Welcome to my cozy kitchen, where today I’m excited to share my beloved easy ham and bean soup! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day—so comforting and hearty. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a rainy afternoon, and I had some leftover ham from a holiday dinner. I tossed in a few simple ingredients, and before I knew it, my house was filled with the most amazing aroma! It instantly brought back memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. I’ve been making this soup for years, and trust me, it’s a straightforward recipe that even beginners can master. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy Sunday. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious easy ham and bean soup! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup diced ham – I love using leftover holiday ham, but any cooked ham works perfectly!
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained – Great for adding that creamy texture!
- 1 cup chopped onion – This adds a sweet, savory base to the soup.
- 1 cup chopped carrots – Fresh carrots bring a nice sweetness and color.
- 1 cup chopped celery – Don’t skip this! Celery gives a lovely crunch and flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth – For that rich, hearty flavor. You can use low-sodium if you prefer!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon thyme – This herb adds a lovely earthiness that complements the ham.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing all those flavors together. Just remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s jump into making this easy ham and bean soup! It’s super simple, I promise. Here’s how I do it:
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want that garlic to get aromatic, but be careful not to let it burn—yikes!
- Next, stir in your diced ham and let it cook for about 2 minutes. This warms it up and melds those flavors together beautifully.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the white beans, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir!
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens—your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Once the time is up, serve your soup hot! I love to pair it with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just 15 minutes of prep time! Perfect for those busy weeknights.
- The flavors are rich and hearty, making it a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
- This soup is packed with nutritious ingredients, giving you a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham, reducing waste and making the most of your ingredients.
- You can easily customize it to suit your taste—whether you want to add more veggies or spice things up!
Tips for Success
To make your easy ham and bean soup truly shine, here are some of my best tips! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can elevate your dish to the next level:
- Quality Ingredients: Always choose good-quality ham. The flavor of your soup really relies on it! If you can, opt for a nice, smoky variety for that extra depth.
- Fresh Veggies: Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture and flavor. Wilted or old veggies can dull the taste of your soup, so make sure they’re in good shape!
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: When you’re sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery, give them enough time to soften and develop their flavors. A little patience here makes a big difference!
- Taste as You Go: This is key! Always sample your soup before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper can elevate the entire dish.
- Simmer Time: Give it that full 30 minutes of simmering. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Your patience will be rewarded, I promise!
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Variations
One of the best things about my easy ham and bean soup is how versatile it is! You can have a little fun and tweak the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some of my favorite variations to inspire you:
- Different Beans: While I love white beans, you can easily swap them for black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor and texture. Each type of bean brings its own unique twist!
- Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick. It adds a whole new layer of flavor!
- Herb Variations: Mix it up by using other herbs like rosemary or oregano. Fresh herbs can really elevate the soup, giving it a fresh and vibrant taste.
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to toss in other veggies you have on hand, like spinach, zucchini, or even potatoes. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly!
- Smoky Flavor: For a deeper smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke or even a smoked sausage instead of ham. It takes the soup to a whole new level!
- Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, simply skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add some smoked paprika for that smoky essence!
Experimenting with these variations can lead to some delicious surprises, so don’t be afraid to get creative! After all, cooking is all about making it your own.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your easy ham and bean soup is a breeze, and I love that it tastes even better the next day! Here’s how to keep those delicious leftovers fresh:
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you can keep track!
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of options:
- Stovetop: This is my favorite method! Pour the desired amount of soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until it’s warmed through, about 5-10 minutes. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
- Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat it in the microwave. Place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot all the way through. Just be careful—it can get hot quickly!
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor your easy ham and bean soup anytime you crave that hearty goodness. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
As with all recipes, the nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider these values as estimates. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each serving of my easy ham and bean soup:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 18g
This soup is not only hearty and delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling satisfied and healthy. Enjoy this comforting dish knowing you’re treating your body right!
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using dried beans, just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. It might take a little longer, but you’ll love the flavor!
What can I substitute for ham?
If you want to skip the ham, you can use smoked turkey or even a plant-based ham alternative for a vegetarian version. It’ll still be delicious and hearty!
How do I thicken the soup?
If you like a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or an immersion blender. Just blend a little of the soup, and it’ll create that creamy texture without needing any flour or cornstarch!
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just sauté the veggies and garlic first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It’s super convenient!
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! My easy ham and bean soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to store it in airtight containers or freezer bags, and it’ll be good for up to 3 months!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this easy ham and bean soup! It’s one of those recipes that just feels like home, and I know you’ll love how simple yet satisfying it is. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it up for family and friends, this soup is bound to impress. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—feel free to share your thoughts, tweaks, or any special memories it brings back for you! Your feedback not only inspires me but also helps our little cooking community grow. So, go ahead and give it a shot, and let’s keep the conversation going. Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Vegetable Beef Soup.
Print
Easy Ham and Bean Soup: 5 Secrets to Heartwarming Flavor
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and hearty ham and bean soup that is perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the diced ham and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, white beans, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: easy ham and bean soup
