Name: Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Fresh parsley for garnish

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Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon 🥣🥓✨

1. Introduction

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting, and hearty dish, white bean soup is an excellent choice. This creamy soup features tender beans blended to perfection, complemented by crispy bacon that adds a smoky crunch. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave something nourishing, this bean soup recipe combines simple ingredients with rich flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, you’ll find this bacon soup recipe easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

2. Ingredients

2 cups dried white beans (or 3 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed)
4 slices of bacon
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional garnish: chopped parsley, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon

Prepare the Beans

If using dried beans, soak them overnight, then drain and cook in boiling water until tender, about 1 hour. If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse thoroughly. Set aside.

Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Save the bacon drippings in the pan.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add olive oil if needed, then sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked or canned white beans to the pot with sautéed aromatics. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes to develop flavors.

Blend the Soup

Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches. For a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup.

Finish with Creaminess

Stir in a splash of cream or milk if desired for a richer, creamier texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve with Crispy Bacon

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon pieces. Garnish with chopped parsley or shredded cheese for extra flavor.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Bean Soup with Bacon

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For best results, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the soup if it thickens upon storage.

5. Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This white bean soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough. For a complete meal, serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables. The smoky bacon topping adds a savory crunch that elevates the dish.

6. FAQs About Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Absolutely! Canned beans save time—simply drain and rinse before adding them to the soup. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to heat through.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, substitute vegetable broth and omit bacon. For added flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a squeeze of liquid smoke to mimic the smoky bacon taste.

How long does it take to prepare this soup?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, making it an easy and quick soup recipe for busy weeknights.

What are some optional toppings?

Try adding shredded cheese, chopped parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor and presentation.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make this creamy white bean soup with crispy bacon, consider using high-quality kitchen tools to enhance your cooking experience:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for crispy bacon without mess, giving you evenly cooked, crispy bacon every time.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures easy cooking and cleanup for your soup and sautéing aromatics.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Ideal if you want to add grilled vegetables or crispy toppings to your soup.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker – Great for a warm beverage pairing with your hearty soup.
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange – Useful for preparing any bread to serve alongside your soup.

8. Conclusion

This white bean soup with crispy bacon is a perfect blend of creaminess, smokiness, and heartiness. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and endlessly versatile—ideal for chilly days, family dinners, or meal prep. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality bean soup that will surely become a favorite in your home kitchen. Enjoy the flavorful combination of smooth beans and crunchy bacon in every spoonful!

Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon