The Coziest Ham and Beans You'll Ever Make – there's nothing more comforting than a big bowl of ham and beans that are simple, hearty, and full of rich, savory flavor! Whether you're using leftover holiday ham or starting from scratch, this recipe delivers a cozyone-pot meal that's as easy as it is satisfying.

With tender red beanssmoky diced hamand aromatic veggies simmered in a savory broth, this dish comes together in under an hour. It's the solid solution for weeknight dinners, budget-friendly meal prep, or warming up on chilly days.

This One-Pot Ham & Bean Recipe Is Pure Comfortpacked with protein, fiber, and flavor, it's the kind of recipe that gets better with time — and even better with cornbread on the side!

At Avdaye, we add lots of tips in all of our recipes – because we are a home cook without any formal training, and we find we are more confident making dishes when we understand why it works, and what each ingredient means to the flavor of a recipe. Our goal is for even the most beginner home cook to feel empowered in the kitchen.

How to Make Old Fashioned Ham and Beans

Ham and Beans Like You've Never Tasted Before – this ham and beans recipe is a no-fussflavor-packed classic that never goes out of style. Using everyday ingredients like red beans, leftover ham, bell pepper, onion, and brothit's a one-pot meal that's comforting, customizable, and freezer-friendly. Make a big batch, enjoy the leftovers, and keep this easy dinner in your regular rotation!

Slow Simmered Ham and Beans Ingredients

To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

Olive oil or butter – Adds richness and helps sauté aromatics for a flavorful base.
Onion – Builds savory depth and sweetness as it cooks down.
Bell pepper – Brings mild sweetness, color, and a fresh layer of flavor.
Garlic – Adds bold, aromatic flavor that deepens as it cooks.
Cooked ham – Delivers smoky, salty, meaty flavor and hearty texture.
Red beans – Make the dish filling and satisfying while soaking up flavor.
Chicken or vegetable broth – Creates a savory base that ties everything together.
Smoked paprika – Adds a hint of smoky depth that complements the ham.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.
Crushed red pepper flakes – Optional kick of heat to brighten the dish.
Fresh parsley or green onion – Finishing touch of freshness and color.

Steps to Make Old Fashioned Ham and Beans

Once you've gathered your ingredients, we will use the following process:

Brown Onions and Peppers

In a large pan, heat olive oil until shimmery. Add onions and peppers and cook until lightly browned and softened.

Saute Garlic and Ham

Stir in garlic and ham, and cook until garlic is flavorful and ham is lightly browned.

Add Beans and Seasonings

Add beans, seasonings, and herbs. Toss well and cook briefly.

Simmer in Broth

Stir in broth and simmer, on medium low, for 20-30 minutes – until beans are softened, and broth is reduced.

Serve and Enjoy!

Serve and enjoy with cornbread or crusty bread – or serve as a side dish for BBQ or gameday!

Kitchen notes

Sauté your aromatics slowly – Don't rush the onions, peppers, and garlic. Let them soften and caramelize slightly for deeper flavor.

Use leftover ham bones – If you have a ham bone or hock, simmer it with the broth for added smoky richness.

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 – Flavors deepen overnight. This dish tastes even better the next day.

Ingredient Swap Ideas & Substitutions

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.
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.

Simmered Ham and Beans Recipe FAQs

Can we use Dry beans instead of ham?

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. Avoid overly sweet glazed hams.

Can we freeze ham and beans?

Absolutely. Let cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

How do we 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.

Serve it with

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Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced (any color — red or green work great)
2 –3 cloves garlic, minced
1½ to 2 cups cooked ham, diced (leftover ham works perfectly)
2 cans, 15 oz red beans, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked red beans)
3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
½ teaspoon smoked paprika, optional for extra depth
Salt and black pepper, to taste
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional for heat
Fresh parsley or green onion, for garnish (optional)

Method

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and diced ham. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors blend and the ham lightly brown.
Stir in the red beans, broth, paprika (if using), and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Let the stew simmer uncovered for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve with warm cornbread, crusty bread, or over rice if desired.