Ham and Bean Soup Recipe (Stove Top, Slow Cooker, or Instant Pot)

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty and satisfying nature of a steaming bowl of ham and bean soup.

This classic recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, offering cooking options for the stove top, slow cooker, or Instant Pot. Whether you’re repurposing leftover ham or starting fresh, this soup is sure to warm your heart and your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the hands-on approach of stove-top cooking, the set-it-and-forget-it convenience of a slow cooker, or the speedy results of an Instant Pot, this recipe has you covered.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients like dried beans, vegetables, and ham.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and hearty flavors that make it a complete meal.
Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

1 pound dried beans (such as navy, Great Northern, or a 15-bean mix)
1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (for stove top method)

Instructions

Stove Top Method

Prepare the Beans: If using dried beans, rinse them and soak overnight in water. Drain and rinse again before using.
Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Add Ingredients: Add the beans, ham bone or diced ham, broth, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika.
Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.
Final Touches: Remove the ham bone (if used) and shred any remaining meat back into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Slow Cooker Method

No Soak Needed: Rinse the dried beans, but no need to soak them.
Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients to the slow cooker.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until beans are tender.
Finish: Remove the ham bone and shred the meat. Adjust seasoning and serve.

Instant Pot Method

Prepare the Beans: Rinse dried beans. No soaking required.
Sauté Vegetables: Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat olive oil and sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic for 5 minutes.
Add Ingredients: Add the beans, ham, broth, and seasonings. Stir to combine.
Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow a natural release for 15 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
Finish: Remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and season to taste. Serve warm.

Tips for Success

Bean Prep: Soaking beans overnight helps reduce cooking time and improves digestibility, but it’s not required when using a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Ham Bone Substitute: If you don’t have a ham bone, a smoked ham hock or diced ham works well.
Add Greens: For an extra nutrient boost, stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Thickening the Soup: For a thicker consistency, use a potato masher to partially mash some of the beans directly in the pot.
Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans? Yes, but reduce the cooking time. If using canned beans, add them during the last 30 minutes for the stove top or slow cooker method and after pressure cooking for the Instant Pot.

2. How do I store leftovers? Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

3. What can I serve with ham and bean soup? Pair it with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and confirm that your ham is gluten-free.

5. Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! Skip the ham and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables or smoked paprika for a depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Ham and bean soup is a timeless comfort food that adapts beautifully to different cooking methods. Whether you’re simmering it on the stove, letting it cook all day in a slow cooker, or speeding things up with an Instant Pot, this recipe delivers hearty, flavorful results every time. With its rich taste, budget-friendly ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

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