Instant Pot 15 Bean Soup

This hearty Instant Pot 15 Bean Soup is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, it combines tender beans, vegetables, and savory ham in a rich, comforting broth.

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Ingredients

Soup:

• 1 pound 15- or 16-bean soup mix (discard any seasoning packet)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1½ cups diced yellow onion
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 cups water
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 ham shank, ham hock, or meaty ham bone
• Salt, to taste (add only if needed)

Optional Garnishes:

• Grated Parmesan or Monterey Jack cheese
• Oyster crackers or crushed saltine crackers

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans

Rinse the beans thoroughly in a colander under cold water. Pick through them to remove any debris or damaged beans.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Press the SAUTÉ button on the Instant Pot. Add vegetable oil and wait until the display reads “Hot.” Add onion, carrot, and celery, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté for 1 more minute. Press CANCEL.

3. Add the Remaining Ingredients

Add the rinsed beans, broth, water, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne (if using), and bay leaves. Stir to combine. Tuck the ham shank or ham bone into the mixture.

4. Pressure Cook

Lock the lid and ensure the vent is sealed. Press MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK, select HIGH, and set the timer for 40 minutes.

5. Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure. Carefully unlock and remove the lid.

6. Remove Ham and Adjust Texture

Transfer the ham shank or bone to a cutting board, shred the meat with a fork, and stir it back into the soup. Discard the bone.

If a creamier texture is desired, pulse the soup 3–4 times with an immersion blender—don’t overdo it; leave plenty of whole beans.

7. Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. Serve hot, garnished with cheese or crackers if desired. Soup will thicken when refrigerated; add water when reheating to reach your preferred consistency.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein- and Fiber-Rich: Hearty beans and ham make this soup filling and nutritious.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Let the Instant Pot do all the work while you prep other things.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Reheats beautifully and freezes well for later.
• Customizable Flavor: Easy to adjust seasonings to your preference.

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Tips

• Rinse and Sort Beans: Ensures no debris or broken beans get into your soup.
• Avoid Salt Early: The ham, tomato sauce, and broth add enough salt during cooking. Add extra only at the end if needed.
• Creamy Texture Option: Pulse a few times with an immersion blender for a slightly thicker soup while keeping plenty of whole beans.
• Natural Pressure Release: Helps beans stay intact and prevents splattering.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
• Spice Adjustments: Increase chili powder or cayenne for heat, or add smoked paprika for depth.
• Different Meats: Use leftover cooked ham, smoked sausage, or bacon for variety.
• Bean Mix Alternatives: Any dried bean medley works—just adjust cooking times slightly for very small beans.

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FAQs

Do I need to soak the beans?
No, the Instant Pot cooks dried beans quickly without soaking.

Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time and liquid—about 15 minutes at high pressure is sufficient.

How long does the soup keep?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for 2–3 months.

Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely! Add extra cayenne, chili powder, or a diced jalapeño during sautéing.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve over steamed rice or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish with grated cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or crackers for added texture.
• Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
• Pair with a simple salad for a lighter side dish.