A leftover ham bone is the foundation for this easy ham-and-bean soup.

Got a ham bone leftover from the holidays?

Put it to good use in this comforting ham-and-bean soup.

ham and bean soup - Southern Living

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Then, it simmers all day, producing a rich and flavorful soup with hardly any effort.

Learn how to make ham-and-bean soup.

This will become a favorite for post-holiday meals when you have leftovers you don’t want to lose.

beans, carrots, onions, and celery in slow cooker

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3celery stalks, cut into 1/2-in.

pieces (about 1/2 cup)

2large carrots, cut into 1/2-in.

pieces (about 1 cup)

1small yellow onion, cut into 1/2-in.

Ham and Bean Soup

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pieces (about 1 cup)

1large, meaty ham bone (about 4 lbs.)

Add ham bone:

Place ham bone in the center of mixture.

Cook soup:

Cover and cook on HIGH until beans are tender, about 6 hours.

ham and bean soup southern living

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Remove meat from bone; discard fat, gristle, and bone.

To thin it, add water or stock.

To thicken, blend a portion of the soup with a blender or immersion blender.

shredded ham and bean soup in a slow cooker - Southern Living

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The pureed beans will thicken it nicely.

Can I Make Ham-and-Bean Soup Ahead?

This is a great soup to have on hand, whether frozen or refrigerated, for busy weeknights.

southern living ham and bean soup

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Heat on the stovetop until hot throughout before serving.

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot throughout before serving.

Add stock or broth if needed to get the consistency you want.

ingredients for ham and bean soup - Southern Living

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

southern living ham and bean soup

Credit:Jen Causey; Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf; Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle