Ham and Bean Soup with Creamy Herb Broth

Name: Ham and Bean Soup with Creamy Herb Broth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound cooked ham, diced; 2 cups dried white beans, soaked overnight and drained; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Warming Food Recipes

I absolutely love cozying up with a warm bowl of Ham and Bean Soup with Creamy Herb Broth. It's become a favorite in my household, especially during the colder months. The combination of tender ham and hearty beans creates a satisfying dish that not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul. The addition of a creamy herb broth takes it to another level, making it a comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. Have some crusty bread on the side, and you’ve got a winner!

Created by

The Spoonandpan Team

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:14:18.393Z

When creating this Ham and Bean Soup, I wanted to strike the right balance between hearty and wholesome. The secret to achieving that creamy texture lies in blending a portion of the beans into the broth. This not only thickens the soup but also enhances the flavors, making every spoonful rich and comforting.

Moreover, I discovered that using fresh herbs like thyme and parsley elevates the soup beyond standard fare. They infuse a vibrant aroma and depth that really transforms the dish. Be sure to taste as you go, adjusting those herbs to suit your palate!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Rich, creamy broth with a burst of fresh herbs
Hearty beans paired with tender ham for a fulfilling meal
Perfect for meal prep and easy to freeze for later

Perfecting the Broth

The rich, creamy broth is the star of this Ham and Bean Soup, and achieving the perfect balance of flavors is crucial. Start by sautéing the vegetables until they are softened and slightly translucent—this typically takes about 5 minutes. This initial cooking step is vital, as it enhances the sweetness of the onions and carrots, contributing depth to the overall broth. Don’t rush this step; the aromatics will create a flavor foundation that makes all the difference.

After incorporating the ham and beans, the choice of chicken broth can significantly impact the soup's final taste. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth if you prefer more control over the saltiness of your dish. For an added layer of flavor, consider using homemade broth, allowing the richness to shine through. If you're feeling adventurous, a splash of white wine before adding broth can elevate the complexity of the broth beautifully.

Creaminess and Texture

To achieve the ideal creamy texture without overwhelming the dish, it’s important to blend only part of the soup mixture. Using an immersion blender for about half of the soup creates a delightful thickening effect while keeping some whole beans intact for texture, transforming your soup into a comforting meal. Make sure to blend until the mixture is smooth but still has a few chunky pieces—this balance will keep the experience enjoyable with great mouthfeel.

Incorporating heavy cream not only adds richness but also mellows the flavors, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option. Just bear in mind that the final flavor and texture may vary slightly, so adjust the seasoning accordingly after mixing in your chosen alternative.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create the comforting Ham and Bean Soup with Creamy Herb Broth:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound cooked ham, diced
2 cups dried white beans, soaked overnight and drained
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious homemade soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Ham and Beans

Incorporate the diced ham and drained beans into the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the ham to release its flavors.

Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30 minutes.

Creamy Finish

After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree about half of the soup to thicken the broth. Stir in the heavy cream and fresh parsley for a delightful finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Now, all that's left is to serve and enjoy this comforting soup!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Ham and Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep and can easily be stored for later enjoyment. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, I recommend separating the soup into portion-sized containers to make reheating easier later on.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or scorching. If the soup has thickened too much after freezing, simply add a splash of additional broth or water while heating to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Ham and Bean Soup with a side of crusty bread or fresh biscuits is a must for a complete meal. The bread can be swiped through the creamy broth, enhancing the experience. You might also consider topping each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra touch of indulgence and flavor contrast.

For a lighter pairing, serve the soup alongside a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing balance to the hearty soup, making it a satisfying meal without being too heavy. Feel free to experiment with toppings as well—crispy bacon bits or chopped green onions can add delightful texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Absolutely! If using canned beans, drain and rinse them, and add them in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can substitute the ham with smoked mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ What herbs can I use instead of thyme?

Oregano or rosemary are great alternatives and will add their unique flavors to the soup.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! Just reheat it on the stove and enjoy.