Ham and Bean Soup with Comfort Broth

Name: Ham and Bean Soup with Comfort Broth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound smoked ham, diced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love whipping up a pot of Ham and Bean Soup with Comfort Broth, especially on chilly days. The aroma that fills the kitchen as it simmers is simply irresistible. This soup combines tender beans with hearty chunks of ham, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. I also appreciate how budget-friendly it is, as many of the ingredients are pantry staples. It’s perfect for meal prep too, yielding a big batch that keeps well for future lunches or dinners.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:30:19.327Z

When I made Ham and Bean Soup for the first time, I was surprised by how easy it was to create such a flavorful dish. The secret lies in using smoked ham and a variety of aromatic vegetables. I typically start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery, allowing their natural sweetness to develop before adding the beans and broth.

This soup is not just about great taste; it also provides an opportunity to use any leftover ham you may have. By simmering it slowly, all the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting broth that is both nutritious and hearty.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and nourishing for the soul
Perfect balance of flavors with smoky undertones
Great for using up leftover ham

The Role of Beans in the Soup

The choice of beans is crucial for the texture of your Ham and Bean Soup. Dried white beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, absorb flavors beautifully and become creamy as they cook. Soaking them overnight not only shortens cooking time but also enhances their digestibility, resulting in a smoother, richer soup. After soaking, make sure to rinse the beans to remove any impurities before adding them to the pot. A visual cue to determine their doneness is when they are tender yet firm, not mushy.

If you're short on time, canned beans can be a handy substitute, but be cautious as they may change the texture of the soup. If using canned, add them later in the cooking process to prevent them from breaking down. Remember that flavor will be different—canned may lack that homemade depth, so consider adding a bit more seasoning to achieve a robust profile.

Perfecting Your Broth

The chicken broth sets a flavorful foundation for this soup, bringing out the smokiness of the ham. I recommend using low-sodium broth to ensure you can control the saltiness of the dish. You can also make it heartier by opting for homemade broth, which offers the flexibility to infuse additional herbs and spices that suit your palate. A good rule of thumb is to taste as you go; feel free to adjust the ratio based on the flavor intensity you prefer.

For added depth, consider simmering a few sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley in the broth while it cooks. Just remember to remove them before serving. If you're aiming for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the ham, though you might need to compensate for the smoky flavor. A dash of liquid smoke can provide an interesting twist!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Ham and Bean Soup is excellent for meal prep, easily storing for up to five days in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It thickens as it cools, so adding a splash of broth or water when reheating can help regain its desired consistency. For long-term storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months; just remember to label them with the date for future reference.

Serving the soup is an opportunity for creativity. I love garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika to elevate the presentation. Crusty bread on the side is an excellent choice for dipping. If you want to turn it into a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your delicious Ham and Bean Soup.

Ingredients

2 cups dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound smoked ham, diced
6 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you can start cooking your soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a hearty Ham and Bean Soup.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Ham and Beans

Stir in the diced ham and soaked beans. Mix well to combine, then pour in the chicken broth. Add the bay leaf and thyme.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 60 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth!

Your comforting Ham and Bean Soup is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice just before serving to brighten the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

If ham isn't on hand or you’re looking for a lighter dish, turkey or diced chicken can work as effective substitutes, though they will bring a slightly different flavor profile. Alternatively, smoked sausage can also provide the smoky essence that enhances the overall dish. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based sausage or skip the protein altogether; just make sure to bolster the flavor with spices and herbs.

For those who need to avoid gluten or want a grain component, consider adding small pasta or barley towards the end of the cooking time. This not only adds heartiness but also creates an inviting texture that contrasts with the creaminess of the beans.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your beans remain tough even after an hour of simmering, it could be due to older beans that have lost their ability to soften. Always check the expiration date and consider soaking your beans longer than the minimal suggested time, especially if they are older. Occasionally, using hard water can hinder bean softness; ensure you’re cooking with filtered water for the best results.

Another common issue is a soup that's too salty. If this happens, add more beans or vegetables to balance out the saltiness, or a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can help cut through the salt while adding brightness to the flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, if you're short on time, you can substitute with 2 cans of drained and rinsed beans. Just reduce the simmering time.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can easily omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead. Adding smoked paprika can give it a similar flavor profile.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it should last up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread or a fresh green salad would complement the soup perfectly for a hearty meal.