Name: White Bean Soup with Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups white beans (canned or soaked and cooked); 4 slices of bacon; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups kale or spinach (optional); Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

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why make this recipe

This soup is warm, simple, and filling. It uses beans and bacon for good flavor and is quick for weeknights. It also makes a big pot to share with family or to eat all week.

introduction

White Bean Soup with Bacon is an easy bowl of comfort. The beans give you a soft, creamy bite and the bacon adds salt and crunch. You can serve it alone or with bread. For a different soup idea to try another day, see this coconut curry soup with dumplings.

how to make White Bean Soup with Bacon

Make this soup in one pot. Cook the bacon first for a deep, smoky flavor. Then use the bacon drippings to soften the onion and garlic so the soup tastes rich. Add beans and broth, simmer to blend the flavors, and add greens at the end if you like. For more soup ideas that pair well with simple bowls, you might like these easy potato soup recipes.

Ingredients :

2 cups white beans (canned or soaked and cooked), 4 slices of bacon, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, 1 teaspoon thyme, Salt and pepper to taste, 2 cups kale or spinach (optional), Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Directions :

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and crumble, leaving the drippings in the pot.
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for another minute.
Add the beans and broth to the pot, bringing to a simmer.
Cook for 20-30 minutes to blend the flavors, adding salt and pepper to taste.
If using, stir in the kale or spinach and cook until wilted.
Serve hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

how to serve White Bean Soup with Bacon

Serve hot in bowls. Top with the crumbled bacon. A slice of crusty bread or a simple salad goes well with this soup. A little lemon juice brightens the flavor at the end.

how to store White Bean Soup with Bacon

Cool the soup to room temperature. Put it in airtight containers. Keep in the fridge for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

tips to make White Bean Soup with Bacon

Use good bacon for best taste. Save the drippings to cook the onion for more depth. If you use canned beans, rinse them to remove excess salt. Add greens at the end so they stay bright. For more bean ideas and a different bean casserole, try this black bean quinoa fiesta casserole.

variation (if any)

Make it vegetarian: skip the bacon and use olive oil and smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Add sausage instead of bacon for a heartier meal.
Blend half the soup for a creamier texture, leaving some beans whole.

FAQs

Q: Can I use dried beans?
A: Yes. Soak and cook them first, or use a pressure cooker. Cook until tender before adding to the soup.

Q: Can I use ham instead of bacon?
A: Yes. Ham works well and gives a milder, smoky taste.

Q: Is this soup freezer friendly?
A: Yes. Freeze in portions. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Q: Can I make this low sodium?
A: Use low-sodium broth and rinse canned beans well. Taste before adding salt.

Q: How long does it take to make?
A: About 30–40 minutes if using canned beans.

Conclusion

For a tested version with step-by-step tips, see this recipe for White Bean Soup With Bacon – Simply Recipes. For another take with similar flavors and presentation ideas, check White Bean Soup with Bacon | The Modern Proper.