This hearty and nourishing soup blends the smoky richness of ham with a medley of tender beans and savory vegetables. The long, slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a soul-warming bowl that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something wholesome and homemade.
Loaded with protein and fiber, this is a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare ahead and tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this soup brings both comfort and convenience to your kitchen table.
Full Recipe:
1 (20 oz) package 15-bean soup mix
Water (enough to soak and boil beans)
2 cups chopped cooked ham
1 ham bone
3 carrots, chopped
3 celery ribs, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups vegetable juice (like V8)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 bay leaves
Chicken broth (enough to cover and adjust as needed)
Salt to taste
Directions:
Place beans in a large container and cover with several inches of cool water; soak for 8 hours or overnight.
Drain the beans, transfer to a large pot, and add water to cover by about 1 inch.
Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Drain beans again.
Return beans to the pot and add ham, ham bone, carrots, celery, onion, and undrained tomatoes.
Stir in vegetable broth, vegetable juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, chili powder, parsley, black pepper, and bay leaves.
Pour in enough chicken broth to cover all ingredients. Simmer on low for 8 hours, stirring occasionally and adding more broth as needed.
Discard the ham bone, add salt to taste, and continue simmering for another 1–2 hours.
Remove bay leaves and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 hours | Total Time: 10 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: ~310 kcal per serving | Servings: 8
Introduction: A Soup Steeped in Comfort and Tradition
Bean and ham soup is one of those classic dishes that seems to transcend generations. Whether you grew up in a bustling household that simmered soups all winter long or you’re discovering this comfort staple for the first time, there’s no denying the warm, hearty satisfaction of a bowl filled with slow-cooked beans, savory ham, and robust aromatics. “The Best Bean and Ham Soup” is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary hug, a symbol of resourceful cooking, and a time-tested recipe that continues to delight families around the world.
This particular version stands out for its use of a dried 15-bean mix, which provides texture, color, and a spectrum of subtle flavors. When simmered low and slow with chunks of ham, vegetables, and a medley of seasonings, the result is a rich, nourishing soup that’s perfect for cozy evenings, meal prepping, or sharing with guests.
Why This Soup Works So Well
What makes this soup so memorable isn’t just the ingredients—it’s the method. The slow simmering process allows each element to release its essence, blending harmoniously into a savory, slightly smoky broth. The beans absorb all the flavors around them, including the richness of the ham bone, the brightness of tomatoes, and the depth from ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and lemon juice.
The use of both vegetable juice and chicken broth in the base gives the soup a nuanced body that water alone can’t provide. Meanwhile, the carrots, celery, and onion (commonly referred to as the mirepoix) add natural sweetness and texture, balancing the saltiness of the ham. It’s a dance of flavors that culminates in a dish that feels both rustic and refined.
The Heart of the Recipe: A Symphony of Beans and Ham
The foundation of this soup lies in its namesake ingredients: beans and ham. But not just any beans—a 15-bean soup mix brings variety and complexity. The medley typically includes lentils, lima beans, navy beans, black beans, pinto beans, red beans, kidney beans, and more. Each type offers a different size, texture, and level of starch, which thickens the soup naturally over time without the need for flour or cream.
As for the ham, a smoked ham hock or leftover ham bone is ideal, contributing layers of flavor that are impossible to replicate with just diced meat alone. It imparts smokiness and umami while also releasing marrow and collagen into the broth, adding body and richness. The chunks of ham added alongside the bone provide bite and substance, making the soup feel hearty and satisfying.
The Role of Seasonings and Aromatics
While beans and ham are the stars, it’s the supporting cast of seasonings that rounds out this dish. Dijon mustard adds a tangy sharpness that cuts through the fattiness of the ham. Worcestershire sauce offers umami depth, enhancing the savory notes without overpowering the dish. Lemon juice brings brightness and balance, preventing the soup from tasting too heavy or salty.
Then there are the herbs and spices—parsley, chili powder, and bay leaves—which introduce warmth and earthiness. Each addition is subtle but meaningful. For instance, the bay leaves simmering away for hours infuse a mellow, almost tea-like bitterness that balances the sweeter notes from vegetables like carrots.
A Flexible Recipe for Modern Home Cooks
One of the best things about this soup is its adaptability. Although the original recipe calls for a stovetop method and an 8–10 hour cook time, it translates beautifully to modern kitchen tools. It’s ideal for slow cookers, where you can set it and forget it. Many home cooks also use electric pressure cookers like the Instant Pot to speed up the process while still achieving deep, slow-cooked flavor.
The recipe is also highly forgiving. Out of vegetable juice? Add more broth. Want a spicier kick? Increase the chili powder or toss in a dash of hot sauce. Prefer a vegetarian version? Skip the ham and use smoked paprika and a vegetable-based bouillon to simulate that smoky depth. This is a dish that welcomes personalization.
Nutritional Benefits and Hearty Satisfaction
This isn’t just a soup that fills your belly—it’s one that nourishes. Beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. They’re known to support heart health, stabilize blood sugar, and promote digestive wellness. Pair that with lean cuts of ham, which provide protein and a savory punch, and you have a balanced meal that sustains energy and satisfies hunger.
The addition of various vegetables boosts the soup’s vitamin content while providing color and texture. With relatively low fat content and a focus on whole, minimally processed ingredients, this soup easily fits into a healthy, well-rounded diet.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Another major advantage of this soup is how well it stores and even improves over time. Like many stews and soups, the flavors deepen after a day or two in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for make-ahead meals. A big batch can last up to five days in the refrigerator, or it can be portioned out and frozen for quick weeknight dinners later on.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for yourself, this soup delivers big on value and flavor. Pair it with a slice of cornbread, a crusty baguette, or even a light salad to make a complete and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
While this soup shines all on its own, it can be elevated with a few simple accompaniments. A warm, buttery cornbread offers a sweet contrast to the savory broth. Crusty artisan bread or garlic toast is perfect for dunking and soaking up every last drop.
For a lighter touch, consider serving the soup alongside a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette, or add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions for a little extra brightness. You can even sprinkle shredded cheese on top if you’re in the mood for added indulgence.
A Comfort Food for All Seasons
Though bean and ham soup is often associated with colder months, its appeal stretches year-round. It’s cozy and hearty for winter, yet light enough for a rainy spring day. It can be enjoyed by the bowl during a solo lunch or served family-style in a big pot at your next gathering. It’s especially great around the holidays when leftover ham is plentiful.
This recipe also has a nostalgic quality for many people, evoking memories of family dinners, snow days, or the irresistible smell wafting through the kitchen after a long day. It’s a recipe that comforts the body and soul alike.
Conclusion: A Bowl Full of Heart
At its core, “The Best Bean and Ham Soup” is more than just an easy dinner option—it’s a celebration of traditional cooking done right. It highlights the magic that happens when humble ingredients are given time, care, and seasoning. From its multi-bean medley to the richness of slow-simmered ham, every bite offers warmth and satisfaction.
Whether you’re new to this type of soup or it’s already a family favorite, this recipe is worth making, sharing, and passing down. Its hearty nature, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients make it a staple you’ll return to again and again. Perfect for meal prepping, family dinners, or comforting yourself after a long day, this soup isn’t just food—it’s home in a bowl.