Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and Bean Soup

Hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting Ham and Bean Soup! This classic recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Made with tender navy beans, savory ham, and a flavorful broth, it’s the ultimate cozy meal simmered to perfection.

You can easily make it with cubed ham or a meaty ham bone for even more flavor. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a satisfying and hearty dinner everyone will love.

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Ingredients

• 11 cups of water, divided

• 1 pound dried navy beans (16 oz. bag or about 2 ½ cups), rinsed

• 2 cups cubed ham

• 1 ham bone

• ½ cup chopped onion

• ½ cup diced carrot

• Salt and pepper to taste

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Directions

1. Prep the beans: Add beans and 4 cups of water to a large pot. Bring to a rapid boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour. Drain and return beans to the pot.

2. Cook the soup: Add 7 cups of water, cubed ham, ham bone, onion, carrot, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer for about 1½ hours, or until beans are tender. Add more water if needed during cooking.

3. Finish and serve: Remove ham bone, trim any meat, and stir it back into the soup. For a thicker texture, mash ¼ cup of beans and return them to the pot. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.

Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or cornbread!

Makes 8 (1½-cup) servings.

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Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup

• For extra flavor, add a bay leaf or a pinch of thyme while simmering.

• Leftovers taste even better the next day — the flavors deepen overnight!

• Freeze in individual portions for quick, easy lunches.

Here are some other soup recipes you will love!

Ham and Bean Soup