Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Table of Contents

• Key Takeaways
• Why You’ll Love This Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
• Easy Recipes That Bring Comfort
• How Betty Discovered This Cozy Classic
• Simple Tips to Make the Most of Leftover Ham
• Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Bowl
• Warm Memories Around the Dinner Table
• Notes & Tips

Key Takeaways

This hearty ham and bean soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly nights or anytime you’re craving something warm, filling, and flavorful. It’s made with everyday pantry staples and is an ideal way to use up leftover ham. This easy recipe is both satisfying and simple to prepare—perfect for beginners and busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

There’s something magical about the aroma of soup simmering on the stovetop, especially when it’s an easy recipe like this one. The combination of tender white beans, smoky ham, and fresh herbs creates a bowl of goodness that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. On Betty Cooks, we believe in sharing dishes that bring families together, and this ham and bean soup is exactly that kind of meal.

Easy Recipes That Bring Comfort

At Betty Cooks, easy recipes are at the heart of everything we share. This ham and bean soup fits right into that philosophy. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a no-fuss option after a long day, this comforting classic comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

How Betty Discovered This Cozy Classic

Betty, the voice behind Betty Cooks, first made this soup after a holiday dinner left her with an abundance of leftover ham. Not wanting it to go to waste, she tossed it into a pot with white beans, broth, and aromatics—and the result was a bowl of pure comfort. It quickly became one of her favorite dinner recipes and a staple on chilly evenings.

Simple Tips to Make the Most of Leftover Ham

One of the best parts of this easy soup recipe is how well it works with leftover ham. Don’t be afraid to get creative—add a ham bone for extra flavor, or toss in extra veggies for variety. If you love recipes for dinner that are versatile and flexible, this one’s for you. It even works wonderfully with turkey ham or smoked sausage.

Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Bowl

Pair your bowl of soup with butter swim biscuits or a slice of crusty bread to soak up every drop. For a touch of richness, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan or sharp cheddar on top. At Betty Cooks, we often serve it alongside cheesey potatoes for the ultimate comfort food combo.

Warm Memories Around the Dinner Table

This recipe isn’t just about what’s in the pot—it’s about what happens around the table. Sharing a meal like this brings warmth and connection. Whether it’s part of your weeknight routine or a tradition after the holidays, this easy recipe brings people together.

Notes & Tips

Want to boost the flavor even more? Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne for some zing. This soup stores beautifully in the fridge and tastes even better the next day. Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months. It’s the kind of easy recipe you’ll make again and again.

Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

A hearty and flavorful ham and bean soup made with simple ingredients—perfect for easy weeknight dinners!

Prep Time10 minutes mins

Cook Time30 minutes mins

Total Time40 minutes mins

Course: Soups & Stews

Cuisine: American

Keywords: butter swim biscuits easy recipes, cheesey potatoes easy recipe, chicken stirfry easy recipe, dinner recipes, easy recipes, easy recipes ninja creami, recipes for dinner

Servings: 6 servings

Author: Betty

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 3 cups cooked ham, chopped
• 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth and water. Add ham, white beans, and bay leaf.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

You can use leftover holiday ham or smoked ham for extra flavor. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness if desired.