Smoky Paprika Ham and Bean Soup

Name: Smoky Paprika Ham and Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups cooked ham, diced; 2 cans (15 oz each) mixed beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Smoky Paprika Ham and Bean Soup when the weather turns chilly. There's something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of soup that’s both hearty and flavorful. The blend of smoky paprika with tender ham and beans creates an inviting aroma that fills the kitchen and makes everyone feel at home. It’s a wonderful way to use leftovers, and I promise it's a dish that will keep you coming back for seconds, especially on cold nights.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-14T17:10:18.841Z

As I prepared this soup, I was reminded of chilly evenings spent cozying up with a comforting dish. I took my time to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the smoky paprika, which truly elevates the flavors. This step not only enhances the taste but also melds all the aromas beautifully, creating a base that bursts with flavor.

When it comes to the beans, using a mixture of varieties adds texture and depth to the soup. I love letting it simmer to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. The final touch? A sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and brightness.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness from the beans
Hearty and filling, perfect for a family dinner
Easy to make and perfect for using leftover ham

Understanding the Ingredients

Using good quality ham is essential for achieving a rich flavor in this soup. I recommend using leftover ham from a holiday meal, as it has the perfect balance of smokiness and sweetness. If you don't have ham, diced smoked turkey or even a plant-based ham substitute can work well. The mixed beans contribute not only to the texture but also provide protein and fiber, making the soup hearty and satisfying.

The addition of smoked paprika elevates this recipe with its distinctly smoky flavor, which is key to mimicking the taste of a slow-cooked stew. Make sure to use a quality smoked paprika; the difference in flavor is significant. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce towards the end of cooking.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Soup

Sautéing the onions and garlic until they're soft and translucent is crucial for developing a flavorful base. Aim for a golden color without browning them, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your soup. Use a heavy-bottomed pot like a Dutch oven to ensure even heat distribution, which helps in cooking the aromatics properly.

When simmering the soup, allow at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld together. You can simmer longer if you want the beans to soften a bit more. If the soup gets too thick, adding a splash of water or more broth can help adjust the consistency to your liking. I often like to let it sit aside for 10-15 minutes after cooking before serving, as this resting period allows the flavors to develop further.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked ham, diced
2 cans (15 oz each) mixed beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Spices

Stir in the smoked paprika and thyme, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth, and add the diced ham, mixed beans, and diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar before serving to amplify the taste. This soup also stores well, making it perfect for meal prep.

Storage and Reheating

This Smoky Paprika Ham and Bean Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When refrigerating, the beans might absorb some of the broth, so don’t be surprised if it looks thicker when you go to heat it up later. Just add a bit more chicken broth or water while reheating to restore the desired consistency.

If you want to store the soup for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to three months. Allow the soup to cool before portioning it into freezer-safe containers. I often freeze it in single-serve portions so it's easy to grab a quick meal later. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, serve this soup with crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious broth. A side salad adds freshness and a nice crunch, complementing the creamy texture of the soup. If you're aiming for a gourmet touch, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or freshly grated Parmesan on top right before serving for added richness.

Feel free to experiment with different beans or add extra vegetables to suit your taste. Kale or spinach can be added towards the end of cooking for a boost of nutrients without affecting the flavor. If you want a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of it, creating a delightful contrast with the leftover bean texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

Yes, if using fresh beans, make sure to soak and cook them separately before adding to the soup.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead, adding extra vegetables for a hearty texture.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

It's great with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.