White Bean Soup with Bacon

This White Bean Soup with Bacon is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Smoky bacon, creamy beans, and tender vegetables create a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while its rich taste ensures it will impress guests on special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The smoky bacon adds depth, while the creamy beans create a satisfying texture.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, this soup is perfect for a last-minute meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the vegetables or add extra spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup will keep you feeling full and energized.
• Great for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it easy to enjoy later.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious white bean soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large soup pot
• Slotted spoon
• Blender
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large soup pot: Ideal for even cooking and simmering your ingredients without burning.
• Blender: Perfect for achieving a smooth consistency when pureeing the beans.
• Slotted spoon: Allows you to remove cooked bacon easily without excess fat.

Ingredients

For this hearty white bean soup with bacon, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 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

Seasonings

• 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

Liquids and Beans

• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cans white kidney beans (19 oz / 540 ml each)
• ¾ cup half-and-half

Garnish

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
• Fresh chopped parsley or spinach, optional

How to Make White Bean Soup with Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crisp, stirring frequently. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon but leave the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the sliced carrots, celery, and chopped onion to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the onion softens and begins to brown. If there’s too much fat in the pot, use a paper towel to dab some out carefully.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in minced garlic along with salt, thyme, oregano, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute to bloom the spices.

Step 4: Deglaze with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance flavor.

Step 5: Prepare the Beans

Rinse both cans of white kidney beans. In a blender, puree approximately ¾ cup of these beans with half-and-half until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Add both whole beans back into the pot along with the crisp bacon and bean puree. Bring everything to a simmer. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low; let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with optional parsley or spinach. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Step 8: Optional Thickening

For those who prefer a thicker soup texture, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cream or water. Stir this mixture into your simmering soup until thickened to your liking.

How to Serve White Bean Soup with Bacon

Serving white bean soup with bacon can elevate your meal experience. This hearty soup can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors and provide a satisfying dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Garlic bread: Adds a flavorful twist that complements the smoky bacon.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Brightens the dish and adds freshness.
• Drizzled olive oil: A touch of high-quality olive oil enhances the richness of the soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the soup’s heartiness.
• Mixed greens: A simple salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.

With Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle extra cheese on top for added flavor.
• Crumbled feta: Offers a tangy kick that pairs well with the bean soup.

Served in Bread Bowls

• Sourdough bread bowls: Serve the soup in hollowed-out sourdough loaves for a fun presentation.

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How to Perfect White Bean Soup with Bacon

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your white bean soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for a richer flavor and better texture.
• Fresh vegetables: Choose fresh carrots, celery, and onions to enhance the overall taste of your soup.
• Blend beans thoroughly: Pureeing some beans creates a creamy texture that makes the soup more satisfying.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving; don’t hesitate to add more spices or salt as needed.
• Simmer gently: Allow the soup to simmer slowly to develop deep flavors without overcooking.
• Store leftovers properly: Refrigerate any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for White Bean Soup with Bacon

Pairing side dishes with your white bean soup can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, chewy knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese provide a delightful contrast in textures.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and a bit of tanginess that balances the richness of the soup.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer additional comfort food appeal.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant appetizer that pairs well with the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing white bean soup with bacon. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the bacon rendering: Not cooking the bacon until it’s crispy can lead to a greasy soup. Always render the fat properly for flavor.
• Ignoring vegetable prep: Chopping vegetables unevenly can result in inconsistent cooking. Make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even tenderness.
• Overcooking the beans: If you cook the beans too long, they may become mushy. Monitor their texture closely, especially after adding them to the pot.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting your soup before serving is crucial. Adjust salt and spices as needed to enhance flavor.
• Not blending enough beans: Blending only a