Description
Ham and White Bean Soup is the kind of hearty, soul-warming meal that never goes out of style. It’s rustic, nourishing, and deeply satisfying—perfect for chilly evenings, cozy weekends, or anytime you want a comforting bowl of homemade goodness. This soup has humble roots, traditionally made to use up leftover ham, yet it delivers bold, slow-simmered flavor that tastes like it took all day (even when it didn’t).
The magic comes from tender white beans—such as navy beans or great northern beans—slowly cooked with savory ham, aromatic vegetables, garlic, herbs, and a rich broth. As the beans soften, they naturally thicken the soup, creating a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream. Every spoonful is packed with protein, fiber, and comforting, smoky flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, planning meals for the week, or looking for a budget-friendly recipe that feeds a crowd, Ham and White Bean Soup checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make on the stovetop, adaptable for a slow cooker or Instant Pot, and freezes beautifully for future meals.
Ingredients
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1 pound dried white beans (navy beans or great northern beans)
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1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 large onion, diced
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2 carrots, peeled and chopped
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 bay leaf
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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6–8 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
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Salt, to taste
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Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Rinse the dried beans thoroughly and remove any debris. For best results, soak the beans overnight in plenty of cold water. If you’re short on time, use the quick-soak method: boil the beans for 2 minutes, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse before using.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Add the soaked beans, ham bone (or diced ham), thyme, bay leaf, black pepper, and broth. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.
Step 4: Finish and Season
If using a ham bone, remove it from the pot. Shred any remaining meat and return it to the soup, discarding the bone. Taste and season with salt as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ham and White Bean Soup hot with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad. For extra richness, drizzle with olive oil or sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. This soup is even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge
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Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave
This makes it a fantastic option for weekly meal planning, budget-friendly family meals, and healthy comfort food recipes.
Related Questions (High-CPM SEO Keywords)
Is Ham and White Bean Soup healthy?
Yes! Ham and White Bean Soup is high in protein and fiber, making it filling and nutritious. Using low-sodium broth and lean ham keeps it heart-healthy, while beans support digestion and blood sugar balance—great for anyone focused on healthy eating or weight management.
Can I make Ham and White Bean Soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Slow cooker recipes are popular for busy households. Add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beans are tender. This method works well with modern kitchen appliances and energy-efficient cooking.
How do I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
Instant Pot recipes are perfect for saving time. Sauté the vegetables using the sauté function, add remaining ingredients, then pressure cook on high for 35 minutes with a natural release. It’s one of the easiest ways to get deep, slow-cooked flavor fast.
What are the best beans for ham soup?
Navy beans, great northern beans, and cannellini beans are the most popular choices. They hold their shape well and create a creamy texture without blending—ideal for classic soup recipes.
Can I use leftover holiday ham?
Yes, this is one of the best leftover ham recipes. It’s perfect after Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, helping reduce food waste while creating an affordable, satisfying family dinner.
How can I thicken white bean soup naturally?
Mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or blend a small portion of the soup. This keeps the recipe gluten-free and avoids adding flour or cream.
Final Thoughts
Ham and White Bean Soup is timeless for a reason. It’s comforting, affordable, and endlessly adaptable—whether you’re cooking on the stovetop, using a slow cooker, or relying on an Instant Pot. With simple ingredients and big flavor, it’s a must-have recipe for anyone who loves classic comfort food, smart meal prep, and wholesome home cooking.
