Instant Pot Ham Bean Soup: 6 Hearty Steps to Comfort

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Ham Bean Soup is a delightful comfort food that warms my heart and soul, especially during chilly days. The Instant Pot version of this classic dish delivers a cozy, hearty soup filled with tender beans and a rich smoky broth in record time. With its savory flavor and nutritious ingredients, it has become a staple in my home. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Ham Bean Soup

This ham and bean soup is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience. Here are several reasons why it will become your favorite:

Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, you can prepare this hearty ham bean soup in just 90 minutes.
Nutritious: Packed with protein from the beans and ham, it offers a healthy meal option.
Flavorful: The combination of spices and vegetables creates a rich, smoky flavor.
Versatile: This homemade ham bean soup can easily be adjusted to suit your taste, adding vegetables or spices as you prefer.
Comforting: It’s a warming dish perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home.
Affordable: Utilizing leftover ham and pantry staples makes it a budget-friendly option.

Ingredients for Ham Bean Soup

Gather these items:

½ tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 small yellow onion (minced)
2 stalks celery (thinly sliced)
2 large peeled carrots (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups low-sodium chicken stock (or additional water)
4 cups water
2 cups dried white northern beans (rinsed and sorted)
2 dried bay leaves
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves)
8 ounces tomato sauce (optional)
1 ham bone (or smoked ham hock)
1-2 teaspoons seasoned salt

How to Make Ham Bean Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Turn the Instant Pot to sauté, add ½ tablespoon oil, and let briefly heat. Once heated, add onions, celery, and carrots and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until onions have become soft and translucent. Once the onion has softened, add in garlic and sauté for another 30-60 seconds until just aromatic. Hit Cancel to turn the Instant Pot OFF.
Step 2: Add 2 cups of chicken stock (or additional water) into the inner pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the inner pot.
Step 3: Add 4 cups of water, rinsed beans, 2 bay leaves, 2 sprigs of thyme, and 1 teaspoon pepper to Instant Pot. Nestle the ham bone inside the inner pot and top with 8 ounces of tomato sauce (if using).
Step 4: Place lid on pressure cooker and turn vent knob to sealed. Set cook time to 45 minutes on HIGH pressure. (Hit manual/pressure cook button and then use +/- keys to adjust time to 45 minutes).
Step 5: After the cooking time has elapsed, let the pressure release naturally. This can take 15-20 minutes. Open the lid and remove ham bone, bay leaf, and thyme sprigs.
Step 6: If desired, pick off any remaining bits of meat from ham bone and stir back into the soup, along with 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt. Give the soup a taste and add up to an additional 1 teaspoon seasoned salt if needed.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ham Bean Soup

Keep these in mind:

Adjust seasoned salt to taste based on your preference.
Feel free to add vegetables like kale or spinach for added nutrition.
Tomato sauce is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor to the soup.
Use leftover ham for a more economical and flavorful meal.

Best Ways to Serve Ham Bean Soup

This comforting ham and bean soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with:

Crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
A fresh green salad to balance the hearty flavors.
Shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top for extra richness.

How to Store and Reheat Ham Bean Soup

To store, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Bean Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Ham Bean Soup?

The secret lies in using a well-cooked ham bone, which adds a deep, smoky flavor to the soup. Additionally, the balance of spices really enhances the overall taste, making it a hearty ham bean soup.

Can I make Ham Bean Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This ham and beans soup recipe is ideal for make-ahead meals. Prepare it in advance, and the flavors will deepen as it sits in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ham Bean Soup?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the beans are rinsed well and that you don’t skip the sautéing step, as this builds flavor. Using low-sodium broth is also key to controlling the saltiness of the dish.

Variations of Ham Bean Soup You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:

Add ham bean soup with vegetables like spinach or potatoes for extra nutrition.
Make a slow cooker ham bean soup version by following the same steps and cooking on low for 8 hours.
For a spicy kick, incorporate jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
Try a healthy ham and bean soup by using turkey or chicken instead of pork.

This traditional ham and bean soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Stuffed Banana Pepper Soup or Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar. You can also explore Vegetable Mei Fun Recipe for a delightful twist!