Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with warmth and love. Her easy ham and bean soup was more than just a meal. It was a tradition that brought our family together. Now, I’m sharing her secret to creating the most delicious Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup.
This isn’t just another soup recipe. It’s a culinary hug that brings together tender ham, creamy beans, and a rich cheese. This cheese melts perfectly into every spoonful. Your family will fall in love with this hearty dish that takes the classic ham and bean soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a soul-warming Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup recipe
- Learn how to transform a classic soup into a family favorite
- Simple ingredients create an extraordinary meal
- Perfect for cold nights and family gatherings
- Easy to prepare with minimal cooking skills
Why This Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup Will Become Your Family Favorite
Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with warmth and love. Her easy ham and bean soup was more than just a meal. It was a tradition that brought our family together. Now, I’m sharing her secret to creating the most delicious Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup.
This isn’t just another soup recipe. It’s a culinary hug that brings together tender ham, creamy beans, and a rich cheese. This cheese melts perfectly into every spoonful. Your family will fall in love with this hearty dish that takes the classic ham and bean soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Key Takeaways
Discover a soul-warming Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup recipe
Learn how to transform a classic soup into a family favorite
Simple ingredients create an extraordinary meal
Perfect for cold nights and family gatherings
Easy to prepare with minimal cooking skills
Why This Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup Will Become Your Family Favorite
Comfort food has a special way of bringing families together. Old fashioned ham and bean soup is a perfect example. It’s a dish filled with warmth, memories, and nutrition that makes every meal special.
Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with warmth and love. Her easy ham and bean soup was more than just a meal. It was a tradition that brought our family together. Now, I’m sharing her secret to creating the most delicious Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup.
This isn’t just another soup recipe. It’s a culinary hug that brings together tender ham, creamy beans, and a rich cheese. This cheese melts perfectly into every spoonful. Your family will fall in love with this hearty dish that takes the classic ham and bean soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a soul-warming Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup recipe
- Learn how to transform a classic soup into a family favorite
- Simple ingredients create an extraordinary meal
- Perfect for cold nights and family gatherings
- Easy to prepare with minimal cooking skills
Why This Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup Will Become Your Family Favorite
Comfort food has a special way of bringing families together. Old fashioned ham and bean soup is a perfect example. It’s a dish filled with warmth, memories, and nutrition that makes every meal special.
The History Behind Traditional Ham and Bean Soup
Ham and bean soup started as a way for families to make do with less money. It was a clever way to use affordable ingredients to make a filling meal. The best recipes came from using leftover ham bones and dried beans.
- Originated during Great Depression era
- Utilized inexpensive protein sources
- Represented culinary resourcefulness
Benefits of Adding Cheese to Classic Bean Soup
Adding cheese to ham and bean soup makes it amazing. The creamy texture and rich flavor make it a hit with everyone. It’s a game-changer for this classic recipe.
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Melting Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Cheddar | Sharp and tangy | Excellent |
| Gruyère | Nutty and smooth | Superior |
| Parmesan | Salty and intense | Good |
What Makes This Recipe Special
This soup is loved for its perfect mix of flavors and textures. It’s creamy, hearty, and full of protein. It’s more than a meal; it’s a way to connect through comfort and taste.
“A great soup is like a warm hug for your stomach” – Culinary Wisdom
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Ham and Bean Soup
Making a tasty ham and bean soup begins with picking the best ingredients. Whether you go for canned beans or fresh ones, the goal is to pick top-notch items. These will make your soup stand out.
Assorted beans, cubed ham, diced onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, chopped celery, vibrant herbs, rustic wooden background.
Now, let’s look at the key ingredients for a delicious ham and bean soup:
- Beans: You can use canned beans for ease or dried beans for a traditional taste
- Ham: Leftover holiday ham or smoked ham hock is ideal
- Potatoes: Adding potatoes makes the soup even heartier
- Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and celery add depth of flavor
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar or creamy Gruyère adds richness
Choosing the right beans is crucial. Here’s a quick guide to help you:
| Bean Type | Texture | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Navy Beans | Creamy, smooth | 1-2 hours |
| Great Northern | Mild, delicate | 45-60 minutes |
| Cannellini | Larger, meaty | 1-1.5 hours |
“The secret to a great soup is using fresh, quality ingredients and taking your time to develop flavors.” – Chef Marie Stevens
Pro tip: If you’re short on time, canned beans are a great option. Just rinse them well and add them later to avoid overcooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions and Techniques
Making the perfect pioneer woman ham and bean soup needs careful steps. This guide will help you turn simple ingredients into a cozy meal. It’s like grandma’s old fashioned ham and bean soup.
