Ham and Bean Soup Recipe – Classic, Hearty & High-Protein Comfort Food
Soup is always healthy, and best of all, it’s hard to find someone who doesn’t like soup. Today I’ve brought another one of my favorite soup recipes because I made this soup just a few days ago. This Ham and Bean Soup recipe is one of my favorite healthy comfort foods, especially for its deep flavor, high protein content, budget-friendly ingredients, and simple one-pot cooking. Made with tender white beans, smoky ham or a ham bone, and slow-simmered aromatics, this soup is filling, nourishing, and perfect for winter dinners, meal prep, and family meals.
It’s naturally gluten-free, rich in protein and fiber, making it perfect for your busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. This classic Ham and Bean Soup is naturally gluten-free, rich in protein and fiber, and one of the most affordable comfort foods. So I understand you can’t wait to learn the recipe; let’s quickly take a look at the step-by-step method and other secrets.
Related: Chicken Cobbler Recipe
Ham and Bean Soup Recipe (Classic, Hearty & Comforting)
This Ham and Bean Soup is a timeless comfort food made with tender white beans, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables simmered into a rich, flavorful broth. It’s high in protein, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep, cold weather dinners, and family meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups dried navy beans or great northern beans (soaked & drained)
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced (or leftover holiday ham)
- 1 ham bone or ham hock (for deep flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Soak the Beans
Rinse beans thoroughly and soak overnight in water. Drain and rinse before cooking. - Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. - Build the Soup Base
Add soaked beans, diced ham, ham bone, broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, and pepper. Stir well. - Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender. - Finish & Season
Remove ham bone, shred any remaining meat, and return it to the pot. Discard bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and seasoning. - Serve Hot
Serve warm with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad.
Notes
- No soaking shortcut: Use canned beans (4 cups, drained) and reduce cook time to 45 minutes.
- Creamier texture: Mash ½ cup of beans and stir back into the soup.
- Slow Cooker Option: Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours.
- Instant Pot Option: Pressure cook for 35 minutes with natural release.
- Too thick? Add extra broth or water to adjust consistency.
Variations
- Healthy Ham and Bean Soup: Use lean ham and low-sodium broth
- Vegetable-Loaded Version: Add spinach, kale, or tomatoes
- Spicy Ham Bean Soup: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños
- Smoky Flavor Boost: Add extra smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
6Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 289Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 66mgSodium: 2143mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 7gSugar: 4gProtein: 30g
Related: Saland-e Nakhod Recipe
Ingredients Overview – Simple, Budget-Friendly & Flavor-Packed
First of all, let me tell you that there are many different recipes for this ham and bean soup, as the ingredients vary depending on the person and their preferences, but all of them are delicious. Here I am sharing my favorite classic soup recipe with you, because I think it is the easiest and the best.
This ham and bean soup recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients that come together to create a hearty, high-protein comfort food that tastes like it simmered all day. Every ingredient is intentionally chosen for maximum flavor, nutrition, and cost efficiency, making this soup ideal for family dinners, meal prep, freezer meals, and cold-weather comfort.
Dried White Beans (Navy or Great Northern)
The heart of this recipe. White beans add plant-based protein, fiber, and creamy texture. They make this soup incredibly filling while keeping it budget-friendly and nutrient-dense.Ham or Leftover Holiday Ham
Adds rich, savory flavor and boosts the soup into a high-protein meal. Perfect for using leftover ham and reducing food waste.Ham Bone or Ham Hock
The secret to deep, slow-simmered flavor. A ham bone creates a restaurant-quality broth without extra cost.Onion, Carrot & Celery
A classic aromatic base that builds natural sweetness and balance. These vegetables enhance flavor while keeping the soup wholesome and homemade.Garlic & Dried Herbs
Garlic, thyme, and bay leaf elevate the soup with warm, comforting notes, making it taste like a traditional slow-cooked bean soup.Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
Keeps the soup flavorful while allowing you to control salt levels. Ideal for a health-conscious, heart-friendly soup recipe.Related: Italian Timballo Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Ham and Bean Soup (Easy & Foolproof)
Step 1: Soak the Beans for Better Texture & Digestion
Rinse dried navy beans or great northern beans under cold water. Place them in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water. Soak for 8–12 hours or overnight.
