Save to Pinterest There's something deeply comforting about a pot of Ham and Butter Bean Soup simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with the aroma of smoky ham and herbs. This cherished Southern recipe has warmed generations of families through cold evenings and busy weeknights alike. The combination of creamy butter beans and tender chunks of ham creates a hearty meal that satisfies the soul as much as the stomach.
Save to Pinterest This traditional soup has roots deep in Southern American cooking, where making the most of every ingredient wasn't just economical—it was an art form. The ham bone or hock infuses the broth with a rich smokiness while the butter beans slowly soften, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. The addition of fresh herbs at the end brightens the whole dish, creating a perfect harmony of comfort and freshness.
- 1 lb (450 g) smoked ham hock or diced ham
- 2 cups (340 g) dried butter beans (or 3 cans, 15 oz each, drained and rinsed)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups (2 liters) low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups (480 ml) water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Hot sauce, for serving (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
- Step 1
- If using dried butter beans, soak them overnight in plenty of cold water. Drain and rinse before use.
- Step 2
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Step 3
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4
- Add the ham hock or diced ham, soaked butter beans (or canned, if using), chicken broth, water, bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper.
- Step 5
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1 hour (45 minutes if using canned beans), stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the flavors are melded.
- Step 6
- Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot (discard the bone and any excess fat). Discard bay leaves.
- Step 7
- Stir in parsley and chives. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Step 8
- Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs and a dash of hot sauce if desired. Pair with crusty bread.
For the best flavor development, make this soup a day ahead of time and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or broth as the beans will continue to absorb liquid. The texture may also become naturally creamier as the beans break down slightly - this is desirable!
For a creamier texture, mash about a quarter of the beans against the side of the pot using a wooden spoon. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend a portion of the soup. For a heartier version, add diced potatoes along with the other vegetables. If you prefer a meat-free option, omit the ham and use vegetable broth, then increase the herbs and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
This Ham and Butter Bean Soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a slice of warm cornbread or a chunk of crusty sourdough for sopping up the flavorful broth. For a complete dinner, serve with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese makes a wonderful finishing touch for those who enjoy additional flavors.
Save to Pinterest As the seasons change and temperatures drop, this Ham and Butter Bean Soup becomes more than just a meal—it becomes a tradition. Whether served for a casual family dinner or as the star of a gathering with friends, this soup brings a taste of Southern hospitality to any table. The humble ingredients transform into something truly special when given time to simmer and share their flavors, reminding us that sometimes the most comforting foods are also the simplest.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use canned beans instead of dried butter beans?
Yes, canned beans can be used to reduce cooking time; reduce simmering to about 45 minutes for best texture.
- → How do fresh herbs influence the flavor?
Fresh parsley, thyme, and chives add brightness and subtle freshness that balance the smoky richness of the ham.
- → What is the best way to prepare the ham for this dish?
Use a smoked ham hock or diced ham; simmering releases smoky flavors and tenderizes the meat for shredding.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, ensure the broth and ham used are certified gluten-free to maintain gluten-free status.
- → What vegetables enhance this dish’s flavor?
Yellow onion, carrots, celery, and garlic provide a classic flavor base, adding sweetness and depth to the broth.
- → How can I thicken the soup for a creamier texture?
Mash a portion of the beans with a spoon before serving to naturally thicken the broth without adding cream.