Name: Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew with Potatoes and Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups diced smoked ham; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained; 2 potatoes, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon thyme; ½ teaspoon rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

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If you’re craving something cozy, filling, and packed with smoky, savory goodness, the Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew with Potatoes and Parmesan Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. This stew is a beautiful balance of creamy white beans, tender potatoes, and flavorful smoked ham, all brought together by fragrant herbs and finished with the irresistible richness of Parmesan cheese. Whether you’re aiming to impress family or simply want a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this dish is a total winner that hits every note perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various ingredients arranged neatly on a dark wood surface. In the center, there is a bowl filled with white beans. To its right, a wooden cutting board holds a rectangular piece of cooked pork with crispy skin. Below the beans, a white bowl contains diced ham. Around these main items, there are four yellow potatoes at the bottom left, a whole onion to the right, two orange carrots and a celery stalk at the top. A small bowl with garlic cloves is near the bottom left, a small bowl with white powder (flour) is near the onion, a spoon holding red paste (tomato paste) lays on the top right, and a small spoon with red powder (paprika or chili) and a small round glass container with red powder are closer to the right side. A small bowl with solid white fat sits at the top left. There is also a single bay leaf near the bottom right. The surface is a white marbled texture photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this stew might seem simple, but each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish shine. From the aromatic onion and garlic to the smoky ham and velvety Parmesan, every item is essential for that perfect balance you’ll love.

1 tablespoon olive oil: This is the base that helps soften the aromatics and build depth of flavor.
1 onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory flavor that forms the aromatic backbone.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of warmth and earthiness.
2 cups diced smoked ham: The star ingredient that infuses the stew with its signature smoky richness.
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained: Creamy and hearty, they bulk up the stew with protein and texture.
2 potatoes, diced: These add tender, comforting bites and help thicken the stew naturally.
4 cups chicken broth: Provides savory liquid to simmer everything and bring the flavors together.
1 teaspoon thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that complements the smoky ham beautifully.
½ teaspoon rosemary: Adds a piney, aromatic dimension to the stew.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the other ingredients.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving: Adds creamy, nutty richness and a delightful finish on top.

How to Make Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew with Potatoes and Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently until they become fragrant and softened. This step is crucial as it unlocks the sweetness in the onion and mellows the sharpness of the garlic, setting a flavorful foundation for the stew.

Step 2: Add the Smoked Ham

Next, stir in the diced smoked ham and let it cook for about three minutes. This brief cooking not only warms the ham through but also allows some of the smoky fat to render out, deepening the overall flavor of the stew. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the ham get slightly caramelized edges.

Step 3: Combine Beans, Potatoes, and Herbs

Add the drained white beans and diced potatoes into the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Sprinkle in thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. These herbs and seasonings weave an aromatic tapestry that complements the hearty ingredients. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors before you bring it to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Lower the heat and let your stew simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. This slow cooking melds the flavors beautifully and softens the potatoes without breaking them down entirely, keeping the stew hearty and satisfying.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan

Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the stew. This step adds a luscious creaminess without using any cream, and the savory punch of Parmesan is the perfect final touch. Serve your Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew with Potatoes and Parmesan Recipe warm, with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top for that irresistible melty goodness.

How to Serve Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew with Potatoes and Parmesan Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a white pot filled with chunky soup containing several layers of ingredients: large white beans, orange carrot cubes, small pieces of pink ham, and green herbs, all floating in a golden broth that looks slightly oily and shiny. A silver spoon filled with the same ingredients is lifted above the soup, with a woman’s hand gently holding the spoon handle. The background surface is white marble, adding a clean and bright contrast to the warm soup colors. The photo has a sharp and vibrant look, captured with an iPhone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate your stew even more. The green parsley adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that balances the richness, while a touch of heat from red pepper flakes introduces a gentle kick that wakes up the flavors.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread that’s perfect for sopping up every last bit of that savory broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the hearty stew by adding refreshing contrast on the side, making your meal perfectly balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the stew in rustic bowls topped with a delicate Parmesan crisp or croutons seasoned with garlic and herbs. You can even ladle this into small, oven-safe crocks and place them under the broiler briefly to melt additional cheese on top, creating an irresistible crust that’s sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The stew actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

You can freeze the stew for up to 2 months. To avoid texture changes in the potatoes, freeze the stew without cheese and add fresh Parmesan when reheating. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and leave room for expansion.

Reheating

Reheat the stew gently over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. To revive the creamy texture, stir in a little extra grated Parmesan right before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other types of beans instead of white beans?

Absolutely! Cannellini or Great Northern beans work best for their creamy texture, but navy or butter beans are fine substitutes as well. Just ensure they’re cooked or canned and drained before adding to the stew.

Is smoked ham necessary for this recipe?

Smoked ham really brings that deep, savory flavor that defines this stew, but if you don’t have it, you can use regular cooked ham. For added smoky flavor, consider adding a small amount of smoked paprika or a chipotle pepper.

Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth. You can add extra smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of smokiness, and feel free to toss in extra veggies like carrots or mushrooms to keep it hearty.

What is the best way to get a creamier texture?

To make the stew creamier, mash a portion of the beans or potatoes against the side of the pot while simmering. This releases starch and thickens the broth naturally without overpowering the texture.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat for a crowd?

Definitely! This stew reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Prepare it a day in advance, store it properly, and gently reheat when you’re ready to serve. It’s perfect for entertaining without any stress.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the comfort and deep flavor of the Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew with Potatoes and Parmesan Recipe to warm your soul and fill your belly. It’s a dish that welcomes everyone around the table with its smoky, savory, creamy goodness. Give it a try and you’ll soon find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again whenever you need a delicious, fuss-free meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew with Potatoes and Parmesan Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need