There’s nothing quite like a hearty Ham and Bean Soup to bring warmth to your table. This Instant Pot Navy Bean Soup is the perfect mix of rich, savory ham and tender navy beans, simmered together until the flavors meld beautifully. The ham is so tender it practically falls off the bone, and the creamy beans add a perfect texture to this soul-satisfying dish. Pair it with a side of just cornbread, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm hug from your favorite kitchen.
This recipe stands the test of time because it’s simple, budget-friendly, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, feeding a crowd, or saving leftovers for a busy day, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Ham and Bean Soup plays a key role, ensuring maximum flavor and texture.
- 1 Ham Bone with meat on it – The star of the dish, a ham bone provides a rich, smoky flavor as it simmers. The meat falls off the bone, adding tender, delicious bites throughout the soup.
- 12 ounces Ham, cubed (optional) – Adds extra meaty goodness. If your ham bone has plenty of meat, you can skip this, but it’s perfect for adding more protein.
- 16 ounces Dried Navy Beans – These beans are small, creamy, and absorb the smoky flavors perfectly, creating a hearty and smooth texture.
- 8 cups Water – Used to cook the beans and ham, turning into a rich and flavorful broth as the ingredients simmer together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Ham and Bean Soup in the Instant Pot is quick, simple, and nearly foolproof. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and tender texture:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Rinse and sort the dried navy beans, ensuring no debris or small rocks remain.
- If using, cube the extra ham.
2. Add to the Instant Pot
- Place the ham bone, navy beans, cubed ham (if using), and 8 cups of water into the Instant Pot.
- Pro Tip: Ensure the water does not exceed the Instant Pot’s max fill line. The amount of water might vary depending on the size of your pot and ham bone.
3. Lock and Seal
- Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and turn the valve to SEALING.
4. Pressure Cook
- Set the Instant Pot to HIGH pressure for 90 minutes. This ensures the beans become perfectly tender and the ham falls off the bone effortlessly.
5. Natural Release
- Once the timer goes off, press CANCEL and allow for a natural release for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, turn the valve to release any remaining pressure.
6. Final Touches
- Carefully remove the lid and take out the ham bone. Pull any leftover meat off the bone, shredding it into the soup for added texture. Discard the bone.
- Stir the soup and serve immediately.
Why This Ham & Bean Soup Is Loved
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:
- Simple & Budget-Friendly – Using a leftover ham bone and pantry staples like dried beans makes this a cost-effective meal.
- Rich, Smoky Flavor – The ham bone infuses the soup with incredible depth and flavor, while the beans absorb all those delicious juices.
- Comforting & Nutritious – Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both satisfying and healthy.
- Effortless in the Instant Pot – The pressure cooker makes this classic dish quick and easy, without sacrificing any of the flavor of traditional slow cooking.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Soak the Beans (Optional): While the Instant Pot eliminates the need for soaking, pre-soaking your navy beans for a few hours can reduce cooking time slightly.
- Add Vegetables: For added flavor and nutrition, throw in diced carrots, celery, or onions before pressure cooking.
- Adjust the Salt: The ham naturally adds salt, so taste before adding any extra seasoning.
- Thicken the Broth: For a creamier soup, mash some of the beans directly in the pot before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Nothing pairs better with Ham and Bean Soup than a side of freshly baked cornbread. The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread balances the smoky richness of the soup perfectly. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve with buttered cornbread or corn muffins for dipping.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
- Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
Nutritional Breakdown
This soup is both satisfying and nutritious. Here’s a quick look at its benefits:
- Calories: 254 kcal
- Protein: 20g – Perfect for keeping you full and fueled.
- Fiber: 13g – Supports digestion and adds heartiness.
- Sodium: 506mg – A manageable amount for a dish with ham.
- Iron & Potassium – Essential minerals for energy and muscle function.
Final Thoughts
This Old-School Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, smoky flavors of ham with tender, creamy navy beans. The Instant Pot makes this classic recipe quick, easy, and foolproof, without losing the slow-cooked goodness that makes it so special.
Serve it with a warm side of just cornbread, and you’ve got a meal that’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or simply craving a warm bowl of comfort, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Don’t lose this recipe – it’s a timeless classic you’ll want to make again and again! 🍲✨