There’s nothing quite like the warm, creamy embrace of a bowl of white bean soup with bacon. Imagine spoonfuls of velvety goodness, where every bite tells the story of savory bacon mingling with hearty white beans, seasoned to perfection, and topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s comfort food that wraps around you like a favorite blanket, whispering sweet nothings of home-cooked warmth.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and I wanted to impress my family. The aroma wafted through the house, drawing everyone into the kitchen like moths to a flame. They still rave about that day, and now it’s become our go-to recipe for cozy nights and unexpected guests. Get ready for a flavor explosion that is sure to elevate your soup game!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This white bean soup with bacon is easy to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner
- Its rich flavor profile will impress even the pickiest eaters at your table
- The vibrant visual appeal makes it an inviting dish at any gathering
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a starter or main course on chilly evenings
You know that moment when you make something so delicious that everyone stops talking just to savor the flavors? That happened when I served this dish at my last family gathering—silence followed by cheers!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Canned White Beans: Look for great northern or cannellini beans; they have a creamy texture that complements the soup perfectly.
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Smoked Bacon: Opt for thick-cut smoked bacon; it adds depth and richness to the overall flavor of the soup.
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Onion: Use yellow onions for their sweetness; they caramelize beautifully and enhance the soup’s flavor.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here; it provides an aromatic base that brings out all the other flavors.
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Vegetable Broth: Homemade is best but store-bought works fine; choose low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
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Carrots and Celery: These veggies add texture and sweetness; chop them finely for even cooking throughout.
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Fresh Thyme: A handful of fresh thyme elevates this soup with its fragrant herbal notes—don’t skip it!
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Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings enhance all flavors; adjust them according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop onions, carrots, and celery into small pieces while your bacon sizzles away in a large pot.
Sauté Those Aromatics: In that same pot, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened—about 5-7 minutes—releasing an incredible aroma.
Add Garlic & Herbs: Stir in minced garlic and fresh thyme; let them cook together until fragrant—just 1-2 minutes—to build up layers of flavor.
Introduce The Beans & Broth: Pour in drained white beans and vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 20 minutes.
The Final Touch: Season with salt and pepper as needed. Allow those flavors to meld together beautifully before serving hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
This white bean soup with bacon is not just food; it’s an experience worth savoring! Enjoy each bite as you relish its creamy texture paired with crispy bits of bacon—a match made in culinary heaven!
You Must Know
- White Bean Soup with Bacon is a comforting bowl of goodness that warms the soul
- Its creamy texture and smoky flavor create an irresistible combination
- Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy it all week long
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the bacon until crispy, then add aromatics like onion and garlic for depth. Follow this with the beans and broth, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Finish with seasoning to taste for a soup that sends your taste buds on a joyride.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your White Bean Soup with Bacon! Swap in different beans or toss in some greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition. Add a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness, or spice things up with some crushed red pepper flakes.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth if necessary for optimal creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use dried beans instead of canned for richer flavor; remember to soak them overnight
- Adjust seasoning gradually; it’s easier than fixing an overly salty soup
- Blend part of the soup for a creamier texture without adding cream—it’s like magic!
I fondly recall my first attempt at this recipe; my family devoured it within minutes, leaving me with only empty bowls and compliments that filled my heart.
FAQ
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, canned beans save time and still taste delicious in this recipe.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian option.
What should I serve with White Bean Soup with Bacon?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
White Bean Soup with Bacon
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
White Bean Soup with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food! This rich and velvety soup combines creamy white beans and smoky bacon, creating a warm embrace in every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings or gathering friends, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful crowd-pleaser. With fresh herbs and aromatic vegetables enhancing its flavor, it’s a wholesome meal that you’ll want to enjoy time and again.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 oz thick-cut smoked bacon, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté diced bacon until crispy. Remove excess fat if desired.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and thyme; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the drained beans and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 24mg
