Ah, the comforting warmth of a bowl of soup on a chilly day—there’s nothing quite like it! Growing up, my family would often gather around the dinner table with a big pot of this Easy Ham and Bean Soup bubbling away on the stove. It has a delightful combination of flavors and textures that just feels like home to me.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip it up; it’s all about tossing in some hearty ingredients, letting everything simmer, and then enjoying the fruits of your labor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to transform leftover ham into a delicious meal. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you will want to keep it in your regular dinner rotation!
What’s in Easy Ham and Bean Soup?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this soup so hearty and delicious:
Olive Oil: A staple in any kitchen, olive oil provides a flavorful base for sautéing our veggies. I recommend going for extra virgin for the best taste.
Onion: Diced onions give a sweet and savory kick, laying the foundation for amazing flavor. I usually go for a medium yellow onion, but any kind will work!
Carrots: Diced carrots add a touch of sweetness and texture to the soup. I like to use fresh carrots, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen ones can work too.
Celery: This adds a delightful crunch and contributes to the classic mirepoix base of the soup.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the soup with warmth and depth. Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic fragrance!
Cooked Ham: This is the star of the show! You can use leftover holiday ham or grab some diced ham from the store.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The broth ties everything together and gives it a lovely, hearty flavor. Homemade is great, but store-bought works perfectly for convenience.
White Beans: These legumes provide a rich creaminess and are packed with protein. Great Northern or Cannellini beans are my go-to choices.
Dried Thyme: Giving a herby note, thyme complements the dish wonderfully.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a delightful smoky flavor that just elevates the entire soup.
Black Pepper: A sprinkle of this adds warmth and a hint of spice.
Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
Butternut Squash: This is an optional ingredient but adds a lovely sweetness and vibrant orange color. If you have it on hand, toss it in!
Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely, it’s a beautiful garnish that adds a pop of freshness right before serving.
Is Easy Ham and Bean Soup Good for You?
Oh, you bet it is! This soup is not only tasty but also packed with nutritional benefits:
Ham: A great source of protein, ham helps keep you full and satisfied. Just be mindful of the sodium content—opt for lower-sodium options when you can!
White Beans: They’re loaded with fiber, which is great for digestion and keeping you fuller for longer.
Vegetables: The combination of onions, carrots, celery, and optional butternut squash gives you a solid dose of vitamins and minerals.
However, while this soup is nutritious, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on salt content, especially if you’re using pre-packaged broth or ham. Balance is key!
Ingredients
This recipe serves about 6 people, so it’s perfect for a family gathering or meal prep for the week.
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked ham, diced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 (15-ounce) can white beans, drained and rinsed (like Great Northern or Cannellini)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup butternut squash, diced (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Easy Ham and Bean Soup?
Alright, let’s get cooking!
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften up beautifully.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until you can smell that delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen.
3. Stir in the diced ham and let it warm through for about 3 minutes.
4. Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth and bring the whole thing to a glorious boil.
5. Add the white beans, thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. If you’re including the butternut squash, add it now. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. You want the squash to be tender and all those flavors to meld together perfectly.
6. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you find the soup is too thick for your liking, just add a splash more broth.
7. Serve hot in your favorite bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy this bowl of comfort!
Soup-er Tips for Your Ham and Bean Creation!
– **Make it Ahead:** This soup tastes even better the next day! Feel free to make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunches.
– **Variations:** Don’t be afraid to play with the veggies! Spinach or kale can be great additions for a pop of color and nutrients.
– **Filling:** If you want it to be more filling, serve it with crusty bread or cornbread on the side. You’ll be in heaven!
I hope this Easy Ham and Bean Soup warms your heart and your home just like it does for me. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Happy cooking!
