Ham and Bean Soup That’s Easy, Hearty, and Comforting

Name: Ham and Bean Soup That’s Easy, Hearty, and Comforting
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked ham, diced; 3 cans (15 ounces each) great northern or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 carrots, sliced; 3 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

July 15, 2025

BySophia

Dinner

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Prep time

Cooking time

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Servings

When you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and easy to make, this ham and bean soup is the perfect choice. Packed with tender beans, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables, it’s a classic comfort food that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover ham and can be made with canned beans for convenience, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you’re a fan of ham and 15 bean soup, looking for ham soup recipes, or just need a cozy dinner idea, this recipe delivers.

If you enjoy discovering hearty, easy-to-make recipes like this, don’t forget to share it and subscribe to our blog for more comforting meals delivered straight to your inbox!

Why ham and bean soup is the ultimate leftover ham recipe

After a holiday meal or a big Sunday dinner, you’re often left with plenty of ham — and this ham and bean soup is the perfect way to put it to good use. Not only does it stretch your leftovers into another full meal, but it also highlights the smoky, salty flavor of the ham in a warm and hearty way.

It’s also one of the most beloved leftover ham recipes because it’s budget-friendly, filling, and freezes beautifully.

Ingredients for basic ham and bean soup recipe

2 cups cooked ham, diced
3 cans (15 ounces each) great northern or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1 medium onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-step guide to make ham and bean soup

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Build the broth
Add the diced ham to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Simmer
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.

Step 4: Add the beans
Stir in the drained beans and cook for another 10 minutes, until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Pro tips for easy ham and bean soup using canned beans

Using canned beans makes this recipe quick and convenient, but be sure to drain and rinse them first to remove excess sodium and starch. For a creamier texture, mash a few beans in the pot before serving. If you prefer dried beans, soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Mistakes to avoid when making 15 bean and ham soup

Don’t add all the salt at the beginning — taste after simmering, as the ham can be quite salty on its own. Avoid boiling the soup too vigorously, which can break up the beans. And don’t skip the herbs — thyme and bay leaf add depth to the broth.

Serving and presentation ideas for ham soup recipes

Serve the soup in wide bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and freshly cracked black pepper. Pair it with crusty bread, cornbread muffins, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. A drizzle of olive oil or a few chili flakes can add a nice finishing touch.

Essential kitchen tools for making ham soup at home

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
Ladle
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander (for rinsing beans)

How to store and reheat leftover ham and beans

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.

This soup also freezes beautifully — portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Best pairings for hearty ham soup dinners

Pair this ham and bean soup with a basket of warm dinner rolls, a wedge of cornbread, or garlic toast. For something lighter, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup perfectly.

Recipe swaps and variations for ham and 15 bean soup

Use a 15 bean blend for more variety and texture — just soak dried beans overnight and adjust cooking time accordingly. Add greens like spinach or kale for a pop of color and nutrition. For a smoky twist, stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or add a few dashes of hot sauce before serving.

Frequently asked questions about ham and bean soup

Can I use a ham bone?
Yes — adding a ham bone while simmering adds even more flavor. Just remove it before serving.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely — cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes — just make sure your broth and any seasonings you use are gluten-free.

Can I use different beans?
Yes — navy beans, pinto beans, or even black-eyed peas work well.

Final thoughts on ham and bean soup to make again

This ham and bean soup is a timeless, hearty recipe that brings comfort and warmth to your table. It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and a great way to transform leftover ham into something truly satisfying.

Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner, a holiday leftover solution, or just a cozy meal on a cold day, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

If you loved this recipe, don’t keep it to yourself — share it with friends and family, pin it for later, and subscribe to our blog for even more ham soup recipes, leftover ham recipes, and hearty dinner ideas delivered straight to your inbox. Make tonight’s dinner warm, comforting, and memorable — and let us know how it turned out!

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