Honey Baked Ham White Bean Soup Recipe

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of soup on a chilly day-especially when that soup is hearty, flavorful, and packed with ingredients that warm you from the inside out. One such soup that fits that description perfectly is Honey Baked Ham White Bean Soup. It’s an ideal dish for using up leftover ham, transforming it into a creamy, savory, and filling meal that your whole family will love. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in the flavor combinations but in the way it brings together simple, pantry-friendly ingredients into something really special.

If you’ve ever had Honey Baked Ham before, you know it’s all about that sweet, smoky, and savory taste. Well, in this recipe, we’ll take that same irresistible ham and pair it with creamy white beans, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth to create a soup that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Whether you’re making it on a lazy weekend or as part of a bigger family gathering, this soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Honey Baked Ham White Bean Soup Recipe

So, let’s dive straight into this recipe! It’s one of those dishes that combines a few basic steps and simple ingredients, yet the final result will leave you with a rich, full-flavored soup that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients Needed

Before we get to cooking, let’s gather everything you’ll need to make this delicious Honey Baked Ham White Bean Soup. Here’s your shopping list:

• Honey Baked Ham (about 2 cups of diced ham) – The star of the show, giving the soup its signature smoky-sweet flavor.
• White Beans (canned or dried, 2 cans or 1 ½ cups dried beans) – They add creaminess and texture, making the soup hearty and filling.
• Carrots (2 medium, diced) – A touch of sweetness and a pop of color that balances the rich flavors.
• Celery (2 stalks, diced) – Adds freshness and a nice crunch.
• Onion (1 medium, diced) – A classic aromatics base for depth of flavor.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – For that unmistakable savory fragrance and a bit of punch.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (4 cups) – This is the base of the soup, infusing everything with richness.
• Thyme (2 teaspoons, dried or fresh) – A herby note that complements the ham.
• Bay Leaves (2 leaves) – They provide a subtle earthy flavor that will enrich the broth.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – For sautéing the veggies and creating a bit of richness.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste) – The essential seasoning to balance everything out.
• Heavy Cream (½ cup, optional) – For a creamier texture and a luxurious finish (totally optional, but highly recommended).
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional) – Adds color and a refreshing, herbal finish.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all the ingredients in front of you, it’s time to cook! The process is simple, but the outcome is so flavorful.

1. Prep The Veggies

   • Start by dicing the carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic.
   • If you’re using dried beans, make sure they’re soaked overnight, and then drain them before use. If you’re using canned beans, drain and rinse them as well.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
   • Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until it becomes aromatic.

3. Build The Soup Base

   • Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
   • Add the white beans, honey baked ham, thyme, and bay leaves. Let everything simmer for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Blend For Creaminess

   • If you prefer a smooth soup, you can blend about half of the soup using an immersion blender (or regular blender) until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, just give it a light blend, or skip this step altogether.

5. Finish The Soup

   • Once you’ve achieved your desired consistency, stir in the heavy cream (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the cream to incorporate and thicken the soup a bit.

6. Garnish And Serve

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Ingredient Insights

Now, let’s talk about some of these ingredients and why they’re so perfect together.

• Honey Baked Ham: This ham is smoked and glazed with a sweet, sticky honey coating, which provides the soup with a unique flavor profile. The sweetness of the ham balances the savory broth, and its smoky depth adds layers to every spoonful.
• White Beans: These beans, such as cannellini or great northern, have a mild, creamy texture that really absorbs the flavors around them. They help to thicken the soup, making it more satisfying and filling.
• Carrots and Celery: These classic aromatics (the Holy Trinity of many soups) bring texture and sweetness, while also providing a foundation for the overall flavor.
• Chicken Broth: A low-sodium option here is key, as it helps control the salt content. The broth acts as the base, marrying all the flavors of the ham, beans, and vegetables.

Expert Tips

Want to make sure your Honey Baked Ham White Bean Soup turns out even better? Here are some pro tips:

• Use leftover ham: If you have any Honey Baked Ham left from a holiday or special occasion, this is the perfect way to repurpose it. The more flavorful the ham, the better your soup will be.
• Soak beans overnight: If you’re using dried beans, make sure to soak them the night before. This will ensure they cook evenly and don’t take too long to soften.
• Blend in stages: If you prefer a creamy soup, but still like some texture, try blending just half the soup. This gives you the best of both worlds-smooth and hearty!
• Make ahead: This soup actually gets better after a day or two. The flavors have time to meld, so don’t hesitate to make it in advance.

Recipe Variations

While the classic version of this soup is amazing, there’s plenty of room for customization! Here are a few variations to try:

• Swap in different beans: You could use great northern beans or navy beans instead of white beans for a slightly different texture.
• Add some greens: For an extra boost of nutrition, toss in some chopped spinach or kale about 10 minutes before the soup finishes simmering.
• Spicy kick: If you like a bit of heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup. This will add a subtle spice that complements the sweetness of the ham.
• Vegetarian version: Omit the ham entirely and add more vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or bell peppers for a lighter, plant-based version.

Final Words

This Honey Baked Ham White Bean Soup isn’t just another soup-it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and comfort in every spoonful. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover ham or simply craving a cozy, nourishing meal, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and smoky ham, creamy beans, and fresh vegetables in a rich, savory broth is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.