hearty navy bean and ham soup recipe

 

🥣 Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Soup Recipe: A Classic Comfort in Every Spoonful

When the temperatures drop or you're simply craving something nourishing and nostalgic, few dishes hit the spot quite like a big bowl of Navy Bean and Ham Soup. This hearty, wholesome soup is the ultimate comfort food — filled with tender white beans, smoky ham, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that warms you from the inside out.

Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or starting from scratch, this is a budget-friendly, protein-packed recipe that’s stood the test of time. One pot, simple ingredients, and maximum flavor — it's the kind of meal that makes your home smell amazing and your family ask for seconds.

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🍲 Why You’ll Love This Soup

• ✅ Incredibly filling yet made with humble, pantry staples

• ✅ Great way to use leftover ham or ham bone

• ✅ Rich, smoky broth loaded with flavor

• ✅ Perfect for meal prep — it tastes even better the next day

• ✅ Freezer-friendly for easy weeknight dinners later on

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📝 Ingredients

Here's everything you need for a hearty pot of soup:

• 1 lb dried navy beans (or great northern beans)

• 1 meaty ham bone or 2–3 cups cooked diced ham

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (plus water if needed)

• 1 bay leaf

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Soak the Beans (if using dried)

• Overnight method: Place beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Soak for at least 8 hours.

• Quick soak: Boil beans in a pot of water for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let soak for 1 hour. Drain and rinse before cooking.

🥫 Short on time? You can use canned navy beans — just rinse and reduce the simmering time by half.

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2. Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

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3. Add Ham and Beans

• Add soaked beans, ham bone (or diced ham), broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot.

• Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beans are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally and add water if needed.

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4. Finish and Serve

• Remove the ham bone and bay leaf. If using a bone, shred off any remaining meat and return it to the soup.

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

• Serve hot with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad.

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❄️ Storage & Freezing

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Let soup cool completely. Freeze in individual containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

• To Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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🔄 Optional Add-Ins & Variations

• 🥬 Add a handful of spinach or kale near the end for extra nutrients

• 🍅 Stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a slightly tangy twist

• 🌶️ Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat

• 🧀 Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for richness

• 🍖 Use smoked turkey or bacon instead of ham for a different flavor profile

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💬 Final Thoughts: A Soup That Feels Like Home

This Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Soup is more than just a recipe — it's tradition in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that brings back memories, stretches your grocery dollar, and leaves you full and satisfied. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd after the holidays, this timeless soup always delivers.

So grab your biggest pot, some crusty bread, and a few simple ingredients — and enjoy the kind of cozy comfort only homemade soup can bring.