If you’re craving a cozy, nourishing soup that’s both simple and deeply satisfying, this Ham & Red Lentil Soup is a wonderful place to start.

Made with pantry staples and a meaty ham bone, this soup is hearty without feeling heavy. Red lentils cook down as they simmer, creating a naturally creamy texture, no dairy or flour needed. The result is a comforting, protein-rich meal that feels hearty and wholesome. Perfect for cooler days, busy weeks, or easy meal prep.

Whether you make it in the Instant Pot or let it gently cook in the slow cooker, this is the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and perfect for using up that leftover holiday ham.

What You’ll Love About This Soup

• Pantry Staples: A cozy, protein-rich meal made with pantry staples.
• Hearty: Naturally thick and satisfying thanks to red lentils.
• Repurpose Leftover Ham Bone: Easy way to use a leftover meaty ham bone from holidays or entertaining.
• Flexible: Make it in the Instant Pot or slow cooker.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day and freezer friendly.

Nutritional Benefits of Red Lentils

Red lentils are one of those quiet pantry staples that offer a lot of nutritional value with very little effort. They’re naturally high in plant-based protein and fiber, which helps support steady energy levels and keeps you feeling full and satisfied after a meal.

Unlike green or brown lentils, red lentils cook quickly and break down as they simmer, creating a soft, creamy texture that’s especially comforting in soups. This makes them ideal for adding body and richness without the need for cream or thickeners.

Red lentils are also a good source of iron, folate, and magnesium, nutrients that support energy production, circulation, and overall wellness. Because they’re naturally gluten-free and easy to digest, they work well for a wide range of dietary needs. Win-win.

Ingredients For Ham and Red Lentil Soup

• Red lentils – Cook quickly and break down for a creamy texture
• Ham bone – Adds deep, savory flavor to the broth. Save a cup of diced ham to
• Onions, carrots, and celery – A classic, balanced base for the soup
• Tomato paste – Adds richness and pairs with the lentils
• Fresh or dried thyme – Brings warmth and earthiness
• Cayenne – Just enough heat to wake everything up
• Parsley – A fresh finish that brightens the entire dish with a pop of color

(See printable recipe card below for full ingredient amounts)

How To Make Ham And Red Lentil Soup

1. Sauté: Press the sauté button on the Instant Pot. Add the oil, onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add remaining ingredients: Add the water, ham bone, red lentils, thyme, tomato paste, black pepper, cayenne, and salt to the pot. Stir well.
3. Pressure cook: Secure the lid, close the pressure valve, and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes.
4. Natural release: Allow the pressure to release naturally.
5. Finish the soup: Remove the ham bone. Once cool enough to handle, pull the meat from the bone and return it to the pot.
6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with chopped ham pieces and fresh parsley.

Slow Cooker Method Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
3. Remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and return it to the soup.
4. Serve topped with chopped ham and fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

• Extra richness: Finish with a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
• More heat: Add additional cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Creamier texture: Lightly mash some of the lentils with a spoon or use split red lentils.
• Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully.

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