Name: Creamy Ham and Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups ham, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp thyme; 1 tsp black pepper

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There’s something about a steaming bowl of creamy ham and bean soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, don’t you think? This dish is not just food; it’s a comforting experience that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. As a child, I remember my grandmother stirring a pot of this rich, flavorful soup on the stove, filling the air with the most inviting aroma. Fast forward to today, and I still find myself making this creamy ham and bean soup whenever I need a taste of home.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients like diced ham, white beans, and heavy cream, you can create a hearty meal in no time. In under 45 minutes, you can have a rich, velvety soup that warms the soul and satisfies the belly. Plus, it’s perfect for using up leftover ham! Whether you’re serving it on a rainy day or during a cozy family gathering, this creamy ham and bean soup is sure to be a hit. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients List

To make this delicious creamy ham and bean soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups ham, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup heavy cream

For seasoning:

1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon black pepper

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a warm, hearty meal that really hits the spot!

How to Prepare Creamy Ham and Bean Soup

Making creamy ham and bean soup is a breeze, and I’m excited to guide you through each step! Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious bowl of comfort in no time.

Step 1: Sautéing the Base

First things first, let’s get that pot heated up! Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a large pot and turn the heat to medium. Once the oil is shimmering, add in 1 cup of chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. You’ll want to cook this mixture for about 3-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. The aroma will be absolutely heavenly – trust me, this is where the magic begins!

Step 2: Adding the Ham

Now it’s time to add the star ingredient: 2 cups of diced ham! Toss it into the pot and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the ham to release its savory flavors, infusing the soup with that irresistible taste we all love. You’ll notice the edges of the ham starting to caramelize a bit, which is just what you want!

Step 3: Incorporating Broth and Beans

Next up, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and add in those 2 cans of drained and rinsed white beans. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a boil. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s bubbling away, you’ll know it’s time to move on to the next step!

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, along with 1 teaspoon of thyme and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This is when the soup becomes creamy and luscious – oh, that texture is just perfect! You’ll want to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. When you’re done, you’ll have a rich and velvety soup that’s ready to serve!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy ham and bean soup isn’t just delicious; it’s a true lifesaver in the kitchen! Here are a few reasons why you’ll be reaching for this recipe time and time again:

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you can have a hearty meal ready in less than an hour.
Hearty Flavors: The combination of savory ham, creamy broth, and tender beans creates a flavor explosion that will warm you up from the inside out.
Comforting Qualities: This soup brings that cozy, home-cooked feeling to your table, making it perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, making the recipe your own every time!

Once you try it, you’ll see why this creamy ham and bean soup is a staple in my kitchen!

Tips for Success

Want to make your creamy ham and bean soup even more delicious? Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate this comforting dish:

Use Quality Ham: The flavor of your soup can really shine with good-quality, flavorful ham. If you have leftover holiday ham, this is the perfect way to use it! If you’re buying ham, look for one that’s not too salty to keep the soup balanced.
Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant is key. This step builds a flavor base that makes your soup truly special. You want just the right amount of caramelization to deepen the flavors!
Adjust the Cream: If you prefer a lighter soup, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk. Just remember that the creaminess is part of what makes this soup so comforting!
Add Veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in some chopped carrots, celery, or even spinach for added nutrition! Just sauté them with the onions for the best results. They’ll blend beautifully into the soup.
Season to Taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning! A little extra pepper or a dash of hot sauce can really bring the flavors to life.
Let It Rest: If you can, let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. It’ll taste even better the next day, so consider making a double batch!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect creamy ham and bean soup that your family and friends will rave about!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food like creamy ham and bean soup, it’s always good to know what you’re serving up! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving, so you can enjoy this delicious dish with a bit of insight:

Calories: Approximately 300
Fat: 15g
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 500mg
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 2g
Vitamin A: 500 IU
Vitamin C: 2mg
Calcium: 100mg
Iron: 2mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Whether you’re counting calories or just looking for a hearty meal, this creamy ham and bean soup delivers both flavor and nourishment!

FAQ Section

If you’re curious about creamy ham and bean soup, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions that might help you as you dive into making this comforting dish:

Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use dried beans, just make sure to soak them overnight and cook them separately until tender before adding them to the soup. This way, they’ll be perfectly soft and ready to soak up all that delicious flavor!
Q: What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk works great too! Just keep in mind that the soup may be a bit less rich, but it will still taste wonderful. For a dairy-free version, you can try coconut milk for a subtle sweetness!
Q: How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To transform this creamy ham and bean soup into a vegetarian delight, simply omit the ham and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or even some mushrooms to enhance the flavors!
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! This soup freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove. It’ll taste just as delicious!
Q: How do I store the soup?
The best way to store creamy ham and bean soup is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before reheating, as the ingredients might settle a bit!

I hope these answers help you feel more confident about making your own creamy ham and bean soup. It’s such a versatile recipe that can adapt to your tastes and needs!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers of your creamy ham and bean soup is super easy, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a cozy meal later! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Once your soup has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any unwanted odors from the fridge seeping in. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients might settle a bit.

If you want to save some for a longer period, freezing is a great option! Let the soup cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container or bag, as the soup will expand when it freezes. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your creamy ham and bean soup again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, I recommend warming it up on the stove over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If it looks a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You’ll have that comforting soup ready to go in no time!