Name: Savory Ham and White Bean Soup: A Comforting Bowl to Savor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Adds richness and is essential for sautéing the veggies.); 1 cup Onion, chopped (Provides a flavorful base that elevates the entire dish.); 1 cup Celery, chopped (Contributes great crunch and freshness.); 1.5 cups Carrots, chopped (Bring natural sweetness and texture to the soup.); 1.5 cups Medium Potato, chopped (Offers heartiness; Yukon gold or russets work beautifully.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Enhances flavors; adjust according to your ham’s saltiness.); 10 grinds Black Pepper (Just the right amount of mild spice to kick things up.); 3 cups Ham, chopped (The star of the dish; leftover or fresh, it adds amazing flavor.); 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Introduces a delightful aroma and depth.); 1 teaspoon Thyme (Adds an earthy herbal note that complements the soup.); 3 cans White Beans, drained and rinsed (Great Northern or cannellini beans are perfect.); 4 cups Chicken Stock (Provides the wholesome liquid base for your soup.); Fresh Parsley (A touch of brightness for garnishing.)

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With the chill of winter nipping at my heels, I found myself in a delightful culinary rescue—whipping up a pot of Hearty Ham and White Bean Soup. This simple yet satisfying dish goes from fridge to table in just 35 minutes, leveraging those holiday leftovers to create something special. The combination of savory ham and creamy white beans, simmered to perfection, offers both warmth and comfort on those frosty evenings. Not only is this soup gluten-free and a great way to utilize leftovers, but it’s also a fiber-packed option that brings the whole family together. Ready to turn your kitchen into a cozy haven? Let’s dive into this nourishing recipe and discover the joy of homemade goodness!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Quick Preparation: This Ham and White Bean Soup is perfect for busy weeknights, ready in just 35 minutes.
Savory Comfort: The delightful combination of ham and creamy beans evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals that everyone craves.
Budget-Friendly: Using leftover holiday ham means you can savor great flavor without breaking the bank.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fiber, this satisfying dish fits seamlessly into a health-conscious lifestyle.
Versatile Base: Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite veggies, just like a comforting Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms.
Family Favorite: With its hearty texture and rich flavors, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a hit at the dinner table!

Ham and White Bean Soup Ingredients

• To make your warm, comforting Ham and White Bean Soup even more delightful, gather these simple ingredients!

For the Soup

Olive Oil – Adds richness and is essential for sautéing the veggies.
Onion (1 cup, chopped) – Provides a flavorful base that elevates the entire dish.
Celery (1 cup, chopped) – Contributes great crunch and freshness.
Carrots (1½ cups, chopped) – Bring natural sweetness and texture to the soup.
Medium Potato (1½ cups, chopped) – Offers heartiness; Yukon gold or russets work beautifully.
Kosher Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances flavors; adjust according to your ham’s saltiness.
Black Pepper (10 grinds) – Just the right amount of mild spice to kick things up.
Ham (3 cups, chopped) – The star of the dish; leftover or fresh, it adds amazing flavor.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Introduces a delightful aroma and depth.
Thyme (1 tsp, fresh or dried) – Adds an earthy herbal note that complements the soup.
White Beans (3 cans, drained and rinsed) – The main source of protein and creaminess; great Northern or cannellini beans are perfect.
Chicken Stock (4 cups) – Provides the wholesome liquid base for your soup.
Fresh Parsley – A touch of brightness for garnishing; it makes it feel special!

Feel free to gather these essential ingredients and prepare to enjoy a bowl of comforting warmth with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ham and White Bean Soup

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by heating a large soup pot over medium heat. Add about 2 tablespoons of olive oil, letting it shimmer as the heat builds. In just a couple of minutes, you’ll see the oil bubbling gently, ready to create a flavorful base for your Ham and White Bean Soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in 1 cup of chopped onion, 1 cup of chopped celery, 1½ cups of chopped carrots, and 1½ cups of chopped medium potato. Season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 10 grinds of black pepper. Sauté these vibrant veggies for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and the onions turn translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Ham
Now, stir in 3 cups of chopped ham, letting it mingle with the veggies. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, allowing the ham to heat through and its savory aroma to permeate the kitchen. Keep stirring gently, ensuring everything blends beautifully in your Ham and White Bean Soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Thyme
With the ham well mixed, it’s time to add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Stir these in and cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic releases a delightful fragrance. This step adds a depth of flavor that will elevate your soup to the next level.

Step 5: Add the White Beans
Next, fold in 3 cans of drained and rinsed white beans. Stir well to coat these creamy beans in the mixture. Their soft texture will start to soften as they warm up. This step is essential for achieving that hearty consistency in your Ham and White Bean Soup.

Step 6: Pour in the Chicken Stock
Now it’s time to pour in 4 cups of chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once you see bubbles forming, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld, and the potatoes should be tender by the end.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once your Ham and White Bean Soup has finished cooking, remove it from the heat. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra touch, you might also consider sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving it alongside some crusty bread.

