The Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup is everything you need for a comforting, satisfying meal with minimal effort. It takes leftover ham and pantry staples like beans and veggies, transforming them into a flavorful bowl of comfort that’s perfect for any day of the week. The pressure cooker does all the heavy lifting, delivering a slow-cooked taste in a fraction of the time. This soup is not only a smart way to use up holiday ham but also a hearty, budget-friendly staple that everyone loves. With its smoky, savory broth and tender beans, each spoonful delivers cozy, home-cooked vibes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a reliable go-to for nourishment and flavor.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 yellow onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 carrots, peeled and sliced
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3 celery stalks, chopped
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 bay leaf
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1 (20 oz) ham hock or leftover ham bone
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1 lb cooked ham, diced
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1 lb dried great northern beans, rinsed and sorted
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6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions:
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Turn your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add olive oil.
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Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
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Stir in thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf.
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Add ham hock (or ham bone), diced ham, beans, and chicken broth.
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Seal the Instant Pot lid, set to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode for 45 minutes.
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Allow pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
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Carefully remove the ham hock. If using, shred any meat from the bone and return it to the soup.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Stir in fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup: A Timeless Comfort Food Reinvented
When the days grow colder and the craving for comfort food kicks in, there’s nothing quite like a big bowl of ham and bean soup. Rich, savory, and soul-warming, this classic dish has stood the test of time in kitchens around the world. But thanks to modern kitchen technology especially the Instant Pot this traditionally slow-simmered soup is now accessible in a fraction of the time.
A Little History Behind Ham and Bean Soup
Ham and bean soup has its roots in resourcefulness. Dating back centuries, it was a staple dish in many households due to its affordability, simple ingredients, and nourishing qualities. In the U.S., it became particularly associated with post-holiday meals, when leftover ham bones were turned into flavorful soups that could stretch for several days.
The addition of white beans (commonly navy, great northern, or cannellini) provided both substance and creaminess. The soup was not only hearty and filling but also economical perfect for families trying to make the most out of every ingredient.
Why Use the Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot revolutionized home cooking by combining the benefits of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, sauté pan, and more in one appliance. Traditionally, ham and bean soup required hours of stovetop simmering or even an overnight soak for dried beans. But with the Instant Pot, you can skip soaking and still achieve soft, tender beans and deeply developed flavors in under an hour.
This makes it ideal for weeknight dinners or impromptu comfort food cravings. And unlike stove cooking, the Instant Pot frees you from constant supervision, allowing you to set it and walk away while it works its magic.
Nutritional Benefits
Ham and bean soup is more than just a comfort dish it’s packed with nutrients and can be a healthy addition to your meal rotation:
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Protein-Rich: Thanks to the ham and beans, this soup is high in protein, which helps support muscle repair and keeps you feeling full longer.
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Fiber-Packed: Beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regulating blood sugar levels.
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Low in Fat (Depending on Your Ham Choice): You can control the fat content by trimming visible fat off your ham or using leaner cuts.
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Loaded with Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions add important vitamins and minerals to the mix, including beta-carotene and antioxidants.
If you’re looking for a heart-healthy, nutrient-dense soup that doesn’t compromise on taste, this is a fantastic choice.
Ways to Customize the Soup
One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. While the base of ham, beans, and vegetables remains constant, there are numerous ways to put your personal spin on it:
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Add Greens: Toss in a handful of kale or spinach toward the end of cooking for a nutritional boost.
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Make it Spicy: A pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños can add a little heat.
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Switch the Beans: Try black-eyed peas, pinto beans, or a bean medley to mix things up.
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Use Smoked Turkey Instead of Ham: A great alternative for those who don’t eat pork or are looking for a leaner option.
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Puree for Creaminess: For a thicker, stew-like consistency, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
Ideal Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Ham and bean soup is a complete meal on its own, but a few thoughtful accompaniments can elevate the experience:
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Crusty Bread or Cornbread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the broth.
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A Side Salad: Something green and crisp balances the richness of the soup.
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Pickles or Pickled Onions: Add a tangy contrast that cuts through the smoky depth of the soup.
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Shredded Cheese or Sour Cream: For those who like a touch of creaminess on top.
Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Ham and bean soup is a dream when it comes to meal prepping and storing:
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
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Freezer: This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
In fact, many people purposely make a double batch just to have leftovers on hand for busy days.
Perfect for All Seasons
Although ham and bean soup is often associated with colder months, it’s a great meal year-round. Its rich, smoky flavors satisfy comfort food cravings any time of year, and it’s an especially smart way to use up Easter or holiday ham leftovers.
Plus, since it relies on pantry staples and basic produce, you don’t need fancy or seasonal ingredients to make it work making it an ideal go-to meal for any weeknight.
Conclusion:
Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup is a dish that checks all the boxes: comforting, economical, customizable, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family, looking to meal prep for the week, or just need something to warm you up after a long day, this soup delivers.
It’s a nostalgic favorite made better with modern convenience slow-cooked flavor in a fraction of the time. And with a few small tweaks, you can make it your own every time. Keep this recipe in your rotation, and you’ll always have a way to turn leftovers and pantry staples into something truly special.