Smoked ham and white bean soup

Name: Smoked ham and white bean soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Québécoise
Ingredients: 1 yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 celery stalks, sliced; 2 carrots, diced; 4 garlic cloves, finely minced; 3 tbsp (45 ml) olive oil; About 2 cups cooked smoked ham, diced; 2 cans (2 x 540 ml) white beans, rinsed and drained; 10 cups (2.5 liters) chicken broth; 1½ cups (375 ml) freshly grated Parmesan cheese; ½ tsp (2.5 ml) dried thyme; ½ tsp (2.5 ml) dried rosemary; Salt and freshly ground pepper

Preparation 10 min
Cooking 25 min
Servings 4 to 6
Freezing Absolutely

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Ingredients
Preparation
Comments

🥣 Comfort food that comes together fast

This is the kind of soup that delivers big comfort with very little effort. Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a result that feels hearty, cozy and deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a relaxed lunch, or a pot that can simmer gently while everything else slows down.

The smoked ham brings depth and saltiness, the white beans add body and creaminess, and the Parmesan ties everything together with richness. A few spoonfuls mashed directly in the pot give the soup a thicker texture without turning it into a purée. Easy, reliable and exactly what you want when you need something warm and filling.

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Fireworks in your mouth!

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Tips & tricks for smoked ham and white bean soup 🥣

✅ Texture control
Mashing only part of the soup keeps it hearty while naturally thickening the broth.

✅ Make-ahead
This soup tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld.

✅ Storage
Keeps up to 4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

✅ Freezing
Freezing is recommended, but the texture of the beans changes when thawed.

✅ Cheese choice
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly and adds better depth than pre-grated cheese.

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Ingredients

1 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 celery stalks, sliced
2 carrots, diced
4 garlic cloves, finely minced
3 tbsp (45 ml) olive oil
About 2 cups cooked smoked ham, diced
2 cans (2 x 540 ml) white beans, rinsed and drained
10 cups (2.5 liters) chicken broth
1½ cups (375 ml) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp (2.5 ml) dried thyme
½ tsp (2.5 ml) dried rosemary
Salt and freshly ground pepper

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Preparation

In a large pot set over medium heat, add the onion, celery, carrots and garlic, then drizzle with olive oil. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the smoked ham and cook for 3 to 4 minutes to warm it through and develop flavor.
Add the white beans, chicken broth, grated Parmesan, thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Using a potato masher, give the soup 4 to 5 quick presses to mash part of it directly in the pot, thickening the texture while keeping plenty of chunks. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, but they must be cooked beforehand. Dried beans require soaking and a full cooking step before being added to the soup, otherwise they won’t become tender within the recipe’s cooking time. For a quick and efficient version, canned beans remain the best option.

Yes. Cooked chicken, prosciutto, or even a smoked sausage can be used instead of the ham.

Yes… but why? Parmesan adds richness and depth. I’d be tempted to add even more!

Our sommeliers suggest

Badenhorst Secateurs Chenin Blanc Swartland 2025

South Africa

With smoked ham and white bean soup, Badenhorst Secateurs Chenin Blanc from Swartland pairs beautifully thanks to its mineral depth and satisfying, food-friendly texture. Aromas of ripe apple and honey bring roundness that complements the Parmesan and beans, while its natural freshness balances the smoky character of the ham. A comforting, cohesive pairing that supports the soup without weighing it down. See the product

Ta Moins Forte, 3.8%

Lagabière

With smoked ham and white bean soup, a low-alcohol Québec New England–style IPA brings bright citrus and tropical fruit notes that lift the dish from the first sip. Its silky mouthfeel matches the richness of the beans and Parmesan, while its fruity freshness balances the smoky ham, creating an easygoing pairing that works even at brunch. See the product

*Pairings are suggestions. If you can't find the exact product, substitute for the same type of beer or varietal blend from the same region. Feel free to ask a consultant for help!