The warmth of a hearty soup simmering on the stove—few things evoke a sense of home and comfort quite like it. Inspired by how my Gluten-Free Ham and Cheese Galette transforms humble ingredients into something tasty and memorable, this Ham and Bean Soup takes simple staples like navy beans or great northern beans and leftover ham and elevates them into a nourishing and flavorful meal. Like the forgiving nature of a galette's free-form shape, this soup embraces adaptability. If you’re searching for the best ham and bean soup recipe or wondering how to make it from scratch, you’ll love this approach.
Reinventing Leftovers—Now More Than Ever
Today, with a challenging economy and climate change, it's essential to use up food and minimize waste. Whether it's for your budget or to reduce landfill waste, this soup is an excellent way to transform leftover ham into a delicious and versatile dish—perfect as the center for the main course or a great appetizer! Using leftover ham in soup is not only practical, it’s also delicious—especially in this hearty ham and bean soup with ham bone or ham hock for extra flavor.
A Childhood Lesson in Resourcefulness
My parents raised six kids on a slim income. I learned from my mom the value of stretching a dollar and never wasting food. She could make a meal out of practically nothing (including a ham bone). Heck she even made her own chicken broth. This hearty soup is a tribute to that resourcefulness, reminding me that simple ingredients, combined with creativity, can be incredibly satisfying. This old-fashioned ham and bean soup is a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and freezer-friendly, perfect for busy families.
Bringing People Together
More than just nourishment, this savory comfort food has the power to connect us. And like the irresistibly delicious aroma of this simmering soup, sharing a bowl is an invitation to gather, share stories, and find warmth in each other's company. In crafting this easy soup recipe, I'm reminded that the most satisfying meals are often the ones we create from scratch, adapting to the ingredients we have on hand and infusing them with a bit of creativity. Whether you’re this classic ham and bean soup for a crowd or enjoying a bowl on a chilly night, this classic comfort food brings everyone together.
Ingredients
Navy or Great Northern Beans
These are the heart of the soup, providing a creamy texture and hearty flavor. They're also packed with fiber and protein.
Water (for soaking the beans)
Soaking softens the beans, reducing cooking time and making them easier to digest. (If you are using dried beans, follow the instructions on the package.)
Oil (Olive or Avocado)
Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding flavor and a touch of richness.
Yellow Onion
Provides a base of savory flavor, adding depth and aroma to the soup.
Garlic
Another essential flavor builder, garlic adds a pungent and aromatic note.
Celery
Contributes a subtle sweetness and savory element.
Carrot
Adds sweetness, color, and nutrients to the soup.
Chicken or Vegetable Stock/Broth
Forms the liquid base of the soup, adding depth of flavor. Chicken stock is richer, while vegetable stock keeps it vegetarian.
Chopped Ham
This is where the "ham" comes in! Use leftover cooked ham for the best flavor and texture.
Ham Bone or Hock (Optional)
Adds a smoky, savory depth to the soup. Remove it after cooking.
Dried Herbs (thyme, rosemary, or herbs de Provence)
These herbs add aromatic complexity to the soup, complementing the other flavors.
Dried Bay Leaves
Impart a subtle, earthy flavor. Remember to remove them before serving.
Salt and Pepper
Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and adds a touch of spice and depth.
Equipment
Stockpot or Dutch Oven
A large, heavy pot is essential for simmering the soup. A Dutch oven provides even heat distribution.
Strainer
Used to rinse and drain the soaked beans.
Bowl
For soaking the beans.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
For accurate measuring of ingredients.
Knife and Cutting Board
For chopping vegetables and ham.
Stove
To cook the soup.
Stirring Spoon
For stirring the soup during cooking.
Soup Ladle
To serve the soup.
Substitutions
Navy Beans or Great Northern Beans
Can be substituted with cannellini beans, cranberry beans, or even lentils (though lentils will cook much faster).
Chicken or Vegetable Stock
Can be substituted with water, but the soup will have less flavor. Consider adding bouillon cubes or paste for extra depth.
Ham
Can be substituted with bacon (cook it first and add the cooked bacon and some of the rendered fat to the soup) or smoked sausage. For a vegetarian option, omit the ham and add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Dried Herb
Use fresh herbs instead of dried, but add them later in the cooking process (about 30 minutes before the end) to preserve their flavor.
Yellow Onion
Substitute with white onion or leeks.
Why will you love this soup?
Delicious Flavor
This soup boasts hearty and delicious. The combination of ham, onions, celery and carrots is savory, warm and comforting. The rustic soup makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.
Gluten-Free Option
For individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, finding delicious gluten-free recipes can be a challenge. This soup is naturally gluten-free.
Versatility
The recipe is versatile and adaptable…it’s a main, it’s a side, it’s an appetizer. This flexibility allows for endless variations and experimentation.
Ease of Preparation
While it looks impressive, making this galette is surprisingly straightforward. The step-by-step instructions provided in the recipe make it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks.
Perfect for Gatherings
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or a cozy family meal, this soup can be a delightful centerpiece and companion dish.
Reheats Well
Leftovers of this soup can be reheated and enjoyed the next day (and the next), It is so convenient for busy schedules. Just remember to freeze it beyond three days.
Adaptable for Dietary Needs
The recipe can be modified to suit various dietary preferences. You can make it dairy-free, vegan, or incorporate other dietary restrictions by choosing suitable substitutions.
Budget Friendly
This soup is traditionally made with leftovers and inexpensive pantry staples.
1tsp Dried Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary or Herbs de Provence)
2 Bay Leaves
Salt (To taste)
Black Pepper (To taste)
Instructions
1
Gather Ingredients
Make sure you have all the ingredients on hand.
2
Prep ingredients
Rinse, soak and drain beans according to the package. Note this could take as little time as an hour or over night - plan accordingly.
Clean and chop carrots and celery into ¼” diced pieces.
Peel garlic and onions and finely chop.
Chop ham into ½” pieces.
3
Sauté Vegetables
Place 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven or other large pot. Add prepared carrots, celery, onion, and garlic; cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened and onions become translucent.
4
Simmer Soup
Add stock, soaked beans, ham, ham hock (if using), and all herbs to the pot.
Bring to a very low boil, then reduce the heat and simmer on medium-low heat for 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours.
Begin testing tenderness of the beans at 1 1/2 hours. If the beans are still hard, continue to cook until softened.
If you used a ham hock, remove the bone and cut off any remaining meat. Place the meat back in the pot with the soup.
Season to taste with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
5
Serve and Enjoy
Ladle into bowls and enjoy with a side of crusty bread or salad.
Keywords:
Leftovers, Ham, Beans, Navy Beans, Great Northern Beans, Comfort Soup, Comfort Food, Ham and Bean Soup, Leftover Ham, Ham Bone, Chicken broth, Hearty soup, Slow cooker soup, Easy soup recipe
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Stephen Visintainer
Home Cook & Blogger
I'm a self-trained, home cook focused on reinventing recipes…making them gluten-free (if they aren’t already.) I started this journey several years ago after my wife started experiencing difficulties eating foods that contain gluten.
