Ham and Bean Soup with Caramelized Onions

Name: Ham and Bean Soup with Caramelized Onions
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 navy beans); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups diced ham; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Ham and Bean Soup with Caramelized Onions, especially on chilly days. There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, and this recipe combines savory ham with hearty beans and the sweetness of caramelized onions. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it simmers is enough to make anyone's stomach growl. This dish not only tastes amazing, but it’s also a great way to use up leftover ham and provide something nourishing for the whole family.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-14T17:10:18.993Z

When I first made Ham and Bean Soup with Caramelized Onions, I was surprised by how rich and flavorful it turned out. The process of slowly caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, which contrasts beautifully with the salty, smoky ham. I learned that patience is key here—the longer you let those onions cook, the more depth of flavor they contribute to the soup.

One tip that really helped me was to soak the beans overnight. This not only shortens the cooking time but also ensures they’re perfectly tender. I was delighted to discover that a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end enhances the flavors even more, giving it a lovely tang that balances the richness of the ham.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of savory ham and creamy beans
Sweetness from caramelized onions elevates the flavor
A cozy dish that warms you from the inside out

Understanding the Beans

Choosing the right beans is crucial for this soup’s texture. Dried white beans are ideal for their creaminess when cooked. Great northern or navy beans work particularly well, as they absorb flavors beautifully while retaining their shape. If you're short on time, you can opt for canned beans; just make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider adding some chipotle peppers in adobo, which pairs nicely with the ham.

Soaking the beans overnight not only hydrates them but also ensures a shorter cooking time. This helps to maintain their integrity during simmering. If you forget to soak them, a quick soak method can be used instead: bring the beans to a boil for about 2 minutes, then cover and let them sit for an hour before draining. This method accelerates the hydrating process, so your soup preparation stays on track.

Perfecting the Caramelization

Caramelizing onions is one of the most essential techniques in this recipe, as it enhances the overall flavor profile. Be patient—cook them over medium heat and stir occasionally to prevent burning, aiming for a rich, golden-brown color. The process typically takes around 20 minutes, and you can add a splash of water if they start sticking to the pot, which also helps deglaze the bottom and incorporate those flavorful bits into your soup.

If you want to enhance the sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of sugar to the onions as they cook. This step intensifies their natural sugars and can create more complex flavors in the soup. However, keep in mind that the cooking process should remain gentle; higher heat may burn the onions, leading to a bittersweet taste that can overpower the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Ham and Bean Soup:

Ingredients

1 cup dried white beans (such as great northern or navy beans)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups diced ham
4 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting for a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook your Ham and Bean Soup:

Prepare the Beans

Soak the dried beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse them before cooking.

Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt, cooking until they are golden brown, about 20 minutes.

Add Garlic and Ham

Stir in the minced garlic and diced ham. Cook for another few minutes until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 40-50 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the apple cider vinegar, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and serve hot!

Enjoy the warmth and flavor of your homemade soup!

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, try adding a smoked ham hock to the soup while it simmers and remove it before serving.

Storage Tips

This Ham and Bean Soup is ideal for meal prep, and it stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making leftovers even more enjoyable. Simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if it seems too thick.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Properly stored, it will last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, gently bringing it back to temperature rather than boiling, which helps preserve the texture of the beans.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ham and Bean Soup experience, consider serving it with crusty bread or cornbread. These options not only complement the soup's hearty texture but also provide a delightful way to soak up the broth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving adds a fresh, vibrant note.

If you want to add a bit of heat, try incorporating a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when serving. This enhances the savory flavor of the ham and gives the dish an extra kick, making each bowl a cozy yet exciting meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans. Just skip the soaking step and reduce the cooking time to about 20 minutes.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can omit the ham and use vegetable broth, adding extra veggies like carrots and celery for flavor.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Ham and Bean Soup freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.