10+ Ham and Bean Soup Recipes for Cozy Nights
Ham and bean soup is a comforting dish that many people enjoy. This hearty meal is perfect for using up leftover ham and can warm you up on a chilly day.
You can create various delicious versions of ham and bean soup, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or something with a twist, there are plenty of options to explore. You’ll find that ham and bean soup is not only tasty but also easy to prepare.
It’s a great way to bring family and friends together around the table.
1) Classic White Bean and Ham Soup
Classic white bean and ham soup is a comforting dish perfect for any day. It combines tender white beans with savory ham for a hearty meal. This recipe is easy to make and uses ingredients you may already have at home.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and celery in a pot until they soften. Add chopped ham and let it cook briefly.
Then, mix in the white beans and some broth.
Simmer the soup on low heat until it’s warm and flavors meld together. Season it with your favorite herbs and spices for extra taste. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 4 cups white beans (canned or cooked)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional herbs (like thyme or bay leaf)
Cooking Instructions
- Sauté onions, garlic, and celery in a pot.
- Add chopped ham and cook for a few minutes.
- Stir in white beans.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs.
- Serve hot.
2) Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Delight
Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Delight is a simple and tasty dish. You can make it with just a few ingredients, and it’s perfect for busy days.
Start by gathering your favorite beans and leftover ham. A mix of white and navy beans works well for this recipe.
You’ll also add some chopped onions, carrots, and garlic for flavor. A little bit of broth helps the soup to stay rich and hearty.
Set your slow cooker on low and let it work its magic. In about 6-8 hours, you’ll have a warm and comforting meal ready to serve.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried white beans
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Rinse and soak the beans overnight.
- In the slow cooker, combine the beans, ham, onion, carrots, and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours (160-175°F or 70-80°C).
3) Instant Pot Ham and Bean Wonder
This Instant Pot Ham and Bean Wonder is a fantastic way to turn leftover ham into a hearty meal. You’ll love how quickly it cooks, saving you time in the kitchen.
Start by adding your leftover ham, navy beans, and some fresh vegetables like carrots and celery. These ingredients blend perfectly to create a comforting soup.
The spices will enhance the flavor, making every bowl delicious. Serve it with some warm cornbread for a complete meal that family and friends will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover ham, diced
- 1 cup dry navy beans
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
Cooking Instructions
- Rinse and soak the navy beans overnight if needed.
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté and heat olive oil.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery; cook until soft.
- Add ham, beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
- Seal the pot and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
- Release the pressure and serve warm.
4) Smoky Ham Hock and Navy Bean Brew
This hearty soup brings together navy beans and smoky ham hocks for a warm and filling dish. The slow cooking allows the flavors to mix perfectly, creating a comforting meal.
Start by soaking one pound of dried navy beans overnight. This helps them cook evenly. Drain and rinse the beans before using them in the soup.
In a large pot, combine the soaked beans, two and a half pounds of smoked ham hocks, and plenty of water. You’ll need about 12 cups, or three liters.
Simmer the mixture on low heat for several hours until the beans are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy your delicious ham and bean brew!
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried navy beans
- 2.5 pounds smoked ham hocks
- 12 cups water (3 liters)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Soak the navy beans overnight.
- Drain and rinse beans.
- In a large pot, combine beans, ham hocks, and water.
- Simmer on low for several hours until beans are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper.
5) Vegetable-Packed Ham and Bean Broth
This Vegetable-Packed Ham and Bean Broth is a delicious and hearty meal. It’s a great way to use leftover ham and fill your soup with nutritious vegetables.
Start with a base of broth and add beans for protein. You can use kidney beans, black beans, or white beans. Mix in veggies like carrots, celery, and spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
Season with herbs such as thyme and bay leaves. Let it simmer gently to allow all the flavors to blend together. In about an hour, your broth will be rich and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 can (15 oz) of beans (your choice)
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot, combine ham, beans, carrots, and celery.
- Add chicken broth and spices.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Let simmer for 45 minutes.
- Stir in spinach and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
6) Rustic Ham and White Bean Stew
This rustic ham and white bean stew is a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. The rich flavors of ham combine beautifully with tender white beans. It’s hearty and satisfying.
You can use leftover ham or a smoked ham hock for extra flavor. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add your ham and beans. Simmer gently to let the flavors blend.
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots or celery. Fresh herbs like thyme can enhance the taste as well. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried white beans (or 2 cans, drained)
- 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Soak the beans overnight, or use canned beans.
- Sauté onions and garlic in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ham hock and carrots, cooking for a few minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add soaked beans.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until beans are tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme before serving.
7) Herb and Garlic Ham Bean Medley
To make a delicious Herb and Garlic Ham Bean Medley, you’ll want to start with some cooked ham. The ham adds great flavor to the soup.
Gather your favorite beans, like navy or great northern. You can also mix in vegetables like carrots and celery for more texture.
Herbs such as thyme and rosemary bring out the savory taste. Garlic adds a nice kick and warmth to each bite.
Simmer everything together, allowing the flavors to combine. This hearty soup is perfect for a family meal or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot, combine ham, navy beans, carrots, and celery.
- Add minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
8) Quick and Easy Ham and Bean Bowl
If you’re looking for a fast and delicious meal, the Quick and Easy Ham and Bean Bowl is a perfect choice. You can prepare this dish in about 30 minutes, making it great for busy nights.
This recipe uses basic ingredients you might already have at home. You’ll enjoy the smoky flavor of the ham combined with hearty beans and fresh vegetables. It’s both filling and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium heat.
- Add diced ham, beans, carrots, and onions.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot in bowls and enjoy!
9) Lemon Zest Ham and Bean Infusion
The Lemon Zest Ham and Bean Infusion is a fresh twist on a classic dish. The bright flavor of lemon adds a unique taste that elevates your comforting soup.
To start, you’ll want to gather your ingredients. The zest and juice from a lemon will bring a refreshing element. This pairing works well with the hearty beans and savory ham.
As you cook, add the lemon zest towards the end to maintain its vibrant flavor. A splash of lemon juice just before serving will brighten the entire dish.
This soup is perfect for lunch or dinner, and it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add the diced ham and cook for a few minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the beans and thyme.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in lemon zest and juice just before serving. Add salt and pepper to taste.
10) Carrot and Celery Ham Bean Comfort
This hearty ham and bean soup is simple and delicious. The flavors of carrots and celery bring a lovely sweetness to the dish. It’s perfect for a cozy meal at home.
Start by gathering your ingredients, such as cubed ham, dried beans, carrots, celery, and spices. These add texture and nutrition to the soup.
As it cooks, the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to come sit at the table.
The soup is easy to make in a slow cooker. Just add the ingredients and let them blend together. For tender beans and full flavors, cook it on low for about 6-8 hours.
Ingredients
- 1 ham bone
- 2 cups cubed ham
- 1 cup dried white beans
- 3 large carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups chicken stock
Cooking Instructions
- Place the ham bone and cubed ham in the slow cooker. Add the dried beans.
- Add chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
- Stir in thyme, salt, pepper, and chicken stock.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
- Remove the ham bone and any excess fat. Then, stir before serving.