Make Ahead Options

These Ham and White Bean Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on weeknights! You can chop all your vegetables (onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, you can cook the soup and let it cool before refrigerating for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken stock if it appears too thick. Maintaining the perfect quality ensures your comforting soup will be just as delicious as when you made it fresh!

What to Serve with Hearty Ham and White Bean Soup

Imagine a cozy gathering where the heartiness of your soup is complemented by the perfect sides, creating a delightful meal experience.

Crusty Bread: The ideal partner for your soup, its crunchy exterior and soft interior soak up every last drop of flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Shaved or grated, this savory finish elevates the soup’s rich taste and adds a satisfying saltiness.
Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing option that balances the soup’s warmth and adds a vibrant, crunchy texture to the meal.

Pair your soup with a green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette—the acidity brings brightness that complements the hearty soup. It’s a perfect balance, ensuring that every bite is delicious.

Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized, they add earthy flavors and enhance the comforting nature of your soup.
Garlic Bread: Rich and buttery, this flavorful side enhances the experience while providing that satisfying crunch.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate between spoonfuls of the creamy soup and bursts of savory ham flavor.
Homemade Biscuits: Soft and fluffy, these are perfect for dipping, soaking up the broth, and adding a touch of warmth to your meal.
Apple Pie: For a sweet finish, this classic dessert pairs beautifully with the savory depth of the soup, rounding out your comforting meal.

Each of these accompaniments not only complements the hearty ham and white bean soup but also transforms your dining experience into a cozy gathering filled with warmth and flavor.

Expert Tips for Ham and White Bean Soup

Even Sizing: Ensure all vegetables are chopped uniformly for even cooking, preventing some from becoming mushy while others remain firm.
Creamy Texture: Blend a portion of the white beans with chicken stock before adding them to the soup for a richer, creamier Ham and White Bean Soup.
Crockpot Advantage: If you’re busy, throw all ingredients into a crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours; the flavors will meld beautifully!
Flavor Boost: For a deeper flavor, simmer a ham bone or hock in the soup; just remember to remove it before serving and shred any meat back into the pot.
Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste as you go, adjusting salt based on the saltiness of your ham to avoid over-seasoning.

How to Store and Freeze Ham and White Bean Soup

Fridge: Store any leftover Ham and White Bean Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Freezer: If you plan to enjoy the soup later, freeze it in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing to maintain its texture.

Thawing: To defrost, place the soup in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, run the container under warm water or thaw it in the microwave before reheating.

Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock if the soup has thickened. Warm it on low heat while stirring until steaming hot. Enjoy the comforting flavors of your Ham and White Bean Soup!

Ham and White Bean Soup Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to this soup, making it even more delightful!

Different Beans:
Swap out the white beans for chickpeas or black beans to change the flavor and texture completely. This slight twist can open up a whole new experience, adding both protein and fiber!
Vegetable Boost:
Add fresh spinach or kale for vibrant color and extra nutrition. These greens will wilt beautifully in the hot soup, creating a nutritious and flavorful enhancement.
Lean Protein Option:
Substitute turkey for ham if you’re looking for a lighter option. This swap keeps the soup deliciously satisfying while reducing the sodium content.
Smoky Flavor:
Introduce smoked paprika to the mix to add a warm, smoky flavor that will elevate the comforting essence of the soup, reminiscent of those chilly days when you long for something hearty.
Crockpot Delight:
Turn this recipe into a slow-cooked masterpiece by using a crockpot. Simply combine all ingredients, set on low for 6-8 hours, and let the flavors meld beautifully, turning your home into a cozy haven.
Creamy Texture:
Blend a portion of the soup until smooth and return it to the pot for a creamy, luscious soup that adds richness and depth to each bowl.
Heat it Up:
For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Adjust it according to your taste, and you’ll create a warming bowl that offers comfort with a bit of heat.
Perfect Pairings:
Serve this soup alongside a comforting Ham Cheese Croissant or a warm bowl of Miso Soup Comforting for a delightful meal combination that ensures everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Ham and White Bean Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Choose a ham that is flavorful and well-cooked, preferably one left over from a holiday feast. If you don’t have leftovers, a boneless ham will work just as well. Look for a ham that has a good balance of fat for added richness in the soup.

What’s the best way to store leftover Ham and White Bean Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing it, which helps maintain its quality. Just give it a good stir and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before enjoying again!

Can I freeze Ham and White Bean Soup, and if so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this comforting soup! Pour your cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently, stir in a splash of chicken stock if it’s thicker than you’d like, and warm until steaming.

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Very! If you notice that your soup has thickened, don’t worry! Just add a small splash of chicken stock or water while stirring gently over low heat. This will help to bring it back to that warm, comforting consistency that makes Ham and White Bean Soup so delightful.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This Ham and White Bean Soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities! However, always check the labels of any canned ingredients, like the chicken stock or beans, to ensure they are gluten-free. Additionally, you can easily adjust it for low-sodium or lower-fat diets by selecting the right types of ham and stock. Always consult with your family and friends about any allergies before serving.