Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty and warm dish made with ham, white beans, and simple seasonings. It’s perfect for chilly days and comfort food lovers who enjoy a filling, easy-to-make meal.
I like to think of it as a hug in a bowl. Sometimes I add a little extra ham just to make it even tastier—no one complains!
For a quick meal, I use canned beans and leftover ham. It saves time and makes the soup ready in about 30 minutes. Easy and delicious!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ham:
I use cooked ham or leftovers for a rich, meaty flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, try smoked ham for an extra smoky note. Unsalted ham works well; just add a pinch of salt if needed. You can also use diced turkey or bacon as substitutes.
White Beans:
I recommend great northern or navy beans for their creamy texture. For convenience, canned beans are a quick choice—just rinse well! Dried beans need soaking and longer cooking but give a hearty texture. Chickpeas are a nice alternative too.
Onion:
Adds depth and sweetness. I always sauté it until transparent to enhance flavor. Shallots can be a sweeter substitute, and frozen chopped onions save prep time. Use green onions as a fresh topping instead of cooked for a milder taste.
Garlic:
It boosts flavor and aroma. I press or mince garlic finely so it disperses evenly. If you love a subtle garlic flavor, use less; for a stronger punch, add extra near the end of cooking. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch but fresh is best.
Vegetable Broth:
I prefer low-sodium broth for control over salt. It enriches flavor without saltiness. You could substitute chicken broth or even water with added seasonings if needed. It keeps the soup light yet flavorful.
How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick or too thin?
To get the right consistency, simmer the soup gently. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth or water and stir well. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce. Adjust seasoning after reaching your desired thickness.
How to Make Ham and Bean Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Core Ingredients
- 1 pound dried navy beans or great northern beans
- 1 pound cooked ham, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep: 15 minutes, Cook: 2 hours, Total: about 2 hours 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beans
Sort and rinse the beans. Soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain before cooking to reduce cooking time.
2. Cook the Beans
In a large pot, add beans and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until beans are tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked beans, chopped ham, chicken broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the Soup
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally. Remove bay leaf before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with bread or crackers. Enjoy your hearty ham and bean soup!
