© Original recipe by Savor & Snap ©
Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon 🥣🥓✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting soup that combines rich flavors with hearty ingredients, look no further than this white bean soup recipe. This creamy bean soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a warm, satisfying meal. The addition of crispy bacon elevates the dish, adding a smoky crunch that balances the smooth, velvety texture of the beans. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and incredibly flavorful, making it a favorite in any home kitchen.
2. Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a vegan option
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon
Preparing the Bacon
Start by frying the bacon slices in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces. Save the bacon drippings in the skillet for added flavor if desired.
Cooking the Aromatics
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, add a tablespoon of the bacon drippings or some oil. Sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Sautéing the Beans and Broth
Add the drained white beans to the pot and stir to coat with the aromatic mixture. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add dried thyme and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Blending for Creaminess
Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer portions of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk to achieve a lush, creamy texture.
Seasoning and Finishing
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the crispy bacon pieces into the soup and stir well. Warm through for a couple of minutes and then serve hot.
4. Storage Tips
Allow any leftover white bean soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to refresh the consistency.
5. Serving Suggestions
This bacon soup is perfect served with crusty bread or garlic toasts. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch. For a more indulgent experience, serve with a side of Creamy Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta. To make the meal more complete, pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this white bean soup vegan?
Absolutely. Simply replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for smoky flavor, and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding to the soup. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long does it take to make this comforting soup from start to finish?
It generally takes around 30-40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.
What other toppings can I add?
Consider adding shredded cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
Upgrade your cooking experience with these essential tools:
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for crispy bacon and other crispy toppings to complement your soup.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ideal for sautéing the aromatics and preparing toppings with ease.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Versatile for making crispy bacon or side dishes to serve alongside your soup.
- KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange: Great for preparing any bread or side dish to enhance your meal.
8. Related recipes to try
9. Conclusion
This white bean soup with crispy bacon is a wonderful addition to your comfort food repertoire. Its creamy texture, smoky flavor, and hearty ingredients make it a perfect choice for any season. Easy to prepare and versatile, it can be customized to suit dietary preferences and served with a variety of side dishes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of warmth and satisfaction. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and accompaniments for an even more delightful experience!
Print
Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon
A hearty, creamy white bean soup with crispy bacon garnished with herbs, served hot for a comforting meal.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 slices bacon, crispy and crumbled
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add beans and cook for 10 minutes, blending part of the soup for creaminess if desired.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon and fresh herbs.
Notes
Adjust seasoning as needed. For a vegan version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg