Ham & Bean Soup

Classic Ham & Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and incredibly simple to whip up. Packed with tender pulled ham, fresh veggies, and Great Northern beans, this soul-warming soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or last-minute cravings.  

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to chase away the chill on a frosty winter day. It doesn’t just warm your body; it brings a sense of coziness and nostalgia to every spoonful.  

Here in Wisconsin, where winter stretches on for what feels like forever, cozy meals are a must. Bonus points if they’re quick and hassle-free! This Ham & Bean Soup checks all the boxes with its comforting flavors and no-fuss preparation.

Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
• 1 yellow onion medium, chopped
• 2 carrots peeled & chopped
• 2 stalks celery chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspon thyme dried
• 6 cups chicken broth OR vegetable broth OR ham broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cans white beans drained & rinsed
• 2 cups ham pulled or chopped (I used heaping cups)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the carrots, celery, and onion. Season with salt and pepper and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and thyme. Cook, stirring, until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken broth, bay leaves, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer 5-10 minutes to combine all the flavors.
5. Add the beans and ham; simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
6. Taste the soup and add 1/2 teaspoon salt if needed.

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