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Classic Ham and Bean Soup - Easy Comfort Food

This hearty ham and bean soup is packed with rich flavors, making it the perfect comfort food. A simple, delicious way to use leftover ham!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Course: Soups & Stews
Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer cookies easy recipes, butter swim biscuits easy recipes, cheesey potatoes easy recipe, easy recipes for dinner, easy recipes ninja creami, food receipt easy recipes
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Clara

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 ham bone (or 2 cups diced ham)
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the ham bone (or diced ham).
  4. Stir in white beans, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  5. Drop in the bay leaf and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
  6. Reduce heat and let simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Remove the ham bone, shred any meat, and return it to the soup.
  8. Discard the bay leaf, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans before serving. Pairs well with crusty bread or butter swim biscuits.