Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

How do you use that leftover ham from your holiday feast? Make this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe to transform your ham leftovers into an entirely new dinner. This easy, healthy meal is perfect for a cold winter day, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Beans
• Vegetables
• Liquids and Seasonings
• Meat
• Other Ingredients
• How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare the Beans
• Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Finish the Soup
• How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• With a Side Salad
• Accompanied by Cheese
• How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
• How do I customize my Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
• What type of ham is best for this recipe?
• Can I make this soup vegetarian?
• How long does this soup take to cook?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of ham, beans, and spices creates a hearty and satisfying dish that warms you up.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use any type of ham you have on hand, making it adaptable to whatever leftovers you have.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Freezable Meal: Make a big batch and freeze portions for a quick meal later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large dutch oven pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large dutch oven pot: Ideal for even cooking and simmering large quantities of soup without spills.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick chopping of vegetables, making prep time efficient.

Ingredients

Beans

• 1 Lb Dried Navy Beans

Vegetables

• 1 White Onion (chopped)
• 4 Carrots (chopped)
• 2 Celery Stalks (sliced)
• 5 Garlic Cloves (finely chopped)
• 2 Cups Shredded Green Cabbage

Liquids and Seasonings

• 3 Tablespoons Oil
• 64 ounces Chicken Stock
• 14.5 ounce Can Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs
• Fresh Cracked Pepper

Meat

• 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham

Other Ingredients

• Salt – to taste (if needed)

How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. Rinse the dried beans under cold water.
2. Cover them with several inches of water and soak overnight.
3. Rinse the beans again before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat oil in a large dutch oven pot over high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 4-5 minutes while stirring.
3. Mix in garlic and sauté for an additional 30-60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the soaked beans to the pot along with chicken stock, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to simmer.
3. Cover the pot slightly ajar and cook for about 90 minutes. Check consistency; if beans are still firm, cook for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Finish the Soup

1. Remove the lid and stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage.
2. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until heated through.
3. Adjust salt to taste if necessary (the saltiness will depend on your ham).
4. Discard bay leaf before serving.

Enjoy this delightful Ham and Bean Soup Recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Serving your delicious Ham and Bean Soup is just as important as making it. Here are some great ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Fresh Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly. Tear off pieces to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds a rich flavor that complements the soup’s ingredients beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Green Onions – Thinly sliced green onions add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch to each bowl.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the soup.
• Garden Salad – A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes provides a light contrast to the hearty soup.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Top each bowl with shredded cheddar for extra creaminess and flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the soup for a nutty finish.

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How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Ham and Bean Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak Beans Overnight – This reduces cooking time and ensures beans are tender.
• Use Quality Stock – A good chicken stock enhances the flavor of your soup significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste before serving; you may need more salt or herbs depending on your ham’s saltiness.
• Cook Low and Slow – Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Add Vegetables Early – For richer flavors, add veggies like carrots and celery at the start of cooking.
• Store Properly – Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Ham and Bean Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread complements the savory soup perfectly. Bake it fresh for maximum enjoyment.
2. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and flavors that pair well.
4. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad contrasts nicely with hot soup; serve it chilled for an interesting texture mix.
5. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf absorbs broth well, making each bite satisfying.
6. Biscuits – Soft, flaky biscuits are ideal for soaking up every drop of delicious soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ham and Bean Soup Recipe can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking the beans overnight can result in a longer cooking time and less tenderness. Always soak your dried beans to ensure they cook evenly.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Layer your ingredients properly and stir occasionally for the best results.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your soup bland. Always check the flavor before serving and adjust as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ham: Using a low-quality or overly salty ham can ruin the dish. Choose a flavorful ham that enhances the overall taste of your soup.
• Not Discarding the Bay Leaf: Leaving the bay leaf in before serving can lead to an unpleasant texture. Remember to remove it before enjoying your soup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Ham and bean soup will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover the soup in an oven-safe dish, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Ham and Bean Soup Recipe.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned beans. Just rinse them well and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

How do I customize my Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or kale for added nutrition. Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for unique flavors!

What type of ham is best for this recipe?

A bone-in ham or leftover holiday ham works wonderfully as they add depth of flavor. Avoid processed ham if possible.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock along with any favorite beans.

How long does this soup take to cook?

The total time is about 8 hours including soaking beans overnight, plus 2 hours of cooking time on stovetop.

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only a great way to use leftover ham but also provides warmth and comfort on chilly days. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various vegetables and spices. Give it a try—your family will love it!