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Easy Ham and Bean Soup

A hearty, comforting soup made with tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights or using leftover holiday ham.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

Soup
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery ribs sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 cups diced ham
  • 3 cans white beans drained and rinsed
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  4. Add ham and sauté 2–3 minutes.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and add beans, bay leaf, and thyme.
  6. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 25–30 minutes.
  7. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  8. Remove bay leaf and serve garnished with parsley.

Notes

For extra creaminess, mash a portion of the beans before simmering.