Preparing Your Beans and Ham
Begin with top-notch ingredients. For dried beans, follow these key steps:
- Rinse beans well under cold water
- Soak beans overnight in a big container
- Drain and rinse before cooking
A large pot of simmering ham and bean soup, steam rising from the surface, chunks of ham and colorful vegetables visible through the broth.
Creating the Perfect Soup Base
The secret to a great soup is rich flavors. Cut your ham into small pieces and cook with veggies:
- Chop onions, carrots, and celery
- Sauté in olive oil until they’re soft
- Add minced garlic for more flavor
Adding the Cheese and Final Seasonings
Make your soup creamy by adding cheese. Pick a smooth cheese like sharp cheddar or Gruyère.
| Cheese Type | Melting Quality | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Cheddar | Excellent | Sharp, tangy |
| Gruyère | Smooth | Nutty, rich |
| Monterey Jack | Very Good | Mild, creamy |
Pro tip: Add cheese off the heat to prevent curdling and maintain a silky texture.
Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to make a dish that warms your soul. It’s like traditional home cooking.
Tips for Making Old Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup Like Grandma
Making the perfect old fashioned ham and bean soup is more than just following a recipe. It’s about using the wisdom passed down through generations. Your grandma’s secret to a memorable soup is in a few special techniques.
“Cooking is love made visible” – Unknown
The first step to making grandma’s old fashioned ham and bean soup is choosing the right ingredients. It’s also about understanding traditional cooking methods.
- Use a meaty ham bone for deeper flavor development
- Soak dried beans overnight to improve texture and digestibility
- Season gradually throughout the cooking process
- Allow slow, gentle cooking to marry flavors
Success in your soup comes from patience and paying close attention to detail. Slow cooking lets the ham and beans blend into a rich, complex taste. It’s like a home-cooked meal.
| Technique | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Overnight Bean Soaking | Reduces cooking time and improves bean texture |
| Ham Bone Selection | Adds depth and authentic smoky flavor |
| Gradual Seasoning | Builds layers of taste throughout cooking |
Pro tip: A splash of vinegar added at the end can brighten the entire dish, just like grandma used to do!
Remember, making old fashioned ham and bean soup is an art form. Each batch shares a story, connecting you to family memories and cooking traditions.
Variations and Customization Options
Ready to make your simple cheesy ham and bean soup your own? Try different variations to turn it into a dish that suits your taste and cooking style. It’s a great way to make this cozy soup even more special.
Slow Cooker Magic for Easy Preparation
The slow cooker method is a lifesaver for those with busy schedules. With a few tweaks, you can whip up a tasty meal with hardly any effort.
- Prep ingredients the night before
- Layer beans, ham, and vegetables in the slow cooker
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours for maximum flavor
Exploring Bean Variety
Changing up the beans can totally change your soup’s feel and taste. Each type adds its own special touch to the dish.
| Bean Type | Texture | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Navy Beans | Creamy | Mild, smooth |
| Great Northern Beans | Firm | Nutty, delicate |
| Pinto Beans | Soft | Earthy, rich |
Cheese Selection Secrets
Try different cheeses to boost your soup’s flavor. The right cheese can turn your simple soup into a gourmet delight.
- Sharp Cheddar: Adds tangy depth
- Smoked Gouda: Introduces rich, smoky notes
- Pepper Jack: Brings a spicy kick
“Cooking is about creativity – don’t be afraid to experiment!” – Julia Child
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re using a slow cooker or trying new beans and cheeses, you’ll make a meal that everyone will love.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing an easy ham and bean soup is just the start. Proper storage and reheating ensure you can enjoy it all week. It’s a convenient, tasty option for busy families.
