The Coziest Ham and Beans You’ll Ever Make

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a big bowl of ham and beans – a dish that’s simple, hearty, and overflowing with rich, savory flavor! Whether you’re looking to use up leftover holiday ham or starting entirely from scratch, this recipe delivers a truly cozy and supremely satisfying one-pot meal that is incredibly easy to prepare.

Imagine tender red beans, smoky diced ham, and a medley of aromatic vegetables gently simmering together in a deeply savory broth. This delightful dish comes together in just under an hour, making it the perfect solution for those busy weeknight dinners. It’s also a fantastic option for budget-friendly meal prep or simply warming up on those especially chilly days.

This One-Pot Ham & Bean Recipe Is Pure Comfort, packed with essential protein, dietary fiber, and an abundance of flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that only gets better with time – and tastes even more incredible when served with a side of warm, homemade cornbread!

How to Make Old Fashioned Ham and Beans

This ham and beans recipe offers a truly no-fuss and flavor-packed classic that will never go out of style. By utilizing readily available, everyday ingredients such as red beans, leftover ham, fresh bell pepper, savory onion, and rich broth, you’ll create a wholesome one-pot meal that’s both comforting and incredibly customizable. Best of all, it’s freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Consider making a large batch of this fantastic dish, savoring the delicious leftovers throughout the week, and adding this easy dinner to your regular cooking rotation. This is a recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!

Slow Simmered Ham and Beans Ingredients

To successfully prepare this heartwarming and flavorful ham and beans recipe, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

Olive oil or butter: Adds a touch of richness to the dish and helps to sauté the aromatic vegetables, creating a flavorful foundation.
Onion: Forms a savory depth and delightful sweetness as it gently cooks down.
Bell pepper: Provides a mild sweetness, vibrant color, and a fresh layer of flavor.
Garlic: Introduces a bold and aromatic flavor that intensifies as it cooks.
Cooked ham: Delivers that irresistible smoky, salty, and meaty flavor we all crave, along with a hearty texture.
Red beans: Make the dish incredibly filling and satisfying, while also absorbing all the delicious flavors.
Chicken or vegetable broth: Serves as the savory base that perfectly ties all of the ingredients together.
Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle hint of smoky depth that beautifully complements the ham.
Salt and black pepper: Absolutely essential for properly seasoning the dish and achieving a balanced flavor profile.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Provides an optional kick of heat to brighten up the overall flavor.
Fresh parsley or green onion: Offers the perfect finishing touch of freshness and vibrant color.

Steps to Make Old Fashioned Ham and Beans

Once you’ve successfully gathered all of your ingredients, you’ll want to follow these simple steps:

Brown Onions and Peppers

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Then, add the chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté Garlic and Ham

Stir in the minced garlic and diced ham. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the ham starts to brown slightly.

Add Beans and Seasonings

Add the drained and rinsed red beans, smoked paprika (if using), crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer in Broth

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.

Serve and Enjoy!

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the ham and beans into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot with cornbread, crusty bread, or your favorite side dish.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Old Fashioned Ham and Beans

Elevate your ham and beans to the next level with these helpful tips and tricks:

Sauté your aromatics slowly: Don’t rush the onions, peppers, and garlic. Allow them to soften and caramelize slightly for a deeper, richer flavor.
Use leftover ham bones: If you have a ham bone or hock, simmer it with the broth for added smoky richness. Remove the bone before serving.
Mash a few beans: For a thicker, creamier texture, mash a small portion of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
Add a splash of vinegar: A teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end brightens the whole dish.
Make it ahead: The flavors deepen overnight. This dish tastes even better the next day.

Easy Ingredient Swap Ideas & Substitutions

Flexibility is key! Here are some easy ingredient swap ideas to customize your ham and beans:

No red beans? Use white beans, black beans, or pinto beans — all work great.
No bell pepper? Try diced celery or carrot for a similar crunch and sweetness.
No ham? Use smoked sausage, bacon, or turkey ham — or keep it meatless with a dash of liquid smoke.
No broth? Mix water with bouillon or stock concentrate for a flavorful substitute.
Want more greens? Stir in chopped kale, spinach, or collard greens during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Simmered Ham and Beans Recipe FAQs

Can I use dry beans instead of canned?: Yes! Soak 1½ cups of dry red beans overnight, then simmer until tender before adding to the recipe.
What kind of ham is best?: Leftover holiday ham, smoked ham steak, or diced deli ham all work well. Avoid overly sweet glazed hams.
Can I freeze ham and beans?: Absolutely. Let cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
How do I make this vegetarian?: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for that savory depth.
Are these beans spicy?: Only if you add red pepper flakes. You can leave them out or adjust to your heat preference.

What to Serve with Slow Simmered Ham and Beans

Complete your comforting meal with these delicious pairings:

Cabbage and Noodles
The Best Easy No Knead Bread
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers
Honey Butter Cornbread

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