White Bean and Ham Hock Soup: 7 Reasons to Savor It

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of *white bean and ham hock soup* to warm your soul! This comforting dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners and the aroma that fills the air as it simmers away. The hearty combination of tender white beans and smoky ham hock creates a rich, savory flavor that’s simply irresistible. I love how it’s not just a meal, but a hug in a bowl! Plus, it’s the perfect way to use up leftover ham from holiday feasts. Trust me, once you give this recipe a try, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again, especially on those chilly evenings when all you want is something warm and satisfying.

white bean and ham hock soup - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 lb white beans, dried: These are the star of the soup! You’ll want to use dried white beans, like Great Northern or Cannellini, for that creamy texture and hearty flavor.
1 ham hock: Look for a smoked ham hock if you can, as it adds a deep, rich flavor that really elevates the soup. Plus, you’ll get some delicious bits of meat to shred later!
1 onion, chopped: A medium-sized onion, diced up nice and small will add sweetness and depth to the base of your soup.
2 carrots, chopped: These add a lovely touch of sweetness and color. I like to slice them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating!
2 celery stalks, chopped: Celery brings a nice crunch and fresh flavor that balances the richness of the ham hock.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must for that aromatic kick! Don’t be shy—more garlic means more flavor!
6 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake. This will be the liquid gold that brings everything together!
1 bay leaf: Just one bay leaf will impart a subtle, earthy aroma. Remember to remove it before serving!
Salt and pepper to taste: You’ll want to season this soup well, so don’t forget to taste and adjust as it simmers.
2 tablespoons olive oil: This is for sautéing your aromatic veggies and gets the flavor party started!

How to Prepare White Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Making *white bean and ham hock soup* is a delightful process, and I promise it’s easier than it sounds! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to enjoying a warm, hearty bowl in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, soak your white beans overnight in plenty of water. This helps them cook evenly and become tender. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
When you’re ready to cook, drain and rinse those beans. Set them aside for now.
In a large pot, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sauté but not smoking. Add in your chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook these aromatic veggies for about 5–7 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 more minute. You’ll love the smell that fills your kitchen!
Now it’s time to add the rinsed beans to the pot, along with the ham hock, chicken broth, and the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Bring your pot to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. This is where the magic happens! The beans will become tender and soak up all those lovely flavors.
Once the soup is ready, carefully remove the ham hock. Shred any meat from the bone and stir it back into the soup. It adds such a nice heartiness!
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a one-pot wonder! Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious creation.
This soup is pure comfort food, perfect for chilly nights or cozy gatherings with loved ones.
It’s packed with protein and fiber thanks to the white beans and ham hock, making it a nutritious meal that keeps you full.
The flavors only get better as it simmers, filling your home with an irresistible aroma that’s bound to make your mouth water.
Easy to customize! Feel free to add in your favorite herbs or veggies to make it your own.
Great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
It’s gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness.

Tips for Success

Getting the perfect *white bean and ham hock soup* is all about a few simple tricks! Here are my top tips to ensure you achieve that heartwarming bowl of goodness every time.

Don’t rush the soaking: Soaking your white beans overnight is crucial for tenderness. If you forget, you can try a quick soak method by boiling them for about 1 hour, then letting them sit for another hour. But honestly, overnight is best!
Use a good quality ham hock: A smoked ham hock will amp up the flavor significantly. If you can find one from a local butcher, even better! The smokiness is what makes this soup sing.
Keep an eye on the simmer: After you bring it to a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Too high of a heat can break the beans down too much, and you want them to hold their shape and provide a nice texture.
Taste as you go: Don’t skip tasting the soup while it simmers! Adjust the seasoning gradually as flavors develop. Remember, you can always add more salt and pepper, but it’s tough to take it out!
Be patient: Letting the soup simmer for the full 1.5 to 2 hours allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust the process; it’s so worth it!
Store it right: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen even more, making it taste even better the next day!
Don’t forget the bay leaf: It adds a lovely hint of flavor, but remember to take it out before serving! You don’t want anyone biting into a tough leaf—it’s not pleasant!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a pro at making this cozy soup in no time. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to hearty comfort food like *white bean and ham hock soup*, it’s always good to know what you’re nourishing your body with! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of this delicious soup. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and how much seasoning you add.

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 12g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 20g

This soup is not only filling but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for a comforting meal. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings, knowing you’re treating yourself well!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making *white bean and ham hock soup*? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and their answers to help you navigate this delicious recipe.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use two 15-ounce cans of white beans. Just drain and rinse them, and add them to the pot after sautéing the vegetables. Reduce the cooking time to about 20-30 minutes since the beans are already cooked.

What if I can’t find a ham hock?

No problem! You can substitute with diced ham or even smoked turkey leg for a similar flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as those proteins will need less time to cook through.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Just sauté the vegetables on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s a great set-it-and-forget-it method!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day! You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to throw in any veggies you have on hand, like spinach, kale, or even potatoes. Just chop them up and add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking for fresh flavors and extra nutrition.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this *white bean and ham hock soup* is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check your chicken broth label to confirm it’s gluten-free if you’re particularly sensitive.

If you have more questions or need tips, don’t hesitate to ask! I’m here to help you make the best soup possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious *white bean and ham hock soup* is super simple, and trust me, you’ll want to save those leftovers! Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty.

First, once your soup has cooled down a bit, transfer it to an airtight container. This will help keep it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing it up to avoid condensation.

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. Label the containers with the date so you know when to enjoy it by!

When it’s time to reheat, there are a couple of easy methods. For the stovetop, just pour the desired amount into a pot and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until it’s nice and hot. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave! Just place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters!), and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until it’s warmed through.

One tip: If the soup thickens too much while sitting in the fridge or freezer, don’t worry! Just add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to get it back to that perfect consistency. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup again and again!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your *white bean and ham hock soup*, I love pairing it with a few simple yet delightful sides that really complement the flavors. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or artisanal loaf is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth. You can even toast it for extra crunch!
Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor!
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside some roasted seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. Their caramelized sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory soup.
Cheesy Garlic Toast: Who doesn’t love a slice of cheesy garlic toast? It’s simple to make and adds a comforting touch that’s hard to resist!
Pickled Vegetables: A small side of pickled veggies can brighten up the meal and provide a nice tangy bite, balancing the richness of the soup.

These sides not only enhance your meal but also create a comforting, cozy dining experience. Enjoy every flavorful bite with your loved ones!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.