Refrigeration and Storage Tips
After cooking your ham and bean soup, follow these storage tips:
- Cool the soup completely before storing
- Use airtight containers for best preservation
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days
Freezing Your Easy Ham and Bean Soup
Freezing is a great way to keep your soup for later. Pro tip: Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags
- Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn
- Freeze for up to 3 months
Reheating Techniques
Ready to enjoy your stored ham and bean soup? Try these reheating methods:
- Stovetop Method: Reheat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally
- Microwave Method: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each
“The key to maintaining the creamy texture is gentle, slow reheating.” – Soup Cooking Experts
For the best results, avoid repeated reheating. Warm only what you plan to eat to keep flavor and texture intact.
Conclusion
You’ve now found the secrets to making the best ham and bean soup. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience. It turns simple ingredients into a comforting masterpiece your family will love.
This soup is incredibly adaptable. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a potluck. You can change ingredients, try different cheeses, or use various bean types to make it your own.
Cooking is a journey of love and creativity. Every time you make this soup, you’ll get better and make it your own. Feel free to experiment and enjoy the process of creating a delicious meal that brings people together.
We encourage you to start this culinary adventure. Share your experiences with loved ones and enjoy every bite of this cheesy ham and bean soup. Your kitchen is about to become a place of warmth, comfort, and amazing flavors.
FAQ
How long can I store this Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop to keep it creamy. If freezing, cool it first and use freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Can I make this soup with canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, canned beans are a quick choice for this soup. Drain and rinse them before adding. Use 2-3 cans for a hearty soup. Canned beans save about 30-45 minutes of cooking time.
What are the best types of cheese to use in this soup?
Choose cheeses that melt well and add flavor. Cheddar is a classic, with a sharp taste. Monterey Jack is milder. A mix of both is great. Adding cream cheese or parmesan can make it creamier.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, it works well in a slow cooker. Mix all ingredients except cheese, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cheese last 30 minutes to avoid curdling.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
It’s perfect for meal prep! It tastes better the next day. Make a big batch on the weekend for lunches or dinners. Store it in airtight containers and reheat gently.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian. Use smoked paprika or vegetarian ham instead of regular ham. Adding carrots and celery can also boost the flavor and protein.
What sides pair well with this ham and bean soup?
It goes well with crusty bread, cornbread, or a green salad. Garlic bread is also a great choice. For a full meal, try roasted veggies or a crisp coleslaw with it.
Cheesy Ham and Bean Soup
Ingredients
- 1 Meaty ham bone Or 2 cups diced ham
- 2 15 oz Cans great northern beans Drained and rinsed
- 4 cups Chicken broth Good quality
- 2 cups Whole milk
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese Freshly shredded
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
- The Aromatics:
- Amount Unit Name Notes
- 1 Yellow onion Diced
- 3 Carrots Sliced into coins
- 2 Celery stalks Diced small
- 3 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 tsp Fresh thyme Or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper To taste
Instructions
- Build Your Base (15 mins):
- Melt butter in a heavy-bottomed pot.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until onions are translucent (about 8 minutes).
- Toss in garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Create the Magic (30 mins):
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Drop in the ham bone, add beans and thyme, and simmer until vegetables are tender.
- Make it Creamy (10 mins):
- Remove the ham bone and shred any meat from it. Return the meat to the pot.
- Add milk and stir in the shredded cheese gradually.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
- Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding milk and cheese in the last hour.
- No Ham Bone?: Use diced ham and add a splash of liquid smoke for depth.
- Freezing: Freeze before adding milk and cheese. Add these fresh when reheating.
-
Pro Tips:
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
- Rinse beans well to prevent a cloudy soup.
- Save parmesan rinds to add while simmering for extra flavor.
- Keep heat low after adding cheese to prevent curdling.
- Thin with warm broth if the soup is too thick.
Perfect Pairings
- Crusty sourdough bread
- Buttery cornbread
- Fresh green salad
- Glass of crisp white wine
- Hot apple cider (for the kids)