20 Hearty Navy Bean Soup Recipes for Cozy Nights
As the weather cools down and the days get shorter, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. And when it comes to hearty, satisfying soups, navy bean soup is often at the top of our list. With its rich, velvety texture and deep, complex flavors, this classic dish is perfect for cozying up on a chilly night.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different variations on the classic recipe, each with its own unique twist and flavor profile. From classic ham-based soups to vegetarian and vegan options, spicy sausages and smoky hams, there’s something for everyone in our collection of navy bean soup recipes.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some new ideas to add to your repertoire, we’ve got you covered with these 20 hearty navy bean soup recipes. So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let the comforting warmth of this classic dish envelop you.
Classic Ham and Navy Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a comforting staple of American cuisine, perfect for a cozy night in or a warm meal to fuel your day. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless ham steak, diced
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ham, navy beans, chicken broth, onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Navy Bean Soup with Bacon
This classic soup recipe is a staple of American comfort food, made even better with the addition of smoky bacon. This slow cooker version is perfect for a chilly day or a busy evening when you need a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans
– 1 pound smoked bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Remove bay leaf before serving.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Vegetarian Navy Bean Soup with Kale
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Vegetarian Navy Bean Soup with Kale combines the classic flavors of navy beans with the earthy goodness of kale. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the soaked navy beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Stir in the chopped kale leaves and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until kale is wilted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tuscan Navy Bean Soup with Rosemary
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of navy beans, tomatoes, and rosemary for a satisfying and aromatic meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked navy beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and rosemary sprigs. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Spicy Sausage and Navy Bean Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines spicy sausage with tender navy beans and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as Andouille or chorizo), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked navy beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the pot; stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Creamy Navy Bean Soup with Garlic
Warm up with a comforting bowl of creamy navy bean soup, infused with the rich flavor of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine navy beans, chicken broth, butter, garlic, onion, and thyme.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Smoky Navy Bean Soup with Ham Hocks
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the rich flavor of navy beans with the smokiness of ham hocks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot, combine the soaked and drained navy beans, ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, water, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Simmer for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Remove the ham hocks and shred the meat. Return the shredded ham to the pot.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours or overnight
Easy One-Pot Navy Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy navy beans with some added flavor from aromatics and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper over medium heat until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the soaked navy beans, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hearty Navy Bean Soup with Carrots and Celery
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring tender navy beans, sweet carrots, and crunchy celery. Serve warm with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the soaked navy beans, carrots, celery, and onion.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and add thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Mexican-Inspired Navy Bean Soup with Chorizo
This hearty soup combines the comfort of navy beans with the bold flavors of Mexican chorizo and spices, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 lb Mexican chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked navy beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Tomato-Based Navy Bean Soup with Herbs
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring navy beans cooked in a rich tomato-based broth infused with aromatic herbs. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add soaked navy beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Leek and Navy Bean Soup with Thyme
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet leeks, tender navy beans, and savory thyme. A warm and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
– 1 can (15 ounces) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the leeks and onion in butter until tender.
2. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the navy beans, chicken broth, and water; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Italian Navy Bean Soup with Parmesan
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This Italian-inspired recipe combines navy beans, vegetables, and rich chicken broth with the salty goodness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine navy beans, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until beans are tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cajun Navy Bean Soup with Andouille Sausage
This hearty soup is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, combining the rich flavors of navy beans and spicy Andouille sausage. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried navy beans, soaked overnight
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 bay leaf
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the soaked and drained navy beans, Cajun seasoning, bay leaf, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Lemon and Herb Navy Bean Soup
This bright and flavorful soup is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. With the combination of tender navy beans, tangy lemon, and fresh herbs, you’ll be craving this recipe all season long.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked navy beans, vegetable broth, parsley, thyme, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
French Navy Bean Soup with Herbs de Provence
This hearty and comforting soup is a staple of French cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s day. With the added flavor of Herbs de Provence, this recipe takes on a distinctly Provençal flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon Herbs de Provence
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked navy beans, chicken broth, water, and Herbs de Provence to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Garlic Navy Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of roasted garlic and navy beans with aromatic vegetables, making it a perfect meal for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-5 cloves garlic, peeled and separated
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place garlic cloves on a piece of foil and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized.
3. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
4. Add roasted garlic, navy beans, vegetable broth, and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Minnesota-Style Navy Bean Soup
A hearty, comforting soup that’s a staple of Midwestern cuisine, made with navy beans, pork and beef, and a hint of smokiness from the bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into large pieces
– 1 pound beef brisket, cut into large pieces
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the bacon and set aside. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the pork and beef; cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add the soaked navy beans, thyme, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
7. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender.
8. Remove from the oven and stir in the cooked bacon. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Moroccan Navy Bean Soup with Spices
Warm up with this aromatic and comforting soup inspired by Moroccan cuisine! This hearty recipe combines navy beans, vegetables, and a blend of spices to create a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the soaked navy beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Loaded Navy Bean Soup with Toasted Breadcrumbs
This classic American soup is a staple of comfort food, packed with protein-rich navy beans, aromatic vegetables, and savory spices. Serve it with toasted breadcrumbs for an added crunch and a satisfying finish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices white bread, toasted
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper in olive oil until tender.
2. Add the soaked navy beans, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the beans are tender.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Toast the bread slices until crispy. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs.
5. Serve the soup hot, topped with toasted breadcrumb “croutons.”
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on a chilly night with one of these 20 delicious and hearty navy bean soup recipes! From classic combinations like ham and navy beans to bold flavors like spicy sausage and rosemary, there’s something for everyone. With a range of options from slow cooker to one-pot wonders, you’re sure to find a recipe that becomes your new go-to comfort food.