Ham and Bean Soup with Fresh Thyme

Name: Ham and Bean Soup with Fresh Thyme
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried white beans (such as Great Northern or cannellini); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cups cooked ham, diced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Cooking | Raw & Green

I often find myself craving a warm bowl of comfort, and this Ham and Bean Soup with Fresh Thyme never fails to satisfy. The rich flavors of tender beans and chunks of ham, combined with the aromatic essence of fresh thyme, create a dish that’s both hearty and nourishing. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you want to cozy up with something delicious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing me to whip it up quickly any night of the week.

Created by

Wendys

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:26:18.912Z

Making this Ham and Bean Soup was an adventure in flavor for me. I started with dried beans, soaking them overnight to enhance their texture and richness in the soup. Adding the ham hocks brought depth to the dish, and the fresh thyme added just the right hint of herbal brightness that made every spoonful delightful. Trust me, using homemade stock instead of water elevates the soup dramatically!

As I was preparing, I remembered the importance of seasoning each layer. I added a bit of salt while cooking the beans to ensure they absorbed enough flavor. The result is a warming, hearty soup that I could enjoy at any time of the year. I like to serve it with crusty bread for the perfect meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with rich, comforting flavors
Simple to prepare, but packed with layers of taste
Perfect for meal prep and keeps well for leftovers

      

The Heart of the Soup

The combination of dried white beans and ham is what makes this soup a standout. The beans not only contribute a creamy texture when cooked but also absorb the savory flavors, enhancing the overall depth of the dish. I recommend using Great Northern or cannellini beans for their mild flavor and optimal creaminess. If you forget to soak the beans overnight, you can also use the quick soak method: boil them for a few minutes and then let them sit for an hour before draining.

While the ham provides a punch of salty, umami goodness, the addition of fresh thyme elevates the flavor profile significantly. This aromatic herb complements the other ingredients and adds a fragrant layer that brings a comforting warmth to the soup. If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can substitute with dried thyme, but remember to use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. This small adjustment can make a big difference in your dish!

Perfecting the Simmer

Getting the simmer just right is crucial for developing a rich flavor in your Ham and Bean Soup. Once you bring the pot to a boil after adding the broth, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. This usually takes about 5-10 minutes on the stovetop, and you want to avoid boiling vigorously, which can cause the beans to break apart and lose their creamy texture. Occasionally stir during this time to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

After about 60 minutes of simmering, check the beans for tenderness. They should be soft and easily mashable between your fingers. If they’re still firm, give them an additional 10-15 minutes. Occasionally give your soup a taste test; this is the perfect point to adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, enhancing the flavors just before serving. Trust your palate!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect Ham and Bean Soup:

Ingredients

1 cup dried white beans (such as Great Northern or cannellini)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups cooked ham, diced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

All set! Let’s move on to making the soup.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Ham and Bean Soup:

Prepare the Beans

Rinse the dried beans and soak them overnight in water. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the soaked beans, broth, diced ham, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Cook the Soup

Cover and let simmer for 60 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot, perhaps with some crusty bread on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Ham and Bean Soup!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers and remember to remove it before serving.

Storage and Reheating

This Ham and Bean Soup is excellent for meal prep and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen beautifully as it rests, making it an ideal candidate for making in advance. For long-term storage, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy a cozy meal anytime without the fuss of cooking from scratch each time.

When reheating, the soup can be warmed on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it appears too thick after freezing, simply stir in a little broth or water to reach your desired consistency. I often find that a fresh sprinkle of thyme before serving brightens it back up and enhances the aroma!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Ham and Bean Soup with crusty artisan bread or a warm baguette for a satisfying meal that will keep you cozy on chilly nights. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the hearty soup. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of each bowl for added creaminess and flavor.

For a twist, try incorporating some leafy greens, such as spinach or kale, during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a nice pop of color. Alternatively, serve the soup over a bed of cooked brown rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal that’s still packed with protein.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, if using canned beans, skip the soaking and reduce the cooking time to about 20 minutes.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for thyme?

You can use dried oregano or rosemary as alternatives, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth is also gluten-free.