There’s something magical about soup, isn’t there? The way it warms you up from the inside out, especially on a chilly evening, is pure comfort. My go-to when the temperatures drop is this *Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe*. It’s not just simple to make; it’s hearty and fills the house with that inviting aroma that makes everyone gather around the table. I remember the first time I made it on a cold winter night. I had some leftover ham from a holiday dinner, and I thought, why not? I tossed everything into the pot, and before I knew it, we were enjoying big bowls of this delicious soup, laughing and sharing stories as the snow fell outside. Trust me, this is one of those recipes that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making my beloved *Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe*. Each component plays a crucial role in building that rich, comforting flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked ham, diced: Leftover ham works wonderfully here, adding depth and that smoky flavor we all love.
1 cup dried beans, rinsed: You can use any beans you prefer, but I usually go for navy or great northern beans for their creaminess.
1 onion, chopped: A medium onion gives a nice aroma and sweetness when sautéed.
2 carrots, sliced: They add a pop of color and subtle sweetness to balance the savory notes.
2 celery stalks, chopped: Celery brings that classic soup flavor, making everything taste more vibrant.
4 cups chicken broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine if you’re in a pinch.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A convenient way to add a robust flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
1 teaspoon thyme: This herb complements the ham beautifully and adds a warm aroma.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all those flavors together; don’t be shy with the seasoning!

Once you’ve got all these ingredients ready, you’re just a step away from a hearty, soul-soothing soup! Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process! Making this *Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe* is straightforward, and I promise it’ll be worth every minute spent stirring. Let’s break it down step by step:

Combine the Ingredients: In a large pot, add your diced ham, rinsed beans, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. This combination of ingredients creates a hearty base for your soup that will make your kitchen smell incredible!
Add the Broth and Spices: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, followed by the garlic powder and thyme. Stir everything together so that all the flavors start to mingle. You’ll want to see those beautiful colors come together!
Bring to a Boil: Turn the heat up and bring the mixture to a boil. This step is important because it gets the soup bubbling and begins the cooking process.
Simmer: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Keep it covered and let it work its magic for about 1 hour. This is when the beans will soften, and the flavors will deepen. You might want to sneak a taste halfway through; just be careful, it’ll be hot!
Season to Perfection: Before serving, taste your soup and add salt and pepper to suit your preference. This step is crucial because it brings all those delicious flavors together and makes your soup sing!

And there you have it! A simple, comforting bowl of ham and bean soup that’s perfect for any chilly day. Now, let’s move on to why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!

How to Prepare Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Combine the Ingredients: In a large pot, add your diced ham, rinsed beans, chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. This combination of ingredients creates a hearty base for your soup that will make your kitchen smell incredible!
Add the Broth and Spices: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, followed by the garlic powder and thyme. Stir everything together so that all the flavors start to mingle. You’ll want to see those beautiful colors come together!
Bring to a Boil: Turn the heat up and bring the mixture to a boil. This step is important because it gets the soup bubbling and begins the cooking process.
Simmer: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Keep it covered and let it work its magic for about 1 hour. This is when the beans will soften, and the flavors will deepen. You might want to sneak a taste halfway through; just be careful, it’ll be hot!
Season to Perfection: Before serving, taste your soup and add salt and pepper to suit your preference. This step is crucial because it brings all those delicious flavors together and makes your soup sing!

And there you have it! A simple, comforting bowl of ham and bean soup that’s perfect for any chilly day. Now, let’s move on to why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This *Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe* has so much going for it, and I can’t wait to share why it’s a favorite in my home! Here are some reasons you’ll absolutely adore this soup:

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this hearty soup simmering on the stove in no time!
Effortless and Simple: The steps are straightforward, making it perfect even for beginner cooks. Just toss everything in a pot and let it work its magic!
Flavorful: The combination of savory ham, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables creates a deliciously rich flavor that warms your soul.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only satisfying but also nutritious, making it a guilt-free comfort food.
Comforting: There’s nothing like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort on a chilly day. It’s like a big, cozy hug in a bowl!

Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple you’ll come back to time and again!

Tips for Success

To make sure your *Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe* turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that I swear by. These little nuggets of wisdom will help elevate your soup and ensure it’s as delicious as possible!

Timing is Key: Don’t rush the simmering process! Letting the soup simmer for a full hour allows the beans to soften beautifully and the flavors to meld together. If you’re using canned beans, you can simmer it for just 20-30 minutes to heat everything through.
Quality Ingredients Matter: The flavor of your soup heavily relies on the quality of your ingredients. Use good-quality ham and fresh vegetables. A nice, rich chicken broth can make all the difference, so if you can, go for homemade or a high-quality store-bought option.
Adjusting the Seasoning: Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. Every ham is different in saltiness, so it’s important to season to taste. You could also add a splash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra kick!
Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is a great choice, don’t hesitate to play around with other herbs. A bay leaf added during simmering or a sprinkle of parsley just before serving can add a lovely freshness.
Leftover Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

With these tips in mind, you’re set for a fantastic bowl of ham and bean soup that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Variations

The beauty of my *Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe* is its versatility! You can switch things up to keep your meals exciting and tailor them to your taste. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Different Beans: While I love using navy or great northern beans, feel free to experiment with other varieties! Black beans, pinto beans, or even lentils can add unique flavors and textures to your soup.
Add More Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in chopped spinach, kale, or even diced potatoes for added heartiness. You can also add bell peppers or zucchini for a pop of color and flavor!
Herb Swaps: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different herbs! Rosemary or oregano can give your soup a whole new dimension. Just remember to adjust the quantities since their flavors can be stronger than thyme.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the pot. A splash of hot sauce just before serving can also elevate the flavors beautifully!
Smoky Flavor: If you love that smoky taste, consider adding a smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke. This can enhance the depth of flavor and give your soup a cozy, campfire vibe.

These variations are just the beginning! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this soup your own. Each tweak can lead to a delightful new experience that keeps everyone excited for more!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious *Easy Ham and Bean Soup*, you might be wondering how to store those tempting leftovers. No worries! This soup keeps beautifully, and I’m here to guide you through it.

Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any condensation that could make it soggy. You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it!

Freezing Tips: If you’re freezing the soup, I recommend portioning it into smaller containers or freezer bags. This way, you can thaw just what you need later on. Make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion as the soup freezes. It will stay good in the freezer for about 3 months.

Reheating Instructions: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheating is a breeze. For stovetop reheating, just pour the desired amount into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you’re in a rush, you can also pop it in the microwave! Just transfer it to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot.

Remember, the flavors of the soup deepen over time, so those leftovers can be even more delicious! Enjoy every last spoonful!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying a comforting bowl of my *Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe*, knowing the nutritional values can help you savor it even more! Here’s the estimated nutritional information per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 250
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 10g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Whether you’re tracking your intake or just curious, I hope this helps you enjoy your soup even more!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my *Easy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe*? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you on your cooking journey:

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans? Absolutely! If you’re pressed for time, using canned beans is a great shortcut. Just make sure to rinse them well and add them during the last 20-30 minutes of simmering to heat them through without getting mushy.
What type of ham works best for this soup? Leftover ham from a holiday meal is perfect for this recipe, but you can also use a ham steak or deli ham. The key is to choose a ham that has some flavor, as it will enhance the soup.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes! If you prefer a slow cooker, simply combine all the ingredients and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s a fantastic way to let those flavors develop while you go about your day!
How can I make this soup vegetarian? To make a vegetarian version, swap the ham for smoked tofu or just omit it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add extra veggies or beans to keep it hearty!
Can I freeze this soup? Definitely! This soup freezes wonderfully. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Feel free to ask more questions if you have them! I’m always here to help you create the perfect bowl of soup.