white bean and ham soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
white bean and ham soup recipe
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The Best white bean and ham soup recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic white bean and ham soup recipe with you. It’s a staple in our household, and for good reason – it’s hearty, comforting, and packed with nutrients.

I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. My kids love it because it’s easy to customize with their favorite toppings, and my husband appreciates the fact that it’s a one-pot wonder that requires minimal cleanup.

As for me, I adore the way the creamy beans and smoky ham come together in perfect harmony. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make – just throw all the ingredients into a big pot and let the magic happen.

The best part? This soup is a perfect fit for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a crowd-pleaser for a family gathering.

And let’s not forget about the health benefits – white beans are chock-full of fiber, protein, and complex carbs, making this soup a guilt-free indulgence. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed!

It’s a true classic for a reason.

White Bean and Ham Soup

White Bean and Ham Soup

4.6 from 1411 votes

A hearty and comforting soup made with tender white beans, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a cold day, this soup is easy to make and full of flavor.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time65 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced ham
1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers.
2Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
4Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
5Add the diced ham and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the ham is lightly browned.
6Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
7Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
8Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
9Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
10Remove the bay leaf.
11Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
12Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Ladle

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before serving. Add a splash of cream or milk for extra richness.

Watch Video Of How White Bean and Ham Soup Works

This white bean and ham soup recipe is truly a timeless classic that never fails to impress my family and friends alike. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or a hearty dish to serve at your next family gathering, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

And don’t even get me started on the health benefits – with its rich source of fiber, protein, and complex carbs from those lovely cannellini beans! So go ahead and give this recipe a try today – I promise you won’t regret it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About White Bean and Ham Soup

1. What type of beans should I use in this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use cannellini beans or Great Northern beans. They have a mild flavor and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the smoky ham.

2. Can I substitute the ham with something else?

While traditional white bean soup recipes call for ham hocks or diced pork, you can definitely get away with using other meats like bacon or prosciutto if you prefer.

3. How do I make sure my soup doesn’t become too thick?

To avoid overcooking your soup and ending up with an unpleasantly thick consistency, be sure to add enough liquid to cover your ingredients completely.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

This soup is actually one of those rare recipes that tastes even better after being refrigerated overnight!

5. Is it safe to eat leftover white bean soup?

As long as your soup was stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or below, you can safely enjoy leftovers for up to 3 days.

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