Ham and White Bean Soup Recipe That’s Hearty, Cozy, and Full of Flavor

Warm, hearty, and deeply comforting, ham and white bean soup is the kind of classic recipe that brings everyone back to the table. Slow-simmered beans, savory ham, and simple vegetables come together in a nourishing soup that’s perfect for cozy nights, meal prep, and using up leftover ham the delicious way.

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There’s something timeless about a pot of ham and white bean soup gently simmering on the stove. The aroma alone feels like a hug, doesn’t it? Growing up, soups like this meant comfort, patience, and a meal that filled both bellies and hearts. Today, it’s still one of those recipes I turn to when life feels busy and I want something grounding.

This soup isn’t fancy. It’s honest food. It’s built on simple ingredients, cooked slowly, and meant to be shared. Whether you’re making it after the holidays with a leftover ham bone or starting fresh with diced ham, this recipe delivers rich flavor without stress. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and incredibly forgiving, which is a win for busy families.

From my Florida kitchen to yours, this recipe is one I’ve leaned on for years. If you enjoy comforting, all-in-one meals like this, you might also love my easy one-dish ranch chicken recipe, which is another family favorite when I want dinner done with minimal cleanup. Let’s make a pot together and talk through it like we’re standing at the stove, coffee nearby.

Main Ingredients for Ham and White Bean Soup

The beauty of ham and white bean soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role, and none of them are complicated.

• Ham bone or diced ham This is where the deep, savory flavor comes from. A ham bone adds richness, while diced ham makes things quicker.
• Dried white beans Navy beans or great northern beans are ideal. They become tender and creamy as they cook.
• Onion Adds a gentle sweetness and builds the flavor base.
• Carrots These bring a subtle sweetness and color to the soup.
• Celery A classic soup staple that adds balance and depth.
• Garlic Just enough to warm everything up without overpowering the soup.
• Chicken broth Forms the backbone of the soup. Homemade or store-bought both work well.
• Thyme Earthy and comforting, it pairs beautifully with ham and beans.
• Salt and pepper Simple seasoning that lets the ingredients shine.

Additional Ingredients

While the base recipe is wonderful as-is, a few extras can add personality.

• Bay leaf for extra depth during simmering
• Parsley for a fresh finish
• Smoked paprika if you love a gentle smoky note
• Olive oil or butter for sautéing vegetables
• Spinach or kale stirred in at the end for added nutrition
• Potatoes for an even heartier soup

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t stress. This soup is flexible. No carrots? Add more celery. No thyme? A bit of rosemary works nicely.

Expert Tips for Ham and White Bean Soup

• Let’s talk about the little details that make this soup truly great.
• First, soak your beans if you can. An overnight soak helps them cook evenly and improves their texture. Short on time? A quick soak works too.
• Always sauté your vegetables first. This step builds flavor and gives the soup a richer base.
• If you’re using a ham bone, don’t rush the simmer. The longer it cooks, the more flavor it releases. Low and slow is your friend here.
• Taste as you go. Ham varies in saltiness, so wait until the soup is almost done before adding extra salt.
• For a thicker texture, scoop out a cup of beans, mash them, and stir them back in. It’s an easy trick that makes the soup feel extra cozy.
• And here’s my favorite tip. This soup is even better the next day. Make it ahead if you can.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the ham bone or diced ham to the pot, followed by the soaked white beans.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer until the beans are tender.
5. If using a ham bone, remove it, shred the meat, and return it to the soup. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Additional Guide

This soup adapts beautifully to different cooking methods. If you’re a fan of bean-based comfort food, my classic Popeyes-style red beans and rice recipe is another great option that leans into bold, cozy flavors. For a slow cooker version, sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours.

Using an Instant Pot? Pressure cook soaked beans for about 35 minutes with natural release.

For a lighter version, use turkey ham. You could also explore dishes like comforting chicken rice and beans dinner if you’re looking for a protein-packed meal with a similar hearty feel. For a richer version, add a splash of cream at the end.

FAQs About Ham and White Bean Soup

Conclusion

Ham and white bean soup is one of those recipes that proves simple food can be deeply satisfying. It’s warm, filling, and rooted in tradition. For me, it’s also about slowing down and sharing a good meal with my kids around the table.

I hope this soup finds a place in your kitchen, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a quiet Sunday afternoon. And if soup season is your favorite too, don’t miss my bold and cozy chicken tortilla soup recipe, which brings a little spice and fun to the table. If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Food is always better when it’s shared.

Ham and White Bean Soup

This comforting ham and white bean soup is hearty, cozy, and perfect for family dinners. Made with simple ingredients and slow-simmered for rich flavor.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6 bowls

Calories 360 kcal

Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven

Ingredients

  

Soup Base

• 1 ham bone or 2 cups diced ham
• 2 cups dried white beans soaked overnight
• 1 onion diced
• 2 carrots sliced
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp thyme dried
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
  
• Add the ham bone or diced ham along with the soaked white beans.
• Pour in the chicken broth and add thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 to 2 hours until beans are tender.
• Remove the ham bone if used, shred the meat, return it to the soup, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Notes

This soup tastes even better the next day. Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly.

Keyword bean soup, ham and white bean soup, ham soup