Ham and Bean Soup with Savory Drippings

Name: Ham and Bean Soup with Savory Drippings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of cooked ham, diced; 1 cup dried white beans, soaked overnight; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Splash of vinegar (optional)

Highlighted under: Dinner Recipes

When cold weather sets in, I turn to my cozy Ham and Bean Soup with Savory Drippings. Using leftover ham makes this hearty dish not only delicious but also a great way to reduce waste. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, and I love how the savory drippings add depth to the broth. It’s perfect for warming me up on chilly nights, and it’s an easy recipe that I can whip up in no time. I can already imagine it simmering on the stove while I catch up on my favorite book!

Created by

The Hazelsrecipes Team

Last updated on 2026-02-14T21:02:56.299Z

I remember the first time I made this ham and bean soup—it turned a chilly winter evening into a cozy, flavorful feast. The combination of tender beans and savory ham makes each bowl a delight. I highly recommend letting the soup simmer longer to enhance the flavors; patience truly pays off!

One of my favorite tips is to add a splash of vinegar right before serving. It brightens up the flavors and gives the soup a nice balance. Besides, using leftover drippings from a recent ham dinner elevates this dish to another level, making it both comforting and resourceful.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Rich, savory flavor from the drippings
Hearty and filling with every bite
Easy to make with minimal prep time

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a warm, delightful soup:

Ingredients for Ham and Bean Soup

2 cups of cooked ham, diced
1 cup dried white beans, soaked overnight
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Splash of vinegar (optional)

Once you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious ham and bean soup:

Drain the soaked beans and set aside. This helps to remove excess sodium and ensures a creamy texture.

In a large pot, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of oil until they are soft.

Add the garlic, cooked ham, beans, broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well.

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

Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and add a splash of vinegar if desired before serving. Enjoy!

Serve hot and warm up with a big bowl of this delicious soup!

Serving Suggestions

Ham and Bean Soup is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or buttery cornbread elevates the experience. I often serve it with a side salad for a complete meal, adding freshness to balance the richness of the soup. You can also throw in some fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, on top before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

For a cozy presentation, serve it in large bowls and top with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or grated cheese. If you want a touch of heat, a few dashes of hot sauce can work wonders. This soup can also be made into a complete meal with the addition of grains like rice or quinoa, which will absorb the soup's flavor beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is an excellent make-ahead meal; in fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen the soup if it thickens too much in the fridge.

If you're looking to freeze portions for later, let the soup cool before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It’s best to freeze it without any additional ingredients like vinegar, as that can alter the texture upon thawing. Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, if you're short on time, use two cans of beans, drained and rinsed. Add them in the last 20 minutes of cooking.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for ham?

You can use smoked turkey or a vegetarian alternative like tempeh or mushrooms for a different flavor.

→ How do I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you sauté the vegetables for an extra kick!