This ham and butter bean soup delivers hearty comfort in just 30 minutes. I’ve perfected a simple method that combines tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables into a rich, satisfying broth that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

The key to this recipe is using canned butter beans, which eliminates lengthy soaking and cooking times. I sauté onions, garlic, and diced ham in a large pot before adding the beans, broth, and herbs, creating a flavorful base that simmers into a comforting soup.

You’ll achieve a perfectly balanced soup with tender beans and flavorful ham in under 30 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This recipe makes 4-6 servings, perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

For the best results, use a high-quality ham steak or leftover ham. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving. Enjoy this comforting soup with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients for ham and butter bean soup

Here’s everything you need to make this comforting ham and butter bean soup recipe.

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You can find canned butter beans at most grocery stores, often near other canned beans. For the best ham flavor, use a high-quality ham steak or leftover ham from the deli counter. Look for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels. Fresh thyme works too – use 1 tablespoon when the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon dried.

If you can't find canned butter beans, substitute with cannellini or Great Northern beans. For a smokier flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Adjust the amount of black pepper to your taste preferences.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if needed to thin the soup. Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months – thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ham and Butter Bean Soup

Let me guide you through making this hearty soup that’ll be ready in just 30 minutes.

🍳 Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 whole diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and starts to caramelize. You’ll know it’s ready when the onion releases its fragrance and turns slightly golden.

Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should be fragrant and slightly softened. Be careful not to let it burn, as this can give a bitter taste to your soup.

🍲 Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Add 1 cup of diced ham, 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 tsp of dried thyme, 2 whole bay leaves, 0.5 tsp of black pepper, and 0.25 tsp of salt to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully. During this time, the soup will start to thicken slightly and the flavors will become more pronounced.

🥘 Step 3: Add Butter Beans and Finish

Add 2 cans of drained and rinsed butter beans to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes until the beans are heated through. The soup is now ready to be served.

Remove the bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with 0.25 cup of chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious soup.

Are you ready to warm up with a delicious and comforting bowl of goodness? 😋 Our ham and butter bean soup recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will become a staple in your kitchen. This hearty soup is made with tender ham, creamy butter beans, and a hint of aromatic spices, all simmered together in a rich and savory broth.

Nourishing Ingredients 🥗

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You’ll need:

• 1 cup diced cooked ham
• 1 can butter beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Cooking Tips 🔥

To get the most out of this recipe, make sure to:

• Use a good quality ham for the best flavor
• Don’t overcook the soup, as it can become too thick
• Add some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness

This ham and butter bean soup recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. The butter beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, while the ham adds a boost of vitamin B12. 📊 With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, you can have a healthy and satisfying meal on the table in no time.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Ham and Butter Bean Soup

These tried-and-tested tips will help you make the most of this comforting soup recipe.

Flavor Enhancement: For an extra depth of flavor, use a mixture of chicken and vegetable broth instead of just chicken broth. You can also add a ham bone during the simmering process for a richer taste. 🔥

Texture Control: If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash some of the butter beans against the side of the pot before serving. For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream towards the end of cooking.

Make-Ahead Strategy: You can prepare this soup up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop. The flavors will meld together even more during storage.