Ham and White Bean Soup is a comforting, protein-rich soup made with tender white beans, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables simmered in a savory broth. It’s filling, budget-friendly, and even better the next day.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter

1 medium onion, diced

2 carrots, peeled & diced

2 celery stalks, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups cooked ham, diced (or leftover ham bone)

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained & rinsed

6 cups chicken broth

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried rosemary

½ tsp black pepper

Salt, to taste

1 bay leaf

Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika (extra flavor)

Fresh parsley, for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.

2️⃣ Build the Soup
Add diced ham, white beans, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir well.

3️⃣ Simmer
Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes to let flavors develop.

4️⃣ Thicken (Optional)
Mash some of the beans with a spoon or blend 1 cup of soup, then stir back in for a creamier texture.

5️⃣ Finish & Serve
Remove bay leaf, adjust salt, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.