Easy Ham and Bean Soup

This Easy Ham and Bean Soup recipe combines hearty vegetables, tender ham, and white beans in a flavorful, comforting broth. Made with simple ingredients like carrots, celery, garlic, and smoked paprika, this soup is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal. Whether you’re using leftover ham or fresh ingredients, this soup can be simmered to create a rich, satisfying dish. Ideal for cold evenings, this ham and bean soup is customizable in flavor and thickness, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Quick to cook and perfect for meal prep, it’s a great choice for busy weeknights or preparing ahead for the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
• 3 sticks celery, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups cooked ham, chopped (or more to taste)
• 2 (14-ounce) cans white beans, drained
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly browned.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the Italian seasoning and smoked paprika to enhance the flavor.
3. Add Liquids and Ham: Pour in the chicken broth, water, cooked ham, and white beans. Stir everything together. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low (if it’s bubbling too much), and cover the pot slightly ajar. Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You can simmer for longer if you prefer a more intense flavor.
5. Season and Adjust Consistency: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Since ham can be salty, add salt only after tasting. For a thicker texture, use a potato masher to mash some of the beans directly in the pot or pulse an immersion blender a few times.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This ham and bean soup comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• Comforting: With hearty vegetables, beans, and smoky ham, this soup is both filling and comforting.
• Customizable: You can adjust the thickness and flavor by mashing the beans or adding more spices.

Tips

• Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover ham from a previous meal. The more ham you add, the richer the flavor!
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some beans directly in the pot. If you want a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender.
• Adjust Seasoning: Be sure to taste the soup before adding extra salt since ham is naturally salty.

Variations and Substitutions

• Beans: If you don’t have white beans, substitute with other beans like navy beans, great northern beans, or even kidney beans.
• Vegetables: Add more vegetables like potatoes or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.
• Herbs: If you prefer, substitute Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic touch.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

What can I serve this soup with?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh green salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of fresh bread for dipping.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra richness.
• Pair with a light green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal.