Ham & Bean Soup is a comforting classic that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a hearty, wholesome meal. Packed with tender vegetables, savory ham, and creamy beans, this soup is not only satisfying but also easy to make with pantry staples. Whether you’re using leftover ham or a ham bone for extra flavor, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
What Is Ham & Bean Soup?
Ham & Bean Soup is a traditional soup featuring diced ham, creamy beans, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s a versatile dish, often made with great northern or cannellini beans, and seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. This one-pot meal is ideal for using up leftover ham and can be customized with greens like kale or spinach for added nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Uses simple, everyday ingredients and comes together in one pot.
- Hearty and Filling: A complete meal loaded with protein, fiber, and veggies.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- Customizable: Add greens, swap beans, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
- Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep and storing for future meals.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb cooked ham, diced (or a ham bone)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 cup chopped kale or spinach

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Adding the Broth and Ham
- Add the diced ham (or ham bone) to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the beans, thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmering the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
Adding Greens (Optional)
- If using kale or spinach, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt.
Final Touches
- Remove the bay leaf and ham bone (if used). Shred any ham from the bone and return it to the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions
- Pair with cornbread, crusty bread, or garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.
Storing and Freezing
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezing Instructions
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium chicken broth and adjust the salt to taste.
- Bean Swap: Substitute navy beans, pinto beans, or black beans for variety.
- Herbs: Add fresh rosemary or parsley for an herby twist.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, soak 1 cup of dried beans overnight, then cook them separately before adding them to the soup.
What can I use instead of ham?
You can use smoked sausage, turkey, or even bacon for a different flavor profile.
How do I thicken the soup?
Mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or blend a small portion of the soup and return it to the pot.
Ham & Bean Soup is a timeless recipe that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy weeknight meal or a make-ahead option for busy days, this hearty soup is sure to please. Try it today, and let us know how it turned out in the comments!
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Ham & Bean Soup Recipe: A Hearty and Comforting Meal
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This hearty Ham & Bean Soup is packed with tender vegetables, savory ham, and creamy beans, simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s the perfect comforting meal for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb cooked ham, diced (or a ham bone)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the ham or ham bone to the pot, followed by the chicken broth, beans, thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- If using kale or spinach, stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Allow it to wilt.
- Remove the bay leaf and ham bone, if used. Shred any ham from the bone and return it to the soup.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite bread.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Variations: Swap great northern beans for navy or pinto beans. Add a spicy kick with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Thickening Tip: Mash some of the beans in the pot for a creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250 kcal per serving