HAM AND WHITE BEANS

There’s something so nostalgic and heartwarming about a pot of Ham & White Beans slowly simmering away on the stove. It’s the kind of humble, wholesome meal that stretches simple ingredients into something deeply satisfying. Whether made with leftover ham from the holidays or a meaty ham bone saved for just such a purpose, this dish is a testament to timeless cooking — simple, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor.

Let’s dive into the recipe that generations have cherished, with a modern twist for easy prep and bold flavor.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and leftover or affordable cuts of ham.

One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor.

Comforting & Hearty: Feeds a family and warms the soul.

Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for make-ahead meals and leftovers.

🛒 Ingredients

1 lb dried Great Northern beans

1 lb ham bone, ham hocks, shanks, or diced ham

2 tsp onion powder (or 1 small onion, finely diced)

6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp black pepper

1 bay leaf (optional)

Salt, to taste

Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

🍳 How to Make Ham & White Beans

1. Prep the Beans

Rinse and sort your dried beans, removing any debris. You can soak them overnight in water to reduce cooking time, or use the quick soak method (boil for 5 minutes, then let sit covered for an hour).

✨ Tip: Soaking beans helps make them easier to digest and reduces cooking time.

2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional Step)

If using fresh onion or garlic, sauté them in a bit of oil over medium heat until fragrant and translucent. This step builds a deeper flavor base.

3. Combine Ingredients

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, combine the soaked beans, ham (bone or diced), onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and water or broth. Toss in a bay leaf if you have one on hand.

4. Simmer

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring occasionally. The beans should be tender and creamy. If the liquid gets low, add a bit more water or broth as needed.

🕰️ Slow Cooker Option: Add all ingredients to a crockpot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours until the beans are tender.

5. Shred the Ham

If using a bone-in ham, remove the bone and shred any meat still attached. Stir the meat back into the pot and discard the bone.

6. Taste & Season

Once the beans are tender and creamy, taste and add salt if needed. The ham often provides enough saltiness, so go light until the end.

7. Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor. Serve with cornbread, biscuits, or crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

👩‍🍳 Tips for Recipe Success

Use smoked ham hocks or shanks for a deeper, smoky flavor.

Don’t over-salt early on — ham is naturally salty.

Skim foam off the top during the first 30 minutes of simmering for a cleaner broth.

Leftovers are even better the next day after flavors have melded.

🥣 Serving Suggestions

Cornbread – Classic pairing, buttery and perfect for sopping.

Steamed greens – Like collards or kale for balance.

Rice – Serve your ham and beans over white or brown rice for a Southern twist.

Hot sauce or vinegar – Add a splash at the table to brighten things up.

❄️ Storage & Freezing

Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze in single-serve portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

📖 Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Veggie Boost: Toss in carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrition.

Creamier Texture: Use a spoon to mash some of the beans in the pot and stir for a thicker base.

❤️ A Taste of Home

There’s something deeply nostalgic about ham and beans simmering all afternoon. It’s the kind of food that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and makes everyone eager to gather at the table. Whether you’re recreating grandma’s favorite or discovering it for the first time, this Ham & White Beans recipe is the kind of hearty, wholesome meal you’ll want to make again and again.

📝 Final Thoughts

Comforting, affordable, and soul-satisfying — this Ham & White Beans dish is a back-to-basics favorite that fits any season. Whether you’re using a leftover ham bone from the holidays or starting with a fresh cut from the store, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can lead to extraordinary results.

Warm bowls. Full bellies. Happy hearts. ❤️

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