As the temperatures drop and winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. And what better way to start than with a classic combination: ham and beans! The rich flavor of slow-cooked ham paired with the creamy texture of tender beans is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend meal, these 20 delicious ham and bean soup recipes are sure to hit the spot.
From traditional takes on classic comfort food to creative twists and international inspirations, we’ve got something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering soup recipes. So grab a spoon and get cozy – it’s time to dive into the wonderful world of ham and beans!
Classic Ham and Navy Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of American comfort food, made with tender navy beans, smoky ham, and aromatic spices. Serve it up with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 pounds diced ham, cooked
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the soaked navy beans, ham, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Slow Cooker Ham and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner. Smoked ham and creamy white beans combine in a rich and comforting broth that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham, diced
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, and cannellini beans to a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Ham and Black Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the savory flavors of ham and black beans with a kick of heat from jalapeños, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 jalapeños peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream or shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add ham, black beans, jalapeños, and red bell pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes; stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with sour cream or shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoky Ham and Lentil Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of smoky ham with the earthy goodness of lentils, perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced smoky ham (such as prosciutto or serrano ham)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the lentils, ham, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Ham and Cannellini Bean Soup
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of ham and cannellini beans with a hint of cream, perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless ham steak
– 2 cups cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ham steak, onion, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the cannellini beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender, blending until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ham and Split Pea Soup with Beans
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the rich flavor of ham with the sweetness of split peas and the creaminess of beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham
– 2 cups split peas
– 1 can (15 ounces) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the ham, split peas, navy beans, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable-Packed Ham and Bean Soup
This comforting soup is packed with a medley of vegetables, smoky ham, and creamy beans, perfect for a chilly evening or a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 ham hock or 2 slices of cooked ham
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the bell pepper and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the soaked navy beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, water, parsley, and ham hock or cooked ham. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ham and Bean Soup with Kale
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of smoky ham, creamy beans, and nutritious kale, all simmered together in a rich broth. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s sure to warm your belly and your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound diced ham hocks or smoked ham
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, ham hocks or smoked ham, navy beans, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
3. Stir in the chopped kale and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the kale is wilted.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 slices cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add navy beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, ham, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Ham and Bean Soup with Sweet Potatoes
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of ham, beans, and sweet potatoes, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. With its rich broth and tender vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound smoked ham, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine soaked beans, sweet potatoes, ham, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ham and Bean Soup with Cornbread Crumbles
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting soup, featuring tender ham, creamy beans, and crunchy cornbread crumbles. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup cornbread crumbs
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ham hocks, onion, garlic, beans, chicken broth, water, and thyme.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the ham is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Just before serving, stir in cornbread crumbs.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Ham and Bean Soup with Rosemary
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of ham, creamy beans, and the earthy notes of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham hock or diced cooked ham
– 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the ham, beans, chicken broth, rosemary, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ham and Bean Soup with Carrots and Celery
This classic soup recipe combines the savory flavors of ham, beans, carrots, and celery for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound boneless ham steak, diced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked navy beans, diced ham, chopped carrots, and chopped celery.
2. Add chicken broth, onion, garlic, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ham and Bean Soup with Barley
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of smoky ham, tender beans, and nutty barley. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked ham, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup pearled barley
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the ham, onion, and garlic until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the soaked and drained navy beans, chicken broth, water, and barley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Ham and Bean Soup with Tomatoes
Ham and Bean Soup with Tomatoes Recipe
This hearty soup combines the flavors of smoky ham, tender beans, and sweet tomatoes for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound diced ham (such as prosciutto or cooked bacon)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the soaked and drained navy beans, diced ham, onions, garlic, and thyme.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Ham and Bean Soup with Garlic and Thyme
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day, packed with tender ham, creamy beans, and the savory flavors of garlic and thyme. Serve it with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).
2. Add the soaked beans, ham, thyme, broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ham and Bean Soup with Bacon
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of smoky bacon, tender ham, and creamy beans. A simple and satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 ham hock or 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the soaked and drained navy beans, ham hock or diced cooked ham, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Ham and Bean Soup with Parmesan Crust
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of ham, beans, and vegetables with a crispy Parmesan crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced ham, kidney beans, chicken broth, water, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Pour the soup into individual serving bowls or ramekins.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top of each bowl.
6. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Bean Soup with Sausage
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of smoky ham, savory sausage, and creamy beans, making it a satisfying meal for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound smoked ham hocks
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ham hocks, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
3. Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours total (including soaking time)
Ham and Bean Soup with Cilantro and Lime
This hearty soup is a twist on the classic comfort food, adding a burst of freshness from cilantro and lime. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound diced ham
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced ham, soaked beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 delicious ham and bean soup recipes! From classic combinations like navy beans and ham, to creative twists like spicy black beans and smoky lentils, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of creamy cannellini beans or a hearty serving of split peas and carrots, these recipes are sure to hit the spot. So why not try something new today? With ingredients like ham, beans, and vegetables, these soups are perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch on-the-go.
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