White Bean Soup with Bacon
This White Bean Soup with Bacon is a cozy and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any dining table. Packed with smoky bacon, creamy beans, and fresh vegetables, it’s perfect for both a quick weeknight meal and a special gathering. The comforting combination of ingredients makes this soup a standout choice for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty soup ready in no time.
- Savory Flavor: The smoky bacon paired with savory herbs creates a rich depth of flavor that will delight your taste buds.
- Versatile Meal: This soup can be served as a main dish or as a warming starter, making it suitable for various occasions.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, this recipe offers nutrition without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite greens or adjust the spices according to your preference.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or soup pot
- Slotted spoon
- Blender
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or soup pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning, ensuring perfect consistency.
- Blender: Essential for creating a creamy texture with the beans, enhancing the overall richness of the soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 6 slices bacon (or 4 thick-cut), chopped
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery ribs, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Broth and Creaminess
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cans white kidney beans (19 oz / 540 ml each)
- ¾ cup half-and-half
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
Optional Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley or spinach
How to Make White Bean Soup with Bacon
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook, stirring frequently, until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the onion softens and begins to brown. If there is excess bacon fat, carefully dab out some with a paper towel.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the garlic, salt, thyme, oregano, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
Step 4: Deglaze with Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Prepare the Beans
Rinse the beans. In a blender, puree about ¾ cup of the beans with half-and-half until smooth.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add the whole beans, cooked bacon, and bean puree back to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Stir in Parmesan cheese along with optional parsley or spinach. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 8: Optional Thickening
For a thicker soup consistency, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cream or water and stir into simmering soup.
Enjoy this delicious White Bean Soup with Bacon, which offers comfort in every spoonful!
How to Serve White Bean Soup with Bacon
Serving white bean soup with bacon is all about enhancing the comforting flavors of this hearty dish. Pair it with some delicious accompaniments for an even more satisfying meal.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked baguette: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Garlic bread: Adds a flavorful twist and complements the savory notes.
Add a Side Salad
- Mixed greens: A light and refreshing option that balances the richness of the soup.
- Caesar salad: Offers a crunchy texture and zesty flavor to contrast with the soup.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness on top of each bowl.
- Cilantro: A unique twist that provides an earthy aroma and taste.
Serve with Cheese
- Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle on top for an extra layer of flavor.
- Feta cheese: Crumbles add creaminess and tanginess to each bite.
Offer a Drizzle of Olive Oil
- Extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle enhances the dish’s richness and adds depth.
How to Perfect White Bean Soup with Bacon
To make your white bean soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for a richer flavor and better texture in the soup.
- Blend beans properly: Ensure you blend enough beans to create a creamy consistency while leaving some whole for texture.
- Season well: Adjust salt and spices according to your taste preferences; don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add acidity: A splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving can brighten up the flavors significantly.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep any unused soup in an airtight container in the fridge; it tastes even better the next day!
Best Side Dishes for White Bean Soup with Bacon
When enjoying white bean soup with bacon, consider these delightful side dishes to round out your meal.
- Garlic Knots – Fluffy knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for mopping up every last bit of soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned seasonal veggies add color and nutrients, complementing the soup’s heartiness.
- Stuffed Peppers – Baked peppers filled with rice and cheese provide a hearty addition that pairs well with the creamy soup.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the soup, making it a favorite choice.
- Quinoa Salad – A light salad made with quinoa, herbs, and lemon adds freshness without overwhelming the palate.
- Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are always a crowd-pleaser alongside any warm bowl of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making white bean soup with bacon can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls you should avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the bacon rendering: Not allowing the bacon to crisp properly can lead to a greasy texture. Always cook the bacon until it’s crispy, which enhances flavor and texture.
- Overcooking vegetables: If you cook the vegetables too long at high heat, they may become mushy. Sauté them just until soft and slightly browned for better flavor.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving can leave your soup bland. Always taste and tweak with salt or spices as needed.
- Rushing the blending process: Blending beans without enough liquid can make it hard to achieve a smooth texture. Ensure you add half-and-half gradually while blending for a creamy consistency.
- Not letting flavors meld: Skipping the simmering step can result in a less flavorful soup. Allowing it to simmer helps all the ingredients combine beautifully for rich flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing White Bean Soup with Bacon
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container since liquids expand when frozen.
Reheating White Bean Soup with Bacon
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered pot for about 20 minutes, or until hot.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each session until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making white bean soup with bacon.
What beans are best for white bean soup with bacon?
Cannellini or navy beans work well due to their creamy texture. They blend smoothly and absorb flavors beautifully.
Can I make white bean soup with bacon vegetarian?
Yes! Replace bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I store leftovers of white bean soup with bacon?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for up to three months.
Can I customize my white bean soup with bacon?
Absolutely! Add vegetables like kale or spinach for extra nutrition. Experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preference.
How do I thicken my white bean soup?
For a thicker consistency, blend some of the beans into a puree and mix it back into the soup, or use cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent.
Final Thoughts
This white bean soup with bacon is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Enjoy this delicious recipe that warms both body and soul!
White Bean Soup with Bacon
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of this White Bean Soup with Bacon, perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings. This hearty dish combines smoky bacon, creamy white beans, and fresh vegetables to create a satisfying bowl of goodness. With a quick prep time of just 15 minutes and simple ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a delightful starter, making it ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery ribs, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cans white kidney beans (19 oz each)
- ¾ cup half-and-half
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy and set aside.
- Sauté carrots, celery, and onion in the rendered fat for about 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and seasonings; cook for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and deglaze the pot.
- Blend some beans with half-and-half until smooth.
- Stir whole beans and the bean puree into the pot; simmer for about 10–15 minutes.
- Finish with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
