Oh, let me tell you about my go-to Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup! It’s one of those recipes that just warms your soul without breaking the bank. You know those days when you want something hearty and comforting, but your wallet’s feeling a little light? This soup is your answer! It’s packed with protein from the ham and beans, making it filling and nutritious, and the best part? It’s super easy to whip up. I remember the first time I made it; I had some leftover ham from a holiday dinner, and I was determined not to waste it. I threw everything together in one pot, and within an hour, my kitchen smelled like a cozy restaurant! Every time I make it, I’m reminded of how simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy those leftovers for days!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that rich, hearty flavor.

1 cup dried beans – You can use any variety you like! Navy beans or great northern beans work particularly well.
1 cup diced ham – Leftover ham is perfect for this recipe; just make sure it’s chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
1 onion, chopped – A medium onion will do, adding a lovely depth to the soup.
2 carrots, diced – Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; they should be cut into small cubes for even cooking.
2 celery stalks, diced – Celery brings a nice crunch and aromatic flavor; chop it up finely.
4 cups chicken broth – Use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake; it’s the base of your soup!
1 teaspoon thyme – Dried thyme works perfectly for its earthy aroma and flavor.
1 bay leaf – Just one bay leaf enhances the soup with its subtle, herbal notes.
Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season your soup! Adjust these to your liking for that perfect finish.

How to Prepare Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup

Now let’s dive into the heart of the matter—making this delicious Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup! The steps are simple, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a bowl of comfort in no time. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Soak the beans: Start by soaking your dried beans in a large bowl of water overnight. This softens them and reduces cooking time. If you’re pressed for time, you can do a quick soak by boiling them for 2 minutes, then letting them sit for an hour.
Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain the beans and give them a good rinse under cold water. This step helps remove any impurities.
Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Add the main ingredients: Toss in the diced ham and the rinsed beans. Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, then stir in the thyme and bay leaf. Give everything a good mix to combine those flavors.
Bring it to a boil: Turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This helps to kickstart the cooking process.
Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the beans tender.
Season to taste: After an hour, taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy; this is where you can adjust the flavors to your liking!

And there you have it! Your hearty Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup is ready to be served. I love to top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, this Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup not only fills your belly but also keeps your nutrition in check! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, which is about 1 cup of soup. Keep in mind, these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use.

Calories: 250
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sugar: 2g

This soup packs a punch of protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Plus, it’s low in fat, so you can indulge without the guilt. Enjoy every hearty spoonful!

Tips for Success

To make your Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite tips! First off, don’t skimp on soaking the beans. It’s essential for tenderness, and trust me, your soup will thank you for it! If you can, use leftover ham; the more flavorful, the better! Any type of smoked or honey ham adds a delicious depth to the soup.

Another key is to sauté the vegetables until they’re really soft; this step brings out their natural sweetness and flavor. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning! Taste your soup before serving, because a little extra salt and pepper can make a world of difference. Also, if you love a bit of heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce while it simmers.

Lastly, let the soup sit for a bit after cooking; it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!

Variations

The beauty of my Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup is how adaptable it is! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations you might want to try:

Different Beans: While I love sticking to classic navy or great northern beans, you can mix it up with black beans, pinto beans, or even lentils for a twist! Just remember, cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on those beans!
Extra Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to throw in other veggies. Spinach or kale adds a lovely pop of color and nutrition. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even diced potatoes can bulk up the soup and make it even heartier.
Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some spices! A dash of smoked paprika or cumin can give the soup a warm depth. For a little kick, consider tossing in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Herb Variations: Swap out the thyme for Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs added at the end of cooking can brighten the soup beautifully.
Vegetarian Version: Want to make it meat-free? Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can enhance the flavor with smoky seasonings or add a splash of liquid smoke if you miss that savory taste.

These variations keep things exciting and ensure your soup is always a delightful surprise. Experiment and find your favorite combo!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up a delicious pot of Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to create the perfect meal! This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but a few simple sides can elevate your dining experience even more.

First up, I love pairing this soup with crusty bread or buttery cornbread. Dipping a warm slice into the soup is pure bliss! If you’re feeling adventurous, try making some garlic bread for a little extra flavor kick.

If you want to lighten things up a bit, a fresh green salad works wonders. Toss together some mixed greens with a zesty vinaigrette to contrast the rich flavors of the soup. You could even add some crunchy toppings like nuts or seeds for texture!

Another great option is to serve it with pickles or a tangy coleslaw. The crunch and acidity from these sides balance the hearty soup perfectly and add a delightful freshness to the meal.

And let’s not forget about a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top of your soup before serving! It adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor that makes every bowl feel special.

So, gather your favorite sides, and let’s dig into this comforting meal together!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve enjoyed your hearty Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup, you’ll probably have some delicious leftovers. Don’t worry; storing and reheating this soup is super easy! Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty.

First, let the soup cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps it from getting watery. Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container; I love using glass containers because they’re easy to clean and don’t retain odors.

You can keep the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to label it with the date, so you know when to enjoy it by! If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, you can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for a quicker option. To reheat, pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick after freezing, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

And voila! You’ve got a warm, comforting bowl of soup ready to go. Enjoy every delicious spoonful again!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, canned beans work just fine. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the soup. You’ll skip the soaking step, but be sure to adjust your cooking time since they’re already cooked.

Q2. How can I make this Budget Friendly Ham and Bean Soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. You can add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that savory flavor that often comes from the ham.

Q3. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer, and you can reheat it straight from frozen or thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Q4. What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
The great thing about this soup is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with any vegetables you have on hand. Spinach, kale, or even diced potatoes can add some extra nutrition and heartiness to your dish.

Q5. How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Seasoning is where you can really make this soup your own! Start with the recommended amounts of salt and pepper, but taste as you go. If you love a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick. Don’t hesitate to adjust the herbs too; fresh herbs can really elevate the flavors!