One Pot Ham and Bean Soup: A Cozy Meal for Chilly Nights

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s chilly outside. That’s why I absolutely adore my *One Pot Ham and Bean Soup*. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! The way the flavors meld together is simply magical, and the best part? You can whip it up all in one pot! This dish not only fills your belly but also warms your heart, making it perfect for those brisk winter evenings when all you want is something hearty and satisfying. I remember making this soup for the first time after a long day, and it instantly lifted my spirits. The rich, smoky flavor of the ham combined with the creamy beans and fresh veggies just makes everything feel right in the world. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add this delightful soup to your regular rotation!

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s chilly outside. That’s why I absolutely adore my One Pot Ham and Bean Soup. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! The way the flavors meld together is simply magical, and the best part? You can whip it up all in one pot! This dish not only fills your belly but also warms your heart, making it perfect for those brisk winter evenings when all you want is something hearty and satisfying. I remember making this soup for the first time after a long day, and it instantly lifted my spirits. The rich, smoky flavor of the ham combined with the creamy beans and fresh veggies just makes everything feel right in the world. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add this delightful soup to your regular rotation!

Ingredients List

To create my delicious One Pot Ham and Bean Soup, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is essential for sautéing the veggies and adding a nice depth of flavor.
• 1 onion, chopped: A medium-sized onion is perfect for that savory base. Chop it up nice and small so it caramelizes beautifully!
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic touch. I love using a garlic press to get it nice and fine.
• 2 carrots, diced: Fresh carrots add a touch of sweetness and color. Dice them into small pieces for even cooking.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Celery brings a lovely crunch and flavor balance. Make sure they’re chopped to match the carrot size!
• 1 pound cooked ham, diced: Use leftover ham or deli ham; it’s the star of the show! Dice it into bite-sized pieces for that hearty bite.
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed: Any white beans like cannellini or great northern work well here, adding creaminess and protein.
• 6 cups chicken broth: This is the soul of the soup! Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
• 1 teaspoon thyme: Dried thyme adds an earthy note. If you have fresh, feel free to use a tablespoon instead!
• 1 bay leaf: Just one leaf brings a lovely depth of flavor. Don’t forget to remove it before serving!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always adjust the seasoning to your preference. A little sprinkle of both at the end goes a long way!

Gathering these ingredients will have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time! Trust me, you’re going to love every bite of this comforting soup.

How to Prepare One Pot Ham and Bean Soup

Making my One Pot Ham and Bean Soup is as easy as pie! You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can transform those simple ingredients into a soul-warming dish. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions, so you’ll feel confident whipping it up in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil: Start by heating that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to shimmer but not smoking. This will take just a minute, so keep an eye on it!
2. Add the veggies: Once the oil is ready, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook these beauties for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and the onion becomes translucent. This is where the magic begins!
3. In goes the ham: Next, add the diced ham to the pot. Cook it for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. You’ll start to smell that delicious smokiness wafting through your kitchen!
4. Stir in the rest: Now, it’s time to stir in the drained white beans, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to combine all those lovely flavors.
5. Bring it to a boil: Turn up the heat and bring your soup to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to deepen and develop, so don’t rush this part!
6. Season and serve: After 30 minutes, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember to remove that bay leaf before serving! Ladle the soup into bowls, and get ready to enjoy a heartwarming meal.

And there you have it! A delicious One Pot Ham and Bean Soup that’s perfect for any chilly day. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything is made in one pot. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with my One Pot Ham and Bean Soup. Here are just a few that keep me coming back to this recipe:

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious, hearty meal on the table in no time!
• Comforting Flavors: The rich, smoky taste of ham combined with the creamy white beans and fresh veggies creates a warm, satisfying flavor that feels like a hug.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only filling but also a nutritious option for any day of the week.
• Easy Cleanup: Since it’s a one-pot wonder, you’ll spend less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal!
• Versatile: Customize the recipe to your liking by adding different veggies or beans, making it a great way to use up what’s in your fridge.

Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Tips for Success with One Pot Ham and Bean Soup

To truly nail my One Pot Ham and Bean Soup, keep these pro tips in mind:

• Use leftover ham: If you have leftover holiday ham, this is the perfect recipe to give it new life! It adds great flavor and makes the soup even heartier.
• Don’t skip the sauté: Sautéing the veggies until soft brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor. It’s a step you won’t want to rush!
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and don’t hesitate to tweak the salt and pepper to suit your palate. Sometimes a little extra seasoning makes all the difference!
• Let it rest: If you can, let the soup sit for a bit after cooking. The flavors will meld even more, making it taste even better!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making a fabulous ham and bean soup that everyone will rave about!

Variations of One Pot Ham and Bean Soup

One of the best things about my One Pot Ham and Bean Soup is how easy it is to mix things up! Here are a few fun variations to try:

• Different Beans: Swap out the white beans for black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor and texture. Each type brings its own unique twist!
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for a pop of color and added nutrition. You could also add corn for sweetness or bell peppers for crunch.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a nice heat!
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro instead of thyme. This can brighten up the flavor profile beautifully.

Feel free to get creative—your soup will be delicious no matter how you choose to customize it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of my One Pot Ham and Bean Soup is super simple! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up a bit. Enjoy those comforting flavors all over again!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying my One Pot Ham and Bean Soup, knowing the nutritional content can be super helpful! Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 18g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. This soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any meal!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my One Pot Ham and Bean Soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my answers:

• Can I use dried beans instead of canned? Absolutely! Just soak your dried beans overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. This adds a lovely texture!
• What kind of ham should I use? Any cooked ham will work great! Leftover holiday ham is perfect, but deli ham is also a fantastic option.
• Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes! Just sauté the veggies in a pan first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours.
• How can I thicken the soup? If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply mash some of the beans with a fork or add a cornstarch slurry while it simmers.
• Is this soup freezer-friendly? Definitely! Just store it in airtight containers, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

I hope these answers help you whip up the perfect bowl of comfort!

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