Ham and Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs

Name: Ham and Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried cannellini beans; 1 cup dried navy beans; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups diced ham; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil

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I love making Ham and Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs during the colder months. The hearty combination of tender beans and smoky ham creates a comforting dish that warms the soul. Using fresh herbs like thyme and parsley elevates the flavors and adds a delightful aromatic quality. I often find myself savoring each spoonful while reminiscing about family gatherings where this dish was a staple. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Created by

The Chefbradrecipes Team

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:50:20.593Z

When I first tried making Ham and Bean Soup, I was surprised at how simple yet delightful the process was. The key is in allowing the beans to cook slowly, which gives them a creamy texture that blends beautifully with the ham. I found that soaking the beans overnight really helps to reduce cooking time and ensures they’re perfectly tender.

During my last preparation, I decided to use a mix of both cannellini and navy beans, which added a lovely variety of textures. The fresh herbs made such a difference in the aroma as it simmered away, filling my kitchen with warmth and comfort. I can’t recommend this dish enough for a cozy evening!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Hearty and filling, perfect for cold weather
Rich flavors from fresh herbs combined with smoky ham
Easy to prepare and makes great leftovers

Essential Techniques for Perfect Beans

Soaking the beans overnight is pivotal for achieving the desired texture in your Ham and Bean Soup. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps to improve digestibility by breaking down indigestible sugars. If you're in a rush, you can opt for a quick soak method: boil the beans for 2 minutes, remove from heat, and let them sit covered for 1 hour before using. This method can be a lifesaver on busy evenings.

When ready to cook, ensure you drain and rinse the beans thoroughly. This helps remove any leftover anti-nutrients and might even reduce cooking foam. If you notice any shriveled or discolored beans, discard them before cooking. Well-prepared beans provide a creamy texture that complements the smoky ham beautifully.

The Role of Fresh Herbs

In this recipe, fresh thyme and parsley bring not just flavor but also brightness to the soup. Thyme works by infusing the broth with earthy, aromatic notes that balance the saltiness of the ham. If fresh thyme isn’t available, dried thyme can be a substitute; use about a third of the amount, approximately 2 teaspoons, since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Parsley, added just before serving, keeps its color and fresh taste intact. If you happen to have other fresh herbs, such as dill or chives, feel free to toss those in too, adjusting based on your preferences. This customization allows the soup to evolve with the seasons, highlighting different fresh herbs available at different times of the year.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ham and Bean Soup stores incredibly well, making it a great option for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer your soup to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious on subsequent days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space in the containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it gently on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and check for seasoning—sometimes, a pinch of salt or a splash of vinegar can brighten the flavors after freezing. If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration or freezing, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a delicious Ham and Bean Soup:

Ingredients

1 cup dried cannellini beans
1 cup dried navy beans
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups diced ham
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure all your ingredients are prepped before you start cooking for a smoother process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Ham and Bean Soup:

Prepare the beans

Soak the dried beans in water overnight. This will help them cook faster and make them easier to digest.

Sauté the vegetables

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

Add garlic and ham

Stir in the minced garlic and diced ham, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine the ingredients

Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Add them to the pot along with chicken broth, thyme, and season with salt and pepper.

Simmer the soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 60 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Finish with fresh herbs

Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving to keep its vibrant flavor.

Serve the soup hot, ideally with some crusty bread for dipping!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a smoked bone or some chili flakes when simmering the soup. This enhances the depth of flavor significantly.

Serving Suggestions

Ham and Bean Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. The crusty texture of a rustic sourdough bread complements the velvety soup, perfect for dipping. If you want to make it more of a meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables or a light coleslaw to bring some crunch to your dinner plate.

For a gourmet touch, top each serving of soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a swirl of extra-virgin olive oil. This enhances both flavor and presentation, making even simple weeknight meals feel special.

Flavor Variations

Though this Ham and Bean Soup is delightful as is, feel free to experiment with additional ingredients. Adding a diced potato or two can introduce a heartier texture, while smoked paprika can accentuate the smoky ham flavor for a little extra depth. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a couple of dashes of hot sauce can bring warmth without overwhelming the dish.

Additionally, for a vegetarian option, swap the ham for smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke to preserve the smoky essence, using vegetable broth instead of chicken. This versatility means everyone can enjoy a comforting bowl, no matter their dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can substitute canned beans. Just rinse and add them in towards the end of cooking.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then freeze it in portions. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.