Ham and White Bean Soup

Name: Ham and White Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound dried white beans (such as navy or great northern); 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups diced ham; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Busy Day | Fast Kitchen

I love making Ham and White Bean Soup on chilly evenings. It’s become a family favorite, filled with hearty ingredients that make it both comforting and satisfying. The combination of tender beans, flavorful ham, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that not only warms you up but also fills the house with an amazing aroma. With just a few simple steps, this recipe allows me to enjoy a delicious homemade soup without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a wonderful way to use leftover ham in a way that’s both inventive and delicious!

Created by

The Sarahsfoodlab Team

Last updated on 2026-02-14T17:22:19.424Z

When I first made this Ham and White Bean Soup, I was skeptical about how the flavors would meld together. To my delight, the combination of the smokiness from the ham and the creaminess of the beans was simply divine. I learned that letting the soup simmer allows the flavors to deepen, so don’t rush this step!

I also discovered that using dried beans instead of canned provides a richer texture and taste. Pre-soaking them overnight makes all the difference, resulting in a tender bean that pulls all the flavors wonderfully. The leftovers taste even better the next day!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a filling meal
Rich flavors from ham and herbs that are comforting
Easy to make with ingredients you might already have

The Importance of Soaking Beans

Soaking the dried white beans overnight is a crucial step in achieving the desired texture for the soup. Not only does soaking reduce the cooking time significantly, bringing the beans to tenderness in about 45 minutes, but it also helps to make them easier to digest. If you forget to soak the beans, you can use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2-3 minutes and letting them sit for an hour before draining and proceeding with the recipe.

Additionally, the soaking process allows the beans to absorb water, which promotes even cooking and prevents them from becoming mushy. If you plan to make this soup ahead of time, soaked beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the pot.

Customizing Your Soup

While this Ham and White Bean Soup recipe is delicious as is, consider it a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. You can add in leafy greens like spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color. If you prefer a bit of heat, incorporating a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick without overpowering the dish's comforting flavors.

For those watching their sodium intake, using homemade or low-sodium chicken broth is perfect. You can also replace the ham with turkey or tofu for a lighter option, making the soup suitable for different dietary preferences. Adjusting the herbs and spices allows you to personalize the flavor to your liking, so feel free to experiment with different combinations!

Ingredients

1 pound dried white beans (such as navy or great northern)
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups diced ham
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Beans

Rinse and soak the dried white beans in water overnight. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the drained beans, diced ham, chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Season and Serve

Remove bay leaves, season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, try using a smoked ham hock instead of diced ham. Additionally, you can incorporate some chopped kale or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritional boost.

Storage and Freezing Tips

This Ham and White Bean Soup stores incredibly well, making it a great dish for meal prep. Once the soup has cooled, you can transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is also an option; just ensure it is cooled down completely before placing it in freezer-safe bags or containers. This soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

When reheating, it's best to thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of broth or water as it tends to thicken when stored. If reheating from frozen, do so gently on low heat, stirring frequently until heated through to ensure even warmth and to preserve texture.

Serving Suggestions

This ham and white bean soup is wonderfully hearty and can be the star of your dinner table. Consider serving it with crusty bread or cornbread on the side to soak up the delicious broth. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the soup's richness, enhancing your meal experience.

If you're hosting guests, I like to set up a toppings bar where everyone can add their own garnishes. Some great choices include diced green onions, grated cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a dollop of sour cream. These toppings can elevate the soup, giving each bowl a personalized touch while adding another layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, if using canned beans, reduce the cooking time to about 20 minutes after adding the beans since they're already cooked.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

Substitute the ham with smoked paprika for flavor and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

A slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad pairs wonderfully with this soup.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.