Description
Craving something warm, hearty, and ultra-satisfying? This Easy Ham and Bean Soup is your answer! Perfect for using up leftover ham, this one-pot wonder is packed with smoky meat, creamy white beans, and tender vegetables simmered in a rich, savory broth. Whether you're after a quick dinner, a cozy lunch, or some meal-prep comfort food, this recipe checks every box. Great for busy weeknights, chilly weather, or just a nourishing bowl of goodness—this easy recipe delivers flavor, simplicity, and soul-soothing satisfaction. Think of it as one of your go-to dinner ideas and healthy comfort food favorites.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked ham, diced
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken broth (or ham stock)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in the diced ham, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 2-3 minutes to release flavors.
4. Pour in the broth and add the beans. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Remove bay leaf and thyme stems before serving.
7. For a creamier texture, mash some beans or blend a small portion of the soup and return to the pot.
8. Serve hot with bread or your favorite side. Enjoy!
Notes
Always taste before adding salt—ham and broth are naturally salty.
This soup gets better after resting—make it ahead if you can!
For thicker soup, mash some beans or blend part of it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: easy recipe, dinner ideas, leftover ham, bean soup, one-pot meal, healthy comfort food