The scent of simmering ham and vegetables fills the kitchen, evoking a cozy feeling that welcomes you home. This Easy Ham and Pinto Bean Soup invites you into comfort with its rich, hearty goodness. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend lunch, this budget-friendly dish not only satisfies hunger but also transforms your leftovers into something extraordinary. With a quick prep time and flavors that deepen as it simmers, you’ll marvel at how easy it is to whip up this family-friendly meal. Whether served alongside crusty bread or as a stand-alone bowl of warmth, it’s a dish that promises both nourishment and happiness in every spoonful. Are you ready to discover the heart of your home with this delightful soup? Why is this soup a must-try? Simplicity at its Best: This Ham and Pinto Bean Soup requires minimal prep time and basic cooking skills, making it perfect for any home cook. Budget-Friendly: Utilizing leftover ham and canned beans ensures you stretch your dollar while enjoying a delicious meal. Versatile and Adaptable: Swap in different beans or vegetables based on what you have on hand, allowing for creativity in every bowl. Nourishing and Wholesome: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it’s a comforting choice for both body and soul. Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe guarantees seconds and satisfied smiles all around. For more easy-to-make delights, don’t miss our delicious meal prep recipes. Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base • Olive Oil – Adds richness and aids in sautéing vegetables; substitute with vegetable oil or butter as needed. • Onion – Provides a foundational flavor; use shallots for a milder taste. • Carrot – Offers sweetness and color; substitute with parsnip or bell pepper if you prefer. • Celery – Contributes crunch and flavor depth; omit if not available. • Garlic Cloves – Enhances the overall flavor profile; use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable. For Flavor • Tomato Paste – Adds acidity and umami; can be substituted with canned tomatoes. • Italian Seasoning – Blends herbs for flavor; use fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a brighter taste. • Black Pepper – Provides heat and complexity; adjust based on your spice preference. For the Protein and Base • Cooked Ham – The central protein ingredient; any leftover cooked ham works, or replace with shredded chicken for a variation. • Pinto Beans – The base of the soup rich in protein and fiber; swap with black beans or kidney beans if desired. • Chicken Broth – The liquid base for the soup; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. • Large Russet Potato – Adds heartiness and texture; substitute with sweet potato or omit for a lighter soup. For Garnish • Chopped Parsley (optional) – Enhances visual appeal and freshness; sprinkle just before serving. This delightful Ham and Pinto Bean Soup will fill your home with warmth and flavor, turning your meal into a comforting experience guaranteed to please everyone at the table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent, filling the kitchen with a delightful aroma. Step 2: Add Aromatics and Spices Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the tomato paste to darken slightly as it melds with the other ingredients, enriching the flavor base for your Ham and Pinto Bean Soup. Step 3: Incorporate the Ham Add 2 cups of diced cooked ham into the pot and sauté for another minute. This will infuse the ham’s savory essence into the mixture, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. You’re building a hearty foundation for your soup! Step 4: Include Beans and Broth Gently stir in 4 cups of rinsed pinto beans and 6 cups of chicken broth. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil, which should take approximately 3-4 minutes. Look for bubbling edges, signaling that it’s ready for the next step of simmering. Step 5: Simmer the Soup Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes. During this time, occasionally stir, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully and the soup to thicken, creating a comforting texture for your Ham and Pinto Bean Soup. Step 6: Add Potatoes Carefully add 1 large cubed russet potato into the soup, stirring to combine. Bring the pot back to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover again, and let it simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes. The potatoes will become tender, absorbing all those rich, hearty flavors. Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serve As your soup nears completion, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley to enhance the visual appeal, inviting everyone to dig into this delightful Ham and Pinto Bean Soup. Make Ahead Options This Ham and Pinto Bean Soup is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; this allows for a quick toss into the pot when you’re ready to cook. Additionally, the soup itself can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days; the flavors will actually deepen as it sits. To maintain its quality, simply reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth to adjust the consistency before serving. This way, you can enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of soup with minimal effort on those hectic nights! Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Variations Feel free to personalize your Ham and Pinto Bean Soup with these delightful twists that will enhance its warmth and comfort. Bean Option: Substitute pinto beans with black beans for a different flavor profile. Each type brings its unique texture and taste to the dish. Vegetable Boost: Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for more vegetable variety. These ingredients not only add color but also enhance the nutritional value of your soup. Spicy Kick: For a spicy variation, include diced jalapeños or sprinkle in cayenne pepper. It’s a great way to add a thrilling heat, turning every spoonful into a delightful adventure. Herb Infusion: Try using fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a fragrant twist. Fresh herbs can uplift the overall aroma and flavor profile beautifully. Creamy Texture: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving. It will add a rich, luscious texture to your soup. Sweet Potato Alternative: Swap out the russet potato for sweet potatoes to introduce a natural sweetness. This not only diversifies the flavor but levels up the nutrition with added vitamins. Lentil Additions: Incorporate cooked lentils for added protein and fiber. They blend well with the existing ingredients and contribute a hearty texture. Vegetarian Delight: To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ham and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add