Ham and Bean Soup
Ham and Bean Soup with Potatoes
There’s something about a pot of homemade soup simmering on the stove that instantly makes a kitchen feel warm and comforting. This Ham and Bean Soup with Potatoes is one of those cozy recipes that’s simple to make but full of rich, homemade flavor.
Tender chunks of ham, soft potatoes, hearty white beans, and sweet onion simmer together in a savory broth with just a splash of milk to round everything out. The soup isn’t thick or heavy — it’s perfectly brothy, comforting, and packed with flavor in every spoonful.
It’s the kind of soup that feels especially good on chilly evenings, but it’s easy enough to make anytime you’re craving something warm and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Ham and Bean Soup
This soup is simple, hearty, and made with everyday ingredients you may already have in your kitchen.
It’s perfect for:
• Using leftover ham
• Cozy family dinners
• Cold weather meals
• Easy weeknight cooking
• Make-ahead lunches
Because the broth is light instead of creamy, the flavors of the ham and beans really shine through.
Ingredients
• 2 cups cooked ham, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cans white beans (such as great northern or cannellini), drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
How to Make Ham and Bean Soup
Step 1: Cook the onion
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced onion over medium heat with a small drizzle of oil or butter until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 2: Add the broth and potatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes begin to soften.
Step 3: Add the ham and beans
Stir in the ham pieces and white beans. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Continue simmering for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
Step 4: Add the milk
Stir in the milk and heat gently for a few minutes. The milk adds a touch of creaminess without making the soup heavy.
Be careful not to boil after adding the milk.
Step 5: Serve
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm with crusty bread or biscuits.
Jennie’s Thoughts
This soup is one of those simple, comforting meals that always feels like home. I love that it’s hearty without being too heavy, and the broth has so much flavor from the ham and beans simmering together.
The potatoes make it filling, while the splash of milk softens the broth just enough to make it extra comforting. It’s the kind of soup that tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had time to settle in.
Some of the best recipes are the ones that come together from simple ingredients — and this soup is a perfect example of that.
Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup
• Use leftover ham for the best flavor
• Dice potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate
• Simmer gently to keep the broth clear and flavorful
• Add salt carefully since ham can already be salty
Variations to Try
This soup is very flexible and easy to adjust depending on what you have in your kitchen.
You can try adding:
• Carrots or celery
• A pinch of thyme or smoked paprika
• Extra beans for a heartier soup
• A splash of cream instead of milk for a richer version
How to Store
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat until hot.
This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
This Ham and Bean Soup with Potatoes is simple, cozy, and full of comforting flavor. With tender ham, hearty beans, and a savory broth, it’s the kind of soup that makes dinner feel easy and satisfying.
Serve it with warm bread or biscuits, and you’ve got a meal that feels homemade, hearty, and perfect for sharing.
