Irresistible White Bean Soup with Bacon Recipe to Savor

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of white bean soup with bacon to warm your heart and soul. Picture this: rich, creamy beans mingling with crispy bacon, all wrapped in a fragrant broth that beckons you closer. The aroma alone is enough to make anyone forget their troubles and dive right into comfort food heaven.

I first discovered white bean soup with bacon on a chilly evening when my best friend decided to host an impromptu dinner party. As the savory scents wafted through the air, I knew I was in for a treat. The laughter, the warmth, and that bowl of glorious soup created a memory I cherish to this day.

There was one time my mom made this dish for our family gathering, and let me tell you, the sound of spoons clinking against bowls was music to my ears.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• White Beans: Cannellini or great northern beans work best; soak them overnight for optimal texture.

• Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the beans.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; sauté until it becomes translucent for flavor depth.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are key; they infuse the soup with aromatic goodness.

• Carrots: Chopped carrots add color and natural sweetness; ensure they’re diced evenly for even cooking.

• Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth works well; choose low-sodium versions for better control over saltiness.

• Seasonings: Thyme and bay leaves elevate the flavor profile; don’t skip these essential herbs!

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; always use good quality oil for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, add diced bacon. Cook until crispy, stirring occasionally, then remove and set aside on paper towels.

Add Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onions and carrots to render leftover fat from the bacon. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about five minutes.

Incorporate Garlic and Beans: Add minced garlic and soaked white beans to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined, about two minutes.

Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Pour in enough broth to cover the beans fully. Toss in thyme and bay leaves. Bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer gently.

Simmer Away! : Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes or until beans are tender. Stir occasionally while you enjoy those heavenly aromas.

Finish with Bacon & Serve!: Just before serving, stir back in your crispy bacon bits. Ladle into bowls and drizzle with olive oil for that gourmet touch.

This white bean soup with bacon not only warms your belly but also fills your home with delightful scents that make everyone feel welcome. Enjoy every spoonful as if it’s a hug in a bowl!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the bacon until crispy, then add aromatics like onions and garlic before mixing in the beans and broth for maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this soup with greens like spinach or kale, or swap bacon for sausage for a different twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your white bean soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

Sometimes, I whip up this soup on a rainy day, letting my family savor its warmth while we share stories from our week—it always brings us closer together.

FAQ

Can I make this white bean soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just replace bacon with smoked paprika for that smoky flavor without meat.

How long does the soup take to cook?

Typically, it takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, depending on your beans.

What are some good sides to serve with this soup?

Crusty bread or a fresh salad pairs perfectly with white bean soup, enhancing the meal experience.

Print

White Bean Soup with Bacon

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

White Bean Soup with Bacon is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. This creamy soup combines tender white beans and crispy bacon in a savory broth, creating an inviting aroma that fills your home. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, it’s the ideal meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup dried cannellini or great northern beans (soaked overnight)
• 4 oz thick-cut bacon
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup carrots (diced)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside on paper towels.
2. Add chopped onions and carrots to the same pot; sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in minced garlic and soaked beans; cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Pour in enough broth to cover the beans, add thyme and bay leaves, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
5. Just before serving, stir in crispy bacon bits and drizzle with olive oil.

• Author: Emily Harrison
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 20mg