Go Back

Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

This comfort-filled ham and bean soup is the perfect use for leftover ham, combining hearty ingredients for a filling family meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 ham bone or cups ham bone or 2 cups diced leftover ham Use whatever leftover ham you have.
  • 2 cans canned beans (cannellini or navy) Drained and rinsed.
  • 2 cups chopped carrots Add more or less based on preference.
  • 2 cups chopped celery Optional.
  • 1 cup chopped onion Optional.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Optional for extra flavor.
  • 4 cups broth or water Adjust as needed for consistency.
  • to taste salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or thyme Optional, but recommended for flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped carrots, celery, and onion in a splash of oil until softened.
  2. Add the ham bone or diced ham to the pot, along with the garlic, and stir well.
Cooking
  1. Add the canned beans and broth or water to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
  2. Bring the soup to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
  3. Mash some of the beans if you prefer a thicker soup, and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika or thyme to taste.

Notes

This soup tastes even better if made a day in advance. It can be frozen and reheated, just add a little broth if it thickens too much.