When it comes to cozy, feel-good meals that hit the spot on a cold night, nothing comes close to a steaming bowl of Classic Ham and Bean Soup. This old-fashioned staple is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, filling your home with savory aromas and your belly with warmth. It’s rustic, satisfying, and easy to make — the perfect way to use up leftover ham or simply enjoy a nourishing pot of homemade soup from scratch.
In this article, we’ll dive into a fully optimized, flavor-packed version of this timeless American classic. You’ll find helpful tips, expert-level cooking guidance, and all the know-how you need to create a soup that tastes just like Grandma’s — or even better.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Ham and Bean Soup
There’s something magical about how humble ingredients come together in a slow-simmered soup like this. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Incredible flavor from seasoned broth, hearty beans, and smoky ham
- Simple pantry ingredients with a budget-friendly price tag
- One-pot recipe with easy cleanup
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals
- Customizable for different flavor preferences
Whether served with cornbread muffins, buttered crusty bread, or all by itself, this soup delivers comfort in every spoonful.
Ingredients for Classic Ham and Bean Soup
To create that rich, old-school flavor, you’ll need the following ingredients. This recipe yields 8 generous servings.
Ingredients:
- ½ tablespoon vegetable oil (or canola oil)
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 ribs celery, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2½ teaspoons ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 cans (15.5 oz each) white beans (such as Great Northern or cannellini), rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1¼ to 1½ pounds bone-in ham steak (or leftover ham with bone)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create the ultimate homemade Classic Ham and Bean Soup:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Reduce the heat slightly. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and fresh thyme. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Beans
Pour in the chicken broth. Add the bay leaves, drained white beans, and brown sugar. Stir everything together.
Step 4: Add the Ham
Cut the ham steak into large chunks, including the bone if you have it. Add all the meat and the bone to the pot. This will infuse the broth with deep, smoky flavor.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the soup will thicken slightly and all the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the ham from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Discard the bone, fat, and any tough skin. Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot. Remove and discard the bay leaves.
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed — a bit more thyme or black pepper can enhance the depth. Let it simmer another 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this savory soup with:
- Cornbread muffins or buttered sourdough
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- A splash of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a beautiful presentation.
Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup
- Use bone-in ham: The bone adds unmatched flavor to the broth.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day.
- Freeze leftovers: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Add greens: Stir in baby spinach or kale in the last few minutes for extra nutrition.
- For a creamy version: Mash some of the beans in the pot or add a splash of heavy cream.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
These values are approximate, based on 8 servings:
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 9g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely. Soak 1½ cups of dried white beans overnight, then cook them separately before adding to the soup. This adds time but gives more control over texture.
What if I don’t have ham on hand?
Smoked turkey or bacon makes a great substitute. You can also use a smoked ham hock if you want a richer, deeper broth flavor.
How do I thicken ham and bean soup?
Mash a portion of the beans with a spoon or use an immersion blender to puree a small part of the soup. This creates a thicker, creamier consistency without adding cream.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes — just make sure your broth is certified gluten-free. Everything else in this soup is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
You bet. Just sauté the veggies and aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
Classic Ham and Bean Soup isn’t just a recipe — it’s a tradition. It’s the kind of meal that makes memories, fills your home with comfort, and brings loved ones together. With its hearty blend of veggies, smoky ham, and creamy beans, this soup belongs on every family’s winter menu.
Give this recipe a try and you’ll see why it never goes out of style. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this soup is a surefire winner.
Want more cozy classics? Be sure to check out our other family-favorite soups and stews!
