food, easy soup, Family Meal, Ham and Bean Soup, Nutritious Soup

Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.

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