Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory ham, tender Great Northern beans, sautéed vegetables, and creamy melted cheddar cheese. Whether you need a warm, satisfying dinner or a hearty lunch, this soup is an excellent choice. Pair it with crusty bread, like our simple rustic bread, for a complete meal. Looking for more comforting options? Try Sausage Tortellini Soup for another cozy classic.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup
This soup checks all the boxes for comfort food lovers. The creamy base, made with chicken broth and whole milk, is rich without being heavy. Diced ham brings a savory punch, while the shredded cheddar cheese ties everything together with a velvety finish. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham!
Substitutions and Tips for Success:
- Beans: While Great Northern beans are ideal for their soft, creamy texture, navy beans or Cannellini beans can work just as well.
- Cheese: For maximum creaminess, shred cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded varieties. Want more flavor? Opt for sharp cheddar or a blend of your favorites.
- Milk: Stick with whole milk for the creamiest results. Lower-fat milk works in a pinch but may result in a thinner soup.
- Flour: This thickens the soup beautifully. For a gluten-free option, consider using a cornstarch slurry.
Can You Use Dried Beans?
Absolutely! Dried beans require soaking before cooking. For a creamier result, soak them overnight. Quick soaking is also an option if you’re pressed for time. Just remember to rinse and drain your beans before adding them to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup is a meal on its own, but pairing it with a side dish can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas:
- Crusty bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or French baguette)
- Cornbread or cornbread muffins
- Air fryer grilled cheese sandwiches
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts
Storage and Freezing Tips
Refrigerator:
- Let the soup cool completely before storing.
- Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3–4 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave.
Freezer:
- Freeze the soup without the cheese for the best texture. Add the cheese when reheating.
- Store in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion, for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat over medium heat.
Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup is not just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly nights or cozy gatherings, this recipe is a keeper. Don’t forget to serve it with your favorite bread or side dish for a complete experience!
Cheesy Bean and Ham Soup
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced into ¼-inch pieces (about 1 cup)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups cooked ham diced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) Great Northern white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded, plus more for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, kosher salt, and black pepper, stirring well. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the onions and carrots begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir thoroughly to coat. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whole milk, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add the diced ham and rinsed beans, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly.
- Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and the soup is smooth.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
This. recipe is adapted from iamhomestader.com’s Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup.
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