Easy Ham and Bean Soup

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Warm, hearty, and incredibly easy to throw together, this Easy Ham and Bean Soup is the cozy dinner you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover holiday ham or simply want something nourishing on a chilly evening, this soup checks all the boxes. The combination of smoky ham, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth creates a comfort classic that delivers every time.

What makes this soup a winner is how forgiving and adaptable it is. You can use canned or dried beans, leftover bone-in ham, or even a ham steak. It’s a one-pot wonder that practically makes itself, ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. A side of crusty bread is all you need to make this a full, satisfying meal.

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What Kind of Ham Should I Use?

This soup is super flexible when it comes to the ham. If you have a leftover ham bone with some meat on it, that’s ideal—the bone adds incredible flavor to the broth. But a diced ham steak, thick-cut deli ham, or even smoked sausage works well too. Just be sure to adjust the salt based on how salty your ham is.

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Ingredients for the Easy Ham and Bean Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15 oz) can great northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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How To Make the Easy Ham and Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in minced garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Ham and Beans

Add diced ham, drained beans, chicken broth, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Taste and add salt if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Remove bay leaf, garnish with parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

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How to Serve and Store Easy Ham and Bean Soup

Ladle this rich soup into deep bowls and top with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs perfectly with a hunk of crusty bread, cornbread, or even a simple grilled cheese on the side.

Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just leave a little room at the top of the container to allow for expansion.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans in the pot with a spoon or use an immersion blender for a quick blend.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, soak and cook the beans beforehand. You’ll need about 3 cups of cooked beans total.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth and ham are gluten-free, the entire recipe is safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I make it vegetarian?

You can! Skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more beans or even diced potatoes for heartiness.

What other beans can I use?

Navy beans, pinto beans, or butter beans are great alternatives if you don’t have great northern or cannellini on hand.

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Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this easy ham and bean soup, check out some other warm and hearty bowls from Nina Dishes:

• Cozy Chicken Vegetable Soup Recipe — a nourishing classic with plenty of veggies.
• Cajun White Chicken Chili — creamy, spicy, and protein-packed.
• Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque — for when you’re craving something indulgent.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts — not a soup, but still cozy and satisfying.
• Shipwreck Dinner: A Hearty One-Pan Classic — another warming favorite for family dinners.

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Tried this recipe? Drop a comment below! Did you go with classic ham or toss in sausage? Add hot sauce? I’d love to hear your variations. Cooking is always better when we share our tweaks and tips.

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