Pioneer Woman’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is warm, hearty and comforting. It tastes like a cozy kitchen on a cold day. This soup is simple and full of flavor.
The ham gives a smoky taste that feels so good. The beans make it thick and filling. I love how easy it is to make at home.
If you want a meal that warms your heart, this recipe is perfect. Today, I will show you how to make Pioneer Woman’s Ham and Bean Soup step by step.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first tried this soup during winter. I wanted something warm and easy. The smell filled my whole house.
The beans became soft and creamy. The ham added a deep, smoky flavor. My family loved it with bread.
It was simple, but very satisfying. Now I make it whenever I have leftover ham. It is a great way to use leftovers.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Pioneer Woman’s Ham and Bean Soup
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Course: Soup
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Equipment List
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Ingredients You Need for Pioneer Woman’s Ham and Bean Soup
- 2 cups dried white beans, rinsed
- 1 pound ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1. Soak the Beans
Rinse beans well. Soak them in water overnight. Drain and rinse again before cooking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft.
3. Add Garlic
Add minced garlic to the vegetables. Cook for one minute. Do not let it burn.
4. Add Ham and Beans
Add diced ham and soaked beans to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Add Broth and Spices
Pour in chicken broth. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper.
6. Bring to Boil
Bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot.
7. Simmer Until Beans Are Tender
Let soup simmer for 60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste the soup. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Recipe Tips
- Soak beans overnight for faster cooking.
- Use leftover ham for extra flavor.
- Add a splash of vinegar for brightness.
- Blend some soup for a thicker texture.
- Cook slowly for the best flavor.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup hot in bowls. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. It tastes great with warm bread.
You can also add a side salad for freshness. This soup feels like a full meal. It is perfect for cold nights and cozy dinners.
Best Sides To Serve With
Warm crusty bread is the best side. Garlic bread also works well. A simple green salad adds freshness. You can also serve it with cornbread. Pickles or crackers make a nice crunch.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat. Add a little broth if it becomes thick. This soup also freezes well for up to three months.

Pioneer Woman’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried white beans rinsed
- 1 pound ham diced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Soak the Beans
- Rinse beans well. Soak them in water overnight. Drain and rinse again before cooking.
Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft.
Add Garlic
- Add minced garlic to the vegetables. Cook for one minute. Do not let it burn.
Add Ham and Beans
- Add diced ham and soaked beans to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Add Broth and Spices
- Pour in chicken broth. Add thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper.
Bring to Boil
- Bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot.
Simmer Until Beans Are Tender
- Let soup simmer for 60 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste the soup. Add more salt or pepper if needed. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- Soak beans overnight for faster cooking.
- Use leftover ham for extra flavor.
- Add a splash of vinegar for brightness.
- Blend some soup for a thicker texture.
- Cook slowly for the best flavor.
FAQs about Pioneer Woman’s Ham and Bean Soup
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans. Add them near the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or until beans are tender.
Can I use different beans for this recipe?
Yes, navy beans or great northern beans work well. The cooking time may vary slightly.
How do I make the soup thicker?
Blend a cup of the soup and add it back. This will make it thicker and creamy.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it is perfect for meal prep. It tastes even better the next day.
Conclusion
Pioneer Woman’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is easy, hearty and delicious. The Ingredients for Pioneer Woman’s Ham and Bean Soup are simple and easy to find.
Now you know how to make Pioneer Woman’s Ham and Bean Soup at home. This soup is perfect for using leftover ham. It warms you from the inside out. Try this recipe and enjoy a cozy, homemade meal.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.


















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