There’s nothing quite like the feeling of walking into a kitchen filled with the aromas of smoky ham and savory spices. The moment I took my first spoonful of this Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup, I was transported to a cozy evening spent with family, sharing stories over a simmering pot. With creamy pinto beans that soak up all the flavors and tender chunks of ham, this recipe is my go-to comfort food for chilly days.
Not only does this soup warm the soul, but it’s also remarkably easy to prepare in your Instant Pot, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a hearty dish that invites variations, whether you’re looking to spice things up with jalapeños or keep it classic with garlic and onions. Once you’ve made this rich and comforting soup, you’ll find yourself craving its heartiness long after the last bowl is gone—especially when it’s paired with crusty bread or cornbread! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together.
Why is Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: This soup envelops you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly nights spent indoors.
Effortless Preparation: With the Instant Pot, you can whip this dish up without any fuss, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Hearty Ingredients: Creamy pinto beans combined with smoky ham create a rich texture that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Versatile Flavor Profiles: Feel free to add your personal touch by spicing it up with jalapeños or enhance the vegetable content with corn or kale.
Meal Prep Hero: Leftovers store beautifully, ensuring you enjoy this comforting dish throughout the week. Whether you’re prepping for yourself or a crowd, this soup delivers!
Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Smoked Ham – Adds depth and rich flavor to the soup; smoked turkey or sausage can be a delightful alternative.
• Dried Pinto Beans – The star of the dish, providing creaminess and absorbing all the wonderful flavors; for quicker prep, canned beans work too (just reduce cooking time!).
• Onion – Enhances aroma and builds a savory base; any onion variety works, but shallots can offer a subtler taste.
• Garlic – Delivers pungency and bold flavor; fresh garlic is ideal, though garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
• Carrots – Adds a touch of sweetness and a nice texture; feel free to swap for other root vegetables like parsnips.
• Celery – Brings aromatic notes to the mix; if needed, green bell pepper is an acceptable substitute.
• Smoked Paprika – Infuses that delightful smoky flavor; regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne can provide a kick instead.
• Cumin – Imparts warmth and earthiness; skipping it will cut down on flavor but may reduce fat content.
• Black Pepper – For a hint of heat; adjust according to your spice preference, with white pepper as a milder option.
• Chicken Broth – The flavor-enhancing base liquid for the soup; opt for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
• Water – Adjusts the soup’s thickness; use as desired to reach your preferred consistency.
• Bay Leaf – Deepens flavor notes; remember to discard before serving as it’s not for eating.
• Salt – Essential for bringing all flavors to life; using low-sodium broth is a great way to control saltiness.
Optional Topping
• Chopped Fresh Herbs – A sprinkle of cilantro or parsley can brighten the dish; feel free to substitute based on personal preference.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating a nourish-your-soul Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup that you and your loved ones will cherish!
How to Make Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup
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Sauté Ham: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add the diced smoked ham. Cook for about 5 minutes until it’s nicely browned, releasing those delicious, rich flavors.
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Add Aromatics: Toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 3 minutes, until the veggies are soft and fragrant, creating a savory base for your soup.
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Incorporate Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Give it a good mix so that all the spices combine beautifully with the ham and vegetables.
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Combine Beans and Broth: Add the rinsed pinto beans along with the chicken broth, water, and bay leaf. Stir everything together well, ensuring the beans are coated in those enticing flavors.
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Seal and Cook: Close the lid of your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld perfectly while making the beans tender.
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Release Pressure: After the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining steam. Be careful when opening the lid!
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Final Touches: Discard the bay leaf, check for seasoning, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with your favorite crusty bread or cornbread for the ultimate cozy meal.
Optional: Top with chopped fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
For busy home cooks, this Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup is ideal for meal prep! You can prepare the soup base—sautéing the ham, veggies, and spices—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, just add the rinsed pinto beans, broth, and water, then cook it in the Instant Pot as per the original instructions. To maintain its delicious quality, be sure to bring the soup to a gentle simmer before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This way, you’ll have a comforting, hearty dish at your fingertips with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep all those delicious flavors intact.
Freezer: Portion your soup into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to reheat a comforting meal anytime!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to restore the soup’s creamy consistency.
Leftover Variations: Don’t hesitate to transform leftovers by adding fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors of your Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup!
Expert Tips for Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup
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Rinse Beans: Thoroughly rinse pinto beans to remove any grit or impurities that could affect the texture of your soup.
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Cooking Time Adjustment: If using older beans, increase cooking time slightly; they may need more time to become tender.
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Flavor Layering: Build flavors gradually, sautéing ingredients well before adding broth to enhance the overall depth of the Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup.
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Swapping Ingredients: Feel free to swap smoked ham for smoked turkey or sausage, but keep in mind that this may alter the soup’s traditional flavors.
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Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze portions for easy, comforting meals later!
What to Serve with Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup?
If you’re looking to create a cozy, delightful meal experience, consider these scrumptious pairings.
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Crusty Artisan Bread: Perfect for dipping, this bread enhances every soothing spoonful of soup. Its crunchy exterior and soft interior create a satisfying contrast.
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Cornbread Muffins: Their subtly sweet flavor complements the smoky richness of the soup, making for a comforting combination that feels like home.
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Garlic Biscuits: Flaky and aromatic, these biscuits add a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the velvety soup, inviting you to indulge in each bite.
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Tangy Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette cuts through the heartiness of the soup, balancing the flavors with fresh, crisp notes.
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Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant green broccoli adds a healthy touch, its slight crunch providing a delightful texture alongside the creamy soup.
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Pickled Jalapeños: For those who crave a kick, tangy pickled jalapeños add zest and spice, elevating the overall flavor profile wonderfully.
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Chardonnay: A glass of this white wine works beautifully with the soup’s deep flavors, enhancing the meal experience with its fruity undertones.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, serve warm cookies that offer a comforting familiarity, perfectly rounding out the cozy meal.
Embrace these delicious pairings with your Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup for an unforgettable dining experience!
Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Variations
Get ready to make this delightful soup your own with simple yet exciting twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to turn up the heat and awaken the flavors with boldness.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers, corn, or kale for added nutrients and a pop of color to your hearty soup. A vibrant addition that brings a new layer of texture!
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Extra Creaminess: For a richer consistency, mash a portion of the cooked beans or incorporate a cornstarch slurry to thicken up your soup beautifully.
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Protein Swap: Experiment with different proteins like smoked turkey leg or a plant-based meat alternative to cater to different dietary preferences. Each brings its own unique flavor and charm!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and add liquid smoke or smoked paprika for that comforting smoky depth without the meat.
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Herb Infusion: Brighten up your soup by stirring in fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme toward the end of cooking for a fragrant finish that elevates every bowl.
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Earthy Overtones: Add a few slices of smoked sausage for an extra smoky kick that beautifully complements the soup’s flavors. This twist not only enhances taste but also adds a pleasing texture.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for an unexpected creamy touch that balances spice with flavor.
Embrace these delicious variations and enjoy the journey of making this Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup truly yours!
Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of ham is best for the soup?
Absolutely! Using smoked ham adds a depth of flavor that really elevates your Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup. If you don’t have smoked ham, smoked turkey or sausage are great alternatives that still provide a strong, savory taste.
How should I store leftovers?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just ensure it cools completely before sealing. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them with the date for easy access!
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup, portion it into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easy stacking. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth to restore its creamy texture.
What if my pinto beans are old?
If your dried pinto beans are old, they may take longer to cook, even in your Instant Pot. To troubleshoot, I recommend checking the beans by boiling a small test batch in water for 15-20 minutes before adding them to your soup. If they aren’t soft, continue boiling them until tender, then add to the recipe. Always rinse your beans well to remove any debris or grit!
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to use gluten-free chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of regular broth to avoid any gluten contamination. This way, everyone can enjoy a hearty bowl of Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup without worry!
Smokey Ham and Pinto Bean Soup for Ultimate Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and add the diced smoked ham. Cook for about 5 minutes until nicely browned.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 3 minutes until the veggies are soft.
- Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the rinsed pinto beans, chicken broth, water, and bay leaf. Stir together.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes, then quick release remaining steam.
- Discard the bay leaf and check for seasoning. Serve hot with your favorite bread.