Nothing warms you up like a generous ladle of White Bean Soup with Bacon on a chilly afternoon. Tender white beans swim in a savory broth, enriched with crispy bacon and vibrant greens, creating a dish that feels like a comforting hug for your taste buds. With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes on the stove, you’ll have a hearty meal in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend lunch. Clocking in at around 350 calories per serving, this soup strikes the ideal balance between nourishing and indulgent. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that elevates simple pantry staples into a bowl of goodness you’ll revisit again and again.
As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I can’t help but share how this soup became a staple in my household. One rainy Sunday, I found myself rummaging through the pantry for inspiration—and those humble white beans inspired a culinary masterpiece! The earthy beans, smoky bacon, and pop of fresh spinach all blend together, demonstrating how a few well-chosen ingredients can transform into a show-stopping dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply craving solo comfort, this White Bean Soup with Bacon is sure to make your heart—and stomach—happy.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN WHITE BEAN SOUP WITH BACON
Before we dive into cooking, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to assemble this comforting bowl of goodness. Each component plays a vital role in layering flavor, adding texture, and ensuring a well-balanced, hearty meal.
- Olive Oil
A heart-healthy fat that helps sauté the vegetables and keeps the bacon from sticking. Its subtle fruitiness forms the foundation for savory depth.
- Bacon
Adds a smoky, salty crunch that transforms simple white beans into a crave-worthy comfort dish. Rendered fat infuses the broth with rich flavor.
- Onion
Provides sweetness and depth when chopped and cooked down. It’s the first vegetable to soften and meld with the bacon drippings.
- Garlic
Introduces an aromatic kick. Minced garlic quickly browns in the bacon fat, releasing its characteristic pungency.
- Carrots
Bring natural sweetness and a tender bite. Diced carrots maintain structure while contributing a gentle pop of color.
- Celery
Offers a crisp, earthy note to balance the soup’s creaminess. Its crunchiness also adds textural contrast.
- Dried Thyme
Imparts an herbaceous, slightly minty undertone. It elevates the overall flavor profile without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Dried Oregano
Contributes a warm, peppery note that harmonizes with the thyme, enhancing the complexity of the soup.
- White Beans
The star of the show—creamy, protein-packed, and hearty. They thicken the broth naturally while providing fiber and substance.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth
Creates the base of the soup, delivering savory richness. Opt for homemade or low-sodium to control the salt level.
- Salt and Black Pepper
Simple seasonings that allow you to tailor the flavor. Freshly ground pepper adds just the right amount of heat.
- Fresh Spinach
A vibrant green that wilts into the soup, contributing freshness, color, and an extra boost of nutrients.
- Lemon Juice
Offers a bright, acidic lift at the end, balancing the richness and bringing all the flavors to life.
- Fresh Parsley
A finishing herb that adds a pop of color and a mild, peppery taste, rounding out the aromatic profile.
HOW TO MAKE WHITE BEAN SOUP WITH BACON
Transforming these ingredients into a soul-soothing soup is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps, you’ll build layers of flavor—starting with crisp bacon and ending with tender greens and a zesty finish.
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, ensuring it shimmers before you add the bacon. Toss in the diced bacon and cook until crispy, stirring occasionally so each piece browns evenly. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
2. In the same pot, take advantage of those flavorful bacon drippings. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the mix, stirring gently, until the vegetables become tender—about 5–7 minutes—and the onion turns translucent.
3. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and dried oregano, stirring constantly so the herbs evenly coat the softened vegetables. Let this fragrance build for about 1 minute, releasing the essential oils.
4. Gently fold in the drained and rinsed white beans, then pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a rolling boil, ensuring all components are evenly heated.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes. This slow bubble melds the flavors beautifully. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
6. Stir in the roughly chopped fresh spinach, folding it into the hot soup just until it wilts—approximately 2 minutes. The wilting process should keep the leaves bright green and tender.
7. Remove the pot from heat, then squeeze in the fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top and stir gently. Sample the soup one last time, adjusting salt and pepper to your liking.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon scattered on top for that irresistible crunch.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR WHITE BEAN SOUP WITH BACON
When it comes to presenting this cozy soup, little touches can make a big difference. Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or planning a comforting dinner, these serving ideas will elevate your bowl of White Bean Soup with Bacon to the next level.
- Crusty Bread on the Side
A thick slice of artisan bread, lightly toasted, is perfect for dunking. Brush it with a bit of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt for extra crunch.
- Grilled Cheese Pairing
Serve alongside a gooey grilled cheese sandwich made with sharp cheddar or gruyère. The melty cheese cuts through the broth’s richness and adds nostalgic comfort.
- Drizzle of Olive Oil and Lemon Zest
Just before serving, swirl a teaspoon of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and grate a bit of lemon zest over the soup. It boosts the citrus notes and adds a silky finish.
- Parmesan and Chili Flakes Sprinkle
For an extra kick, top each bowl with a handful of freshly grated Parmesan and a pinch of red chili flakes. The heat and saltiness contrast beautifully with the creamy base.
HOW TO STORE WHITE BEAN SOUP WITH BACON
Proper storage not only extends the life of your soup but also preserves its delicious flavors and textures. Follow these tips to enjoy leftovers just as much as the first serving.
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sealed container. It will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store the crispy bacon separately to maintain its crunch.
- Freeze in Portion-Sized Bags
Divide the soup into meal-sized freezer bags or containers, leaving an inch of space for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Gentle Reheating
Warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened, and crisp up reserved bacon in a skillet to add fresh texture.
- Microwave Method
Scoop a single serving into a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 60-second bursts, stirring in between, until steaming hot. Finish with a quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
CONCLUSION
We’ve journeyed from pantry staples to a steaming bowl of White Bean Soup with Bacon, discovering how simple ingredients can come together in perfect harmony. This beginner-friendly recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner on busy days. Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant greens, each 350-calorie serving feels indulgent yet wholesome. By crisping bacon, sautéing fresh veggies, and finishing with a burst of lemon and parsley, you’ll create a soup that’s infinitely customizable—try adding potatoes, tomatoes, or blending a portion for a creamier texture. Don’t forget to pair it with crusty bread or a melty grilled cheese for an extra dose of comfort!
Feel free to print this article and save it for later, or tuck it into your digital recipe collection. You’ll also find a FAQ below to answer any lingering questions about ingredient swaps, storage tips, or flavor tweaks. If you give this soup a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turns out—drop a comment with your feedback, questions, or personal twists on the recipe. Happy cooking, and may every spoonful bring warmth and joy!
White Bean Soup with Bacon
Description
Experience a delightful blend of flavors as tender white beans, smoky bacon, and fresh spinach come together in this comforting soup. Perfect for chilly days!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside on a paper towel to drain.
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In the same pot with bacon drippings, add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
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Stir in the dried thyme and oregano, allowing the herbs to coat the vegetables for about 1 minute.
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Add the drained and rinsed white beans to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
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Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Add the chopped spinach to the soup and cook until just wilted, approximately 2 minutes.
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Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Confirm seasoning and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.
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Serve the soup hot, garnished with the crispy bacon on top.
Note
- This soup is easily adaptable; feel free to add additional vegetables like potatoes or tomatoes.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a simple grilled cheese sandwich.
- White beans are high in fiber and provide a nice hearty texture to the soup.