Soaking helps beans cook evenly, improves texture, and makes this homemade ham and bean soup easier to digest.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics to Build Deep Flavor
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. This step creates the flavor base for a classic American ham and bean soup that tastes slow-cooked and comforting.
Step 3: Add Beans, Ham & Broth (The Protein Boost)
Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot along with diced ham and a ham bone or ham hock. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and water.
Season with bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This combination creates a high-protein soup that’s rich, smoky, and perfect for winter dinners and family meals.
Step 4: Simmer Low & Slow for Maximum Flavor
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
This slow simmer allows the beans to become tender and absorb the smoky ham flavor, creating a thick, hearty, and satisfying comfort food soup ideal for meal prep and freezer meals.
Step 5: Shred the Ham & Adjust Seasoning
Remove the ham bone, shred any remaining meat, and return it to the soup. Discard the bay leaf.
Taste and adjust salt if needed. Always season at the end — especially when using ham — for a perfectly balanced homemade ham and bean soup.
Step 6: Serve, Store, or Meal Prep
Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread. This easy ham and bean soup recipe tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for weekly meal prep, budget cooking, and family dinners.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
Cooking Methods Comparison: Stovetop vs Slow Cooker vs Instant Pot
🍲 Stovetop Ham and Bean Soup (Classic Method)
The stovetop method is the most traditional and flavor-forward way to make ham and bean soup. Slow simmering allows the beans to soften naturally while the ham bone releases deep, smoky flavor into the broth.
- Best for maximum flavor development
- Easy to adjust seasoning as it cooks
- Ideal for dried beans and ham bones
Best for: Home cooks who enjoy cooking, weekend meals, and authentic comfort food.
⏳ Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup (Set & Forget)
If convenience is your priority, the slow cooker method is unbeatable. This is one of the best slow cooker soup recipes for busy families, allowing flavors to develop gently over hours without supervision.
- Perfect for meal prep & batch cooking
- Excellent for busy weekdays
- Low effort, consistent results
Best for: Working professionals, parents, and anyone who wants a hot meal ready at dinner time.
⚡ Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup (Fastest Option)
Short on time? The Instant Pot transforms this into a quick high-protein soup recipe with the same comforting taste—without hours of simmering. It’s one of the most searched pressure cooker soup recipes for a reason.
- No soaking required (for most beans)
- Ready in under 1 hour
- Great for last-minute dinners
Best for: Busy weeknights, time-crunched households, and modern kitchens.
✔️ Which Method Should You Choose?
If you want deep, traditional flavor, go with the stovetop. If you need convenience and meal prep efficiency, the slow cooker is ideal. If speed matters most, the Instant Pot is your best option.
No matter the method, this easy ham and bean soup recipe remains a budget-friendly, high-protein, comfort food dinner that performs well for family meals, leftovers, and freezer storage.
Suggested: Pernil Recipe
Pro Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup Flavor
If you want a restaurant-quality ham and bean soup that tastes rich, comforting, and deeply flavorful, these expert tips will make all the difference. These are the same techniques home cooks and chefs use to create a high-protein, hearty, and perfectly balanced soup that people keep coming back to.
✔ Use a Ham Bone for Maximum Flavor
For the best ham and bean soup recipe, always use a ham bone or ham hock if possible. The slow-simmered bone releases collagen and natural fats, creating a rich broth that boosts both flavor and mouthfeel. This single step instantly upgrades your soup from good to unforgettable.
✔ Don’t Salt Too Early
Ham is naturally salty, so adding salt too early can overpower your soup. For a perfectly seasoned homemade soup, wait until the beans are fully tender, then adjust the salt at the end. This prevents an overly salty broth and gives you better control.
✔ Slow Simmer = Better Texture
A gentle, low simmer is the secret to creamy beans without breaking them apart. Avoid rapid boiling, which can make beans split and turn the soup grainy. Slow cooking enhances flavor development and creates a smooth, comforting consistency.
✔ Mash Beans for Natural Thickness
Instead of adding flour or cornstarch, mash about half a cup of cooked peas and stir them into the soup. This naturally creates a thick and creamy ham and pea soup that is healthy, economical, and quite delicious.
✔ Layer Flavor with Aromatics
Sautéing onions, carrots, celery, and garlic before adding liquid is essential. This step builds a deep, savory base and enhances the overall taste of your classic comfort food soup. Never skip this for best results.
✔ Let the Soup Rest Before Serving
Like many high-protein soup recipes, ham and bean soup tastes even better after resting. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before serving so the flavors can fully meld. This small pause delivers a noticeably richer and more balanced taste.
Related: Turkey Brine Recipe
🥣 Nutrition & Health Benefits of Ham and Bean Soup
This ham and bean soup recipe is more than just a comforting bowl of food — it’s a nutrient-dense, high-protein, and budget-friendly meal that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Made with white beans, lean ham, vegetables, and slow-simmered broth, this soup delivers long-lasting energy, deep satiety, and real nourishment without feeling heavy or processed.
💪 High in Protein & Fiber
Thanks to beans and ham, this soup is packed with plant-based and animal protein plus dietary fiber. Protein supports muscle health and metabolism, while fiber improves digestion and helps keep you full longer — making this an excellent high protein soup for weight loss and low-cost healthy meals.
❤️ Supports Heart & Gut Health
White beans are rich in soluble fiber, which may help support heart health, cholesterol balance, and gut function. When paired with vegetables and low-sodium broth, this homemade soup becomes a smart option for those looking for heart-healthy comfort food recipes.
🧠 Balanced Energy & Satiety
This soup provides a balanced combination of complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, helping maintain steady energy levels without blood sugar spikes. It’s ideal for family dinners, post-work meals, and meal prep lunches.
🥦 Rich in Essential Nutrients
Ham and bean soup naturally contains iron, magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, and zinc, supporting immune function and overall wellness. Using fresh vegetables and slow cooking helps retain flavor and nutrients.
Suggested: Ugali Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Bean Soup
Yes, ham and bean soup can be a healthy, balanced meal when made at home. It is naturally high in protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates, which helps keep you full longer. Using lean ham, low-sodium broth, and beans makes this a nutrient-dense comfort food suitable for weight management and meal prep.
Absolutely. You can use canned white beans, navy beans, or great northern beans to save time. Rinse and drain them well to reduce sodium. When using canned beans, reduce the cooking time to about 35–45 minutes, making this an easy and quick weeknight soup recipe.
No, a ham bone is optional. While a ham bone or ham hock adds deep, smoky flavor, you can still make a delicious soup using diced cooked ham. If you want extra flavor without a bone, add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder.
Homemade ham and bean soup lasts up to 4–5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve the next day, making it perfect for meal prep, family dinners, and healthy leftovers.
Yes, ham and bean soup is freezer-friendly. Let it cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. This makes it a smart choice for budget meals, freezer meals, and busy week planning.
Beans naturally thicken soup as they cook and release starch. If your soup becomes too thick, simply add more water or low-sodium chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. This is common with slow cooker and leftover reheated soups.
Yes, traditional ham and bean soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and avoid processed ham with fillers. Always check labels if you are cooking for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Yes. This recipe works well in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Slow cooking enhances flavor for hands-off meals, while pressure cooking reduces total time to under an hour—ideal for busy families and quick high-protein dinners.
The best beans for ham and bean soup are navy beans, great northern beans, or cannellini beans. These beans hold their shape, absorb flavor well, and create a creamy texture without needing dairy.
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