Comfort food doesn't get much better than a warm bowl of Easy Ham & Bean Soup, especially on chilly days. This hearty ham soup recipe combines tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables for a nutritious and filling meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish is not only budget-friendly but also protein-packed, making it a hit with the whole family. Additionally, the soup's rich and satisfying flavor profile is sure to warm your soul and bring smiles around the dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 cup dried white beans (such as Navy or Great Northern)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 bay leaf
6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
1 cup water (if needed)
2 cups diced cooked ham (preferably from a ham bone)
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Crusty bread for dipping (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the dried white beans under cold water, then soak them in water overnight.
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then add them to the pot along with the diced ham, dried thyme, garlic powder, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and accompanied by crusty bread.