mushrooms for a savory depth that will satisfy even the most devoted meat-eaters. As you explore these variations, feel free to experiment with what you have in your pantry—culinary creativity is the heart of home cooking! For more family-friendly ideas, check out our easy meal prep recipes that will brighten your table! Expert Tips for Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Salt Awareness: Remember that the ham and broth can be salty. Opt for low-sodium options to control the saltiness of your Ham and Pinto Bean Soup. Thickening Trick: To thicken the soup, mash some beans and potatoes against the pot’s side during cooking. This gives your soup a creamy consistency without additional ingredients. Meal Prep Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare in advance and refrigerate overnight; just add a splash of broth when reheating for the best flavor. Customizable Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to swap the pinto beans for black beans or add extra veggies like bell peppers or greens for a personalized touch in your Ham and Pinto Bean Soup. Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings brightness to the soup. Garnish just before serving for that extra touch! How to Store and Freeze Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Fridge: Store your Ham and Pinto Bean Soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion as it freezes. Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through. Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup in advance for meal prep! The flavor deepens as it sits, making it even more delicious when you reheat it. What to Serve with Easy Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Cozy evenings call for comfort food that pairs perfectly with this hearty bowl of soup. Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread complements the soup’s rich texture, making every spoonful delightful. A slice of warm cornbread can soak up every savory drop. Crusty Bread: A fresh baguette or rustic loaf brings a satisfying crunch, perfect for dipping into the soup and savoring each bite with a satisfying crust. Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad, dressed in vinaigrette, adds a crisp contrast to the warmth of the soup, balancing flavors beautifully. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw offer a textural contrast, enhancing the hearty feel of your meal with its zesty notes. Garlic Bread: Infused with butter and herbs, garlic bread provides a crunchy, aromatic side that complements the flavors of the soup while adding a rustic Italian flair. Pickled Vegetables: Bright, tangy pickled veggies cut through the richness of the soup, offering an enticing pop of flavor that keeps the meal lively. Iced Tea: A tall glass of refreshing iced tea balances the warmth of the soup while providing a delightful, thirst-quenching contrast to your meal. Apple Crisp: For dessert, warm apple crisp is a cozy finish that echoes the comfort of your soup, offering sweet and tart flavors that everyone will love. Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ham for this soup? Absolutely! When selecting ham, look for leftover, fully cooked varieties for the best flavor. Any remaining holiday ham or spiral-cut ham would work perfectly. If you’re buying fresh, avoid hams with excessive dark spots or an overpowering smell. How long does Ham and Pinto Bean Soup last in the fridge? You can store your Ham and Pinto Bean Soup in an airtight container for 3-4 days. I always recommend allowing it to cool completely before sealing it to help maintain its freshness and flavor. Can I freeze Ham and Pinto Bean Soup? Very! To freeze, divide the soup into individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Ensure there’s extra space for expansion, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating! What if my soup is too thick? No worries! If your Ham and Pinto Bean Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, you can simply add a splash of broth or water while reheating. Stir well and heat over low until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about adjusting to your preference! Is there a vegetarian option for this soup? Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the cooked ham with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a protein boost. Swap the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a delicious and hearty meatless meal that still delivers on flavor. Can I use dried pinto beans instead of canned? Yes, you can! If using dried pinto beans, soak 1 cup of beans overnight and cook them separately until tender before adding them to the soup, ideally during step 4. Keep in mind that you might need to add additional broth as the dried beans can absorb more liquid while cooking. Hearty Ham and Pinto Bean Soup for Cozy Nights This Ham and Pinto Bean Soup warms the soul with savory ham, protein-packed pinto beans, and rich flavors, perfect for cozy nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SoupsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil substitute with vegetable oil or butter as needed1 medium Onion use shallots for a milder taste1 medium Carrot substitute with parsnip or bell pepper if preferred1 stalk Celery omit if not available2 cloves Garlic use garlic powder if fresh is unavailableFor Flavor2 tablespoons Tomato Paste can be substituted with canned tomatoes1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning use fresh herbs for a brighter tasteBlack Pepper adjust based on your spice preferenceFor the Protein and Base2 cups Cooked Ham any leftover cooked ham works4 cups Pinto Beans swap with black beans or kidney beans if desired6 cups Chicken Broth use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option1 large Russet Potato substitute with sweet potato or omit for a lighter soupFor Garnish1 tablespoon Chopped Parsley optional, sprinkle just before serving Equipment Large Pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsHeat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 3 minutes until soft.Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute.Add 2 cups of diced cooked ham and sauté for another minute.Gently stir in 4 cups of rinsed pinto beans and 6 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes.Carefully add 1 large cubed russet potato into the soup, stirring to combine, and let it simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes.Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 12gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg NotesThis soup tastes even better the next day. Prepare in advance and refrigerate overnight; just add a splash of broth when reheating for the best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
