The timeless flavors of ham and beans come together in this cozy, slow-simmered soup that’s rich in tradition and packed with protein. With a handful of pantry staples and a leftover ham bone or diced ham, you can make this nourishing dish that’s been a comfort food favorite for generations. Perfect for fall and winter nights, this Classic Ham and Bean Soup fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aroma and your bowl with warmth. It’s budget-friendly, hearty enough to stand alone as a main meal, and even better the next day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb dry navy beans, rinsed and sorted
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1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 carrots, peeled and diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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6 cups low sodium chicken broth
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1 bay leaf
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1/2 tsp dried thyme
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Soak navy beans overnight in a large bowl of water. Drain and rinse before using.
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In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the drained beans, ham bone or diced ham, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2–2.5 hours or until the beans are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally.
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Remove the bay leaf and ham bone if using. If using a bone, remove meat, chop, and return it to the pot.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
The Comfort and Tradition Behind Classic Ham and Bean Soup
When the weather turns chilly and comfort food starts to call, few dishes answer quite like a warm bowl of Ham and Bean Soup. This timeless classic is more than just a recipe it’s a rich, nostalgic meal that carries history, resourcefulness, and heartiness in every bite. Made with simple pantry staples and leftover ham or a meaty ham bone, it’s an economical, nutritious, and deeply satisfying soup that has earned a place in kitchens for generations.
Whether you’re looking to use up holiday leftovers, feed a hungry family, or simply enjoy a wholesome bowl of something warm and hearty, Classic Ham and Bean Soup delivers on all fronts.
A Dish Rooted in Tradition
The origins of ham and bean soup can be traced back to old-world peasant dishes where frugality met nourishment. Beans have long been a staple in many cultures due to their affordability and high nutritional content. When paired with leftover meats like ham or pork bones, they became the base for a fulfilling, slow-cooked meal that could stretch across several days.
In the United States, ham and bean soup is often associated with traditional Southern and Midwestern cooking, where the practice of using every part of the animal gave rise to a variety of soul-satisfying meals. It’s particularly popular after holidays like Easter and Christmas, when ham leftovers are plentiful.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are humble beans, ham, aromatics like onions and garlic, and broth but when simmered slowly together, they transform into a rich, velvety, and deeply flavorful dish that warms you from the inside out.
Why This Soup Stands Out
There are many reasons to love this particular version of ham and bean soup:
1. Versatility
This soup is incredibly forgiving and easy to adapt. You can use a ham bone, diced leftover ham, or even smoked sausage. If you don’t have navy beans, cannellini or great northern beans make excellent substitutes. Add extra vegetables like diced tomatoes, kale, or potatoes for even more texture and flavor.
2. Nutritional Value
Ham and bean soup is a powerhouse when it comes to nutrition. Beans are high in plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and B vitamins. When paired with ham, the soup becomes even more protein-rich. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free.
3. Great for Meal Prep
Like many soups, this dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping or batch cooking. A large pot can last several meals, and it also freezes wonderfully, allowing you to enjoy homemade comfort food even on your busiest days.
Tips for Making the Best Ham and Bean Soup
Although the ingredient list is simple, there are a few tips and tricks that will elevate your soup from good to great:
Soak Your Beans
Soaking dried beans overnight helps them cook faster and more evenly. It also makes them easier to digest by reducing some of the indigestible sugars that can cause gas. If you’re in a pinch, the quick soak method (boiling the beans for a few minutes and then letting them rest) is a great alternative.
Use a Meaty Ham Bone
If you have a leftover ham bone with some meat still attached, it adds incredible depth of flavor. As the bone simmers, it releases collagen and marrow, which thickens the broth and enhances the richness of the soup. Once cooked, the meat can be shredded and added back in for a satisfying texture.
Season at the End
Ham and broth can be salty, so it’s best to wait until the end of the cooking process before adjusting the seasoning. Taste the soup once it’s finished simmering and then add salt and pepper as needed.
Low and Slow is Key
Simmering the soup gently over low heat for a couple of hours gives the flavors time to develop and meld beautifully. Patience pays off with this dish.
Storage and Reheating
In the Fridge
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. In fact, many say it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen.
In the Freezer
Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or microwave.
Variations to Try
If you’re looking to customize the soup to your tastes or dietary needs, there are plenty of easy ways to do so:
Smoky Ham and Bean Soup
Add a dash of smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a deeper, smoky flavor that complements the ham beautifully.
Vegetable-Packed Version
Boost the nutrition with added greens like spinach, kale, or collard greens. Diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash also make lovely additions.
Creamy Ham and Bean Soup
If you prefer a thicker, creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before serving or stir in a splash of cream.
Spicy Kick
Toss in a diced jalapeño or a few red pepper flakes for some gentle heat to contrast with the sweetness of the ham.
Why You’ll Make This Again and Again
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that’s both wholesome and comforting. This ham and bean soup is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s easy enough for weeknights, yet hearty enough to serve as the centerpiece for a family dinner.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste and stretch leftovers into another full meal. That alone makes it a smart and sustainable option in today’s kitchens.
Conclusion:
Classic Ham and Bean Soup is a staple that has stood the test of time for good reason. With its rich broth, tender beans, and savory ham, it’s a one-pot wonder that satisfies both your appetite and your soul. Whether you’re craving comfort, seeking a nourishing weeknight meal, or simply looking for a creative way to use up leftovers, this soup is your go-to.
It’s not flashy or trendy, but it’s exactly the kind of dish that becomes a beloved family tradition one bowl at a time.