Easy Ham and Bean Soup

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A warm, cozy bowl of Easy Ham and Bean Soup is just the kind of comfort food that soothes the soul and fills you up after a chilly day. This recipe transforms a handful of pantry staples into something that tastes like it simmered for hours, even though it’s weeknight-friendly and packed with flavor.

The smoky richness from the ham, the tender white beans, and the mix of carrots, celery, and aromatic herbs create a hearty, satisfying dish. Whether you’re using leftover ham from a holiday meal or a quick store-bought version, this soup delivers on both taste and ease.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the perfect Easy Ham and Bean Soup, your kitchen should be stocked with a few essential tools:

• Large Dutch Oven or Soup Pot: This is where all the magic happens. A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even heat distribution, which helps everything cook at a steady pace and brings out the best flavors.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For chopping carrots, celery, onions, and ham with precision and ease. A good knife makes prep quicker and safer.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: These tools are ideal for stirring without damaging your pot’s surface and help scrape the flavorful bits off the bottom as the soup simmers.
• Ladle: To serve generous, mess-free portions of soup into bowls.
• Cutting Board: A large, stable board provides space for prepping all your vegetables and meats cleanly.

These tools don’t just streamline your cooking process—they ensure everything is cooked to perfection and make cleanup a breeze.

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Ingredients for the Easy Ham and Bean Soup

Every ingredient in this soup plays a key role in creating a layered, comforting flavor that feels both rustic and refined:

• Cooked Ham: Diced ham brings a smoky, savory note. It’s the heart of the soup and adds protein and depth.
• White Beans (Cannellini or Great Northern): Creamy and mild, they absorb the broth’s flavors beautifully and provide hearty texture.
• Carrots: Their natural sweetness balances the saltiness of the ham and gives color and freshness.
• Celery: Adds crunch and an aromatic foundation that pairs perfectly with the onion and herbs.
• Yellow Onion: Delivers sweetness and umami once sautéed; it’s a flavor base you don’t want to skip.
• Garlic: Minced garlic deepens the flavor and brings warmth.
• Chicken Broth: Acts as the savory liquid base, tying all the ingredients together.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and help release their aromas.
• Bay Leaf & Fresh Thyme: These herbs infuse the soup with earthy undertones.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste—they bring everything into balance.

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How To Make the Easy Ham and Bean Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Add the Ham and Broth

Stir in the diced cooked ham and let it sear slightly to boost its flavor. Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything to combine.

Step 3: Add Beans and Seasonings

Add the drained white beans, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the pot to a simmer. Cover partially and cook for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. You can mash some of the beans gently with the back of a spoon to thicken the soup slightly.

Step 5: Serve It Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a sprig of thyme or a sprinkle of parmesan if desired, and serve with crusty bread.

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Serving and Storing Easy Ham and Bean Soup

Easy Ham and Bean Soup is best served hot, straight from the pot. Pair it with a slice of warm, buttered cornbread, a crusty roll, or even a side salad for a more rounded meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels just right for family dinners or casual lunches.

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until hot throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but they need to be soaked overnight and fully cooked before adding to the soup. It adds time but offers a more from-scratch feel.

What if I don’t have leftover ham?

No worries! You can use thick-cut deli ham or even a ham steak from the store. Just dice it up and it’ll work beautifully.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Swap the ham for diced potatoes or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Does this soup thicken as it sits?

Yes, it will naturally thicken as the beans break down and the starches release. Add more broth or water when reheating if needed.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Spinach, kale, or even diced zucchini can be added in the last 5-10 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.

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Want More Soup Ideas to Warm You Up?

If you loved this Easy Ham and Bean Soup, don’t miss these other comforting soup and casserole recipes:

• Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup — Perfect for when you’re craving something rich and cheesy.
• Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup — Great for chilly evenings.
• Louisiana Seafood Gumbo — A flavor-packed southern classic.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells — Not a soup, but equally cozy and satisfying.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole — A warm, baked favorite your whole family will devour.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

Let me know how your batch turned out! Did you add any extra veggies or seasonings? Maybe a dash of hot sauce or a parmesan topping? I’d love to hear how you make this soup your own.

Have questions? Drop them in the comments—we’re all about making home cooking easier together.

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