Ham & Butter Bean Soup with Savoy Cabbage

The flavors of this soup come together in the most magical way—tender butter beans, salty ham, and soft, silky strands of savoy cabbage simmer in a rich, herb-infused broth. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Whether you’re making use of leftover ham or planning a cozy winter dinner, this soup is simple to make and deeply nourishing. Serve it with crusty baguette slices and a generous shower of parmesan, and you’ve got a comforting classic that’s perfect for sharing.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 large stalks celery, diced

• 2 large carrots, diced

• 1 large dried bay leaf

• 2 teaspoons dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 2 quarts chicken stock

• 1 small savoy cabbage, cored and shredded (about 4 large handfuls)

• 2 cups diced ham

• 3 (15 oz) cans butter beans, rinsed and drained

• ⅓ cup chopped parsley

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• Freshly grated parmesan cheese, for topping

• Baguette slices, for serving

• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.

2. Add diced onion, minced garlic, celery, carrots, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sauté until vegetables are soft and just starting to brown, about 8–10 minutes.

3. Stir in chicken stock, shredded cabbage, diced ham, and butter beans.

4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 45 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley and apple cider vinegar.

6. Serve hot, topped with parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy with a side of crusty baguette slices.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

A Hearty Hug in a Bowl: Ham & Butter Bean Soup with Savoy Cabbage

When the weather cools down and the crisp air whispers comfort food cravings, there’s nothing more soul-satisfying than a warm bowl of hearty soup. This Ham & Butter Bean Soup with Savoy Cabbage is not just a simple meal—it’s a flavorful memory, a sustainable kitchen habit, and a nourishing delight all in one.

The Origins: From Fridge Leftovers to Family Favorite

This recipe is inspired by a timeless tradition: making the most out of every part of a holiday ham. Many of us grew up in homes where nothing went to waste—bones were simmered for broth, scraps were folded into omelets or sandwiches, and leftover ham was transformed into hearty soups.

Erica Julson’s take on this classic uses creamy butter beans, tender savoy cabbage, and the deep, salty richness of diced ham to create a comforting one-pot meal that makes the most out of pantry staples and leftovers. It’s a nod to generations of frugal, flavor-loving home cooks—and one that proves budget-friendly meals can also be truly gourmet.

Why This Recipe Works

There’s a reason why this dish is a go-to comfort food. It’s not only packed with flavor but also well-balanced in texture and nutrition. Here’s what makes it so successful:

1. Savoy Cabbage: The Star Leafy Green

Savoy cabbage is one of the most tender and sweet varieties of cabbage. Unlike green cabbage, it softens beautifully in soups without turning mushy, and its ruffled leaves add lovely body and a subtle earthiness. It also absorbs the flavors of the broth and ham wonderfully.

2. Butter Beans: Creamy, Hearty, and Full of Fiber

Butter beans (also known as lima beans) are a perfect addition to soups due to their buttery texture and mild, nutty flavor. As they simmer, they break down slightly, helping to naturally thicken the soup and give it a velvety richness without needing cream or flour.

3. Ham: Salty Umami Goodness

Ham delivers a deep umami flavor that transforms this soup into something truly special. Whether you’re using leftover holiday ham or buying a small boneless piece just for this purpose, it’s the element that ties the dish together. It also adds a nice protein punch.

4. Aromatic Base: Onion, Garlic, Celery, Carrot, and Herbs

This classic “soup starter” base, often called mirepoix, is sautéed in olive oil to draw out the flavors before building the broth. Combined with thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper, it infuses every spoonful with comforting depth.

5. Simple Finish: Apple Cider Vinegar and Parsley

A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brings brightness and balance, cutting through the richness and tying the ingredients together. Fresh parsley adds a final layer of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish doesn’t just taste great—it’s good for you, too. Here’s a closer look at what you’re getting with every bowl:

• Protein: Ham and butter beans both offer a strong source of protein, making the soup satisfying and ideal for post-workout recovery or keeping you full longer.
• Fiber: Butter beans and cabbage are excellent sources of dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and satiety.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Carrots offer vitamin A, parsley brings in vitamin C and K, and cabbage adds folate and potassium.
• Low in Processed Ingredients: This homemade soup skips artificial thickeners, preservatives, and flavor enhancers in favor of fresh, whole ingredients.
• Gluten-Free & Dairy-Optional: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-light (just a sprinkle of parmesan at the end), it’s easy to adapt for various dietary needs.

Tips for Success

If it’s your first time making this soup, here are a few pro tips to make sure it’s perfect every time:

Use a heavy-bottomed pot.

A Dutch oven or enameled cast iron pot distributes heat evenly and allows the flavors to develop deeply without scorching the bottom.

Don’t skip the vinegar.

It might seem like a small step, but that splash of acidity at the end balances out the richness and makes all the flavors pop. You can substitute with lemon juice or white wine vinegar if needed.

Let it sit (if you can).

Like many soups and stews, this dish gets even better after a day in the fridge. The flavors meld and intensify, making leftovers something to look forward to.

Make It Your Own: Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can tailor it to your tastes, dietary preferences, or what’s in your fridge.

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the ham and use a smoky vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for that rich, savory flavor.
• Add grains: Stir in cooked farro, barley, or quinoa for added texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat.
• Try other beans: Cannellini, great northern, or navy beans also work well in this soup.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a meal in itself, but it’s even better with:

• Crusty Bread or Baguette: Perfect for sopping up the broth.
• Grated Parmesan or Pecorino: For a salty, umami finish.
• Cracked Black Pepper: For a fresh kick at the end.
• Simple Side Salad: Balance the warmth with something crisp and fresh.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe

Whether you’re a busy parent, a home cook looking to stretch your leftovers, or simply someone who craves real food made with love, this Ham & Butter Bean Soup will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Here’s why:

• One pot = easy cleanup.
• Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and leftover ham.
• Meal-prep winner: Freezes beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
• Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Deeply satisfying without being heavy.

Freezer & Storage Tips

This soup is ideal for meal prepping or freezing for busy weeks.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
• Freezer: Portion into individual containers, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen on the stove.

To preserve texture, wait to add fresh parsley and parmesan until just before serving.

Conclusion

This Ham & Butter Bean Soup with Savoy Cabbage isn’t just a recipe—it’s a seasonal ritual, a family favorite, and a brilliant example of making the most of what you have. It bridges comfort and nutrition in a way few meals do.

Whether you’re cozied up on a snowy day, planning a nourishing weeknight dinner, or looking for a creative way to use up leftovers, this soup delivers warmth, heart, and flavor in every spoonful.