Ham and Bean Soup with Thyme

Name: Ham and Bean Soup with Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight; 8 ounces cooked ham, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 rib celery, diced; 6 cups chicken broth; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Best Dinners Recipes

I absolutely love making Ham and Bean Soup with Thyme, especially on chilly days when comfort food is a must. The combination of tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic thyme creates a hearty dish that warms the soul. Each spoonful is filled with rich flavors, and the smell that wafts through the kitchen is irresistible. It’s simple yet fulfilling, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham and pantry staples!

Created by

The Chefsimonsfood Team

Last updated on 2026-03-11T19:47:06.347Z

Every time I make Ham and Bean Soup with Thyme, I reminisce about family gatherings where this dish was a staple. The way the ham infuses the broth with its smoky flavor combined with the subtle notes of thyme creates an unforgettable taste experience. I often let the soup simmer longer to deepen the flavors, which really makes a difference!

This soup also proves to be quite versatile; you can add in some vegetables like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition. Using dried beans is another tip that pays off, as they hold their shape and absorb the flavors beautifully as they cook. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that never disappoints!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cold day
Rich flavor from the combination of ham and fresh thyme
Easy to make and a great way to use leftovers

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of beans in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving that creamy texture in the Ham and Bean Soup. Navy beans, known for their mild flavor and smooth consistency, absorb the rich tastes of ham and thyme beautifully. If you can't find navy beans, great northern beans can be a good substitute, providing a similar texture and flavor profile. Just remember to soak them overnight to ensure even cooking and tenderness.

Diced ham serves as the star of the dish, adding savory depth and richness. Using leftover ham from a holiday meal is not only economical but also infuses the soup with a familiar, comforting taste. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey ham can be swapped in while keeping the overall flavors balanced. And for those seeking vegetarian alternatives, consider using smoked paprika and liquid smoke to impart a similar essence without meat.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sautéing the vegetables before adding the rest of the ingredients allows their natural sugars to caramelize, which enhances the soup's flavor. Aim for a golden brown color on the onions, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. This step helps to build a solid flavor foundation that's crucial in a hearty soup like this. If the vegetables start browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning.

Simmering the soup for a full 60 minutes is key to letting the flavors meld beautifully while ensuring the beans reach a desirable tenderness. It's important to keep the lid on during this time to retain moisture. If your beans are still firm after an hour, simply continue to simmer, checking every 10-15 minutes until they reach the preferred softness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Main Ingredients

1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
8 ounces cooked ham, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 rib celery, diced
6 cups chicken broth
2 sprigs fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure you have everything ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious soup:

Prepare the Beans

Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the rinsed beans, diced ham, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 60 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Season and Serve

Remove the thyme sprigs, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Enjoy your hearty Ham and Bean Soup with Thyme!

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, you can mash a portion of the beans during cooking or after to incorporate them into the broth.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Ham and Bean Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making leftovers even more delightful! If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

When reheating, stir the soup frequently to avoid sticking, especially if using a microwave. Heat it in short intervals, ensuring it warms evenly. You'll know it's ready when it reaches a gentle simmer, releasing its mouthwatering aroma. If you find the soup too thick after reheating, just add a little more broth to restore the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or soft cornbread for a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors and add a pop of color. I sometimes like to serve it with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the soup.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar before serving. This acidity works wonders, cutting through the richness of the ham and beans. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, can provide a unique twist while maintaining the essence of the dish. Don't hesitate to make your version of this comforting soup!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can substitute canned beans, but reduce the cooking time since they are already cooked.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as spinach or bell peppers.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and all other ingredients are gluten-free, the soup will be gluten-free.