Navy Beans Recipe

Close-up view of creamy navy beans cooked to perfection with tender vegetables and flavorful broth.

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Warm and hearty Navy Beans Recipe featuring ham, carrots, celery, garlic, and herbs. A quick, budget-friendly dish perfect for weeknights.

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Let me start by saying this: navy beans are underrated. I didn’t realize their full potential until I found myself staring at a half-eaten ham after a holiday dinner, wondering how to use it up. My mom suggested navy beans. I wasn’t sold. Beans? Really? But she insisted—and thank goodness she did.

The first time I made this dish, it was like a revelation. The smoky ham, the creamy beans, the way the garlic and herbs tied everything together… I couldn’t stop eating it. And the best part? It’s ridiculously simple. No fancy ingredients or complicated steps—just good, honest cooking.

Now, this recipe has become a regular in my kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that feels nostalgic, even if it’s your first time making it. And trust me, the smell alone will have your family wandering into the kitchen asking, “When’s dinner ready?”

Why You’ll Love This Navy Beans Recipe?

  • Quick and Easy: You’re only 40 minutes away from dinner.
  • Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, big flavor. What’s not to love?
  • Cozy and Hearty: It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside.
  • Flexible: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
  • Leftovers Taste Even Better: Honestly, it’s almost better on day two.

Close-up view of creamy navy beans cooked to perfection with tender vegetables and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Notes:

Let’s talk about what makes this Navy Beans Recipe so special:

  • Navy Beans: These little guys are creamy and mild, making them the perfect base for the smoky, savory flavors. Canned beans make this quick, but dried beans work too.
  • Ham: The smoky, salty ham is the star. Leftovers work great, but you can also use store-bought diced ham.
  • Carrots, Celery, and Onion: These aromatics create a flavorful base that ties everything together.
  • Garlic: Adds depth and just the right amount of bite.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory elements.
  • Chicken Broth: Brings everything together with a rich, savory depth.
  • Herbs (Thyme and Rosemary): These dried herbs give the dish a comforting, earthy vibe.
  • Bay Leaf: A small but mighty flavor booster.

A vibrant bowl of navy beans garnished with parsley, showcasing the wholesome ingredients.

How To Make Navy Beans?

Step 1. Sizzle the Ham

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced ham and let it cook until it’s golden and caramelized, about 5 minutes. This step is key for that smoky, meaty flavor.

Step 2. Cook the Aromatics

Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, then stir in the diced carrot, celery, and onion. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies soften and start to smell amazing. Add the garlic and cook for another minute—it’ll smell even better.

Step 3. Blister the Tomatoes

Throw in the cherry tomatoes and let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. They’ll start to blister and release their juices, adding a pop of sweetness to the dish.

Step 4. Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Those bits? Pure flavor. Add the navy beans, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, and the cooked ham. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.

Step 5. Let It Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it looks too thick for your liking, add a splash of water or extra broth.

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Step 6. Season and Serve

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle it into bowls, sprinkle on some fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve it hot.

Storage Options:

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s thickened too much.

Want to freeze it? Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions:

This recipe is super flexible. Here’s how you can make it your own:

  • Vegetarian-Friendly: Skip the ham and use veggie broth. Add smoked paprika for a touch of smoky flavor.
  • Add Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
  • Different Protein: Swap the ham for cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded chicken.

Wooden spoon stirring a rich, savory navy bean stew with colorful vegetables and fresh herbs.

What to Serve with Navy Beans?

This dish is a meal on its own, but pairing it with a few sides takes it to the next level:

  • Rice: Spoon the beans over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty, filling meal.
  • Bread: Crusty bread or cornbread is perfect for soaking up the broth.
  • Salad: A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast.
  • Pickles: A side of tangy pickles or sauerkraut balances the richness beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use dried navy beans instead of canned?
Absolutely. Soak them overnight, then cook until tender before adding them to the recipe.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Definitely. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
You sure can. Sauté the ham and veggies first, then toss everything into the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

This Navy Beans Recipe is everything you want in a comfort meal: easy, flavorful, and ridiculously satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a dish that’ll make everyone happy.

So, what do you think? Are you a navy beans fan, or is this your first time giving them a shot? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts (and your tweaks)!

A hearty serving of navy beans in a warm, golden broth with chunks of carrots and celery.

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Wooden spoon stirring a rich, savory navy bean stew with colorful vegetables and fresh herbs.

Navy Beans Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
A warm and hearty Navy Beans Recipe made with creamy beans, smoky ham, carrots, celery, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for a quick, comforting meal.
4 Servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 8 ounces ham diced
  • 1 carrot diced
  • 1 celery stalk diced
  • ½ small onion diced
  • 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
  • cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 2 15-ounce cans navy beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Brown the Ham

  1. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced ham and cook until browned and slightly caramelized, approximately 5 minutes. Remove the ham from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Incorporate the diced carrot, celery, and onion. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Cook the Tomatoes

  1. Introduce the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes blister and release their juices.

Deglaze the Pan and Build the Base

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the skillet by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.

Combine the Ingredients

  1. Return the browned ham to the skillet, then add the navy beans, bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Simmer the Dish

  1. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Allow it to cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if a thinner consistency is preferred.

Adjust Seasoning and Garnish

  1. Taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Notes

To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the chicken broth, ham, and all seasonings are certified gluten-free. Take care to avoid cross-contamination by using clean utensils and surfaces during preparation.
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< Hi, I'm Bitty! >

I'm Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my "About Me" page for more info!

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