This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is a great way to use up leftover holiday ham. It’s so tasty, you might end up buying extra ham just to make this satisfying meal!
author’s note
The Best Way to Use Leftover Ham!
It is satisfying to a holiday ham, but ever since I created this recipe a few years ago, I’m even more excited for the leftovers than the main event. Haha, truly. This soup is unbelievably good and creamy.
I crisp the ham in the pot first, then soften the veggies right in those tasty drippings. The beans make it thick and hearty.
I tested a few early batches without blending and liked them, but the day I blended a couple cups and stirred it back in, it was game over. The texture turned silky and reliable without using tons of cream. Now I always finish it that way and serve big bowls with buttered bread for dunking.
Ham And Bean Soup Recipe Ingredients
| Ingredient | Swap or Tip |
|---|---|
| Ham | Leftover holiday ham is reliable. No leftovers? Use thick-cut smoked ham from the deli. A ham bone or hock adds deeper flavor. |
| White beans | Use cannellini or navy. Canned keeps it fast. If using dry beans, cook until tender before adding anything acidic. |
| Onion + carrots | Dice evenly so they cook at the same rate. Add celery if you like. |
| Flour | For gluten-free, skip flour and blend a bigger portion of the soup for body. |
| Chicken broth | Low-sodium lets you control salt. Vegetable broth works too. |
| Spinach | mix in at the end so it stays bright. Kale works; cook a bit longer. |
| Heavy cream + whole milk | All cream for extra rich. All milk for lighter. Half-and-half is a nice middle ground. |
How To Make Ham And Bean Soup
- Crisp the ham: Fry in oil until crispy, keep nearby.
- Sauté veggies: Cook onion, carrot, garlic, and seasonings in the same skillet.
- Add broth and beans: mix in broth and beans; simmer.
- Blend soup: Blend part of the soup; mix back in.
- Finish soup: Add remaining ingredients, and simmer until spinach wilts.
- Serve: Remove bay leaves, adjust taste, and serve.
Quick Tip
Still have leftover holiday ham? You’ve got to try this Ham and Cheese Sliders, Ham Pot Pie, or Ham and Potato Soup.
Serve This Ham And Bean Soup Recipe With
- Crusty Bread: Great for dipping. Cheesy or garlic bread are also always a hit.
- Green Salad: Adds a fresh touch.
- Grilled Cheese: A comforting match.
- Roasted Veggies: Healthy and flavorful.
- Cornbread: Sweet and buttery contrast.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Cool, then store this ham and bean soup recipe in an airtight container for up to four days.
- Freeze: Freeze in sealed containers for up to three months.
- Reheat: On the stove or in the microwave. Use a low burner to avoid curdling; stirring often.
More Hearty Soup Recipes:
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Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Dinner
Tuscan Sausage and Potato Soup
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Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup
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Italian Sausage Orzo Soup
