Hearty Winter Ham and Bean Soup

Name: Hearty Winter Ham and Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ham, cubed; 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal Food

I absolutely love making soups during the winter, and this Hearty Winter Ham and Bean Soup is one of my favorites. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender beans, rich ham, and fresh vegetables creates a comforting bowl of goodness that warms me from the inside out. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your winter meal rotation!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-14T15:33:18.234Z

When the chilly wind starts blowing, there's nothing quite like a hearty bowl of soup to warm you up. I started making this Hearty Winter Ham and Bean Soup during cold months and found it to be the perfect antidote to winter blues. The first time I made it, my family couldn’t get enough of the flavors, and now it’s a regular addition to our winter menu.

What makes this soup so special is the slow simmering, which brings out the rich flavors of the ham and allows the beans to absorb all that deliciousness. I also like to toss in a bay leaf for an aromatic touch. Trust me, a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving makes all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich flavors from slow-cooked ham and fresh vegetables
Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly nights
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup required

      

Ingredients Matter

The choice of ham in this recipe significantly impacts the overall flavor of the soup. I recommend using a smoked ham for its rich, deep savory notes, but if you're looking for a lighter option, turkey ham works well too. Ensure the cubed ham is evenly diced to allow for uniform cooking, which will release its flavors into the broth and other ingredients more effectively during the simmering process.

Cannellini beans are a great choice for this soup due to their creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor. They not only add protein but also help thicken the soup. If you can't find cannellini beans, great northern beans or navy beans can be excellent substitutes. If you're using dried beans, make sure to soak them overnight and adjust your cooking time accordingly, as they will need to cook longer than canned beans.

Techniques for Perfect Soup

Sautéing the vegetables at the beginning is crucial for developing a flavor base. Keep an eye on them until they become tender but aren't browned, as browning can introduce bitterness. Using a Dutch oven is ideal for this, as it helps retain heat and distribute it evenly, promoting a proper steeping of flavors as the soup simmers.

Simmering the soup for at least 45 minutes allows the beans to absorb the ham's smoky flavor while also allowing the garlic and vegetables to mellow. If you're short on time, you can simmer for less—but for the best results, patience is key. Occasionally stir to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, and check that the soup doesn’t reduce too much; you want a hearty consistency, not a paste!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Hearty Winter Ham and Bean Soup:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ham, cubed
2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go for the best cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Hearty Winter Ham and Bean Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened, stirring occasionally.

Add Ham and Garlic

Add the cubed ham and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the ham is slightly browned and aromatic.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Simmer the Soup

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Now, enjoy the warming and delicious flavors of your homemade Hearty Winter Ham and Bean Soup!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables. You can also substitute the ham with turkey or add some kale for a healthier twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Hearty Winter Ham and Bean Soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread or fluffy cornbread for dipping. Spread softened butter or garlic herb butter on the bread for an added touch of deliciousness. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup, enhancing your overall meal experience.

For extra flair, consider garnishing the soup with croutons or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a dash of red pepper flakes just before serving adds brightness and a little kick, elevating the flavors even further.

Storage and Reheating

This soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container, and it will only get better as the flavors continue to meld. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just ensure you leave space in your containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave for a quick defrost. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching. Adding a splash of chicken broth during reheating can help restore its ideal consistency, especially if it has thickened in the fridge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried beans. You'll need to soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding them to the soup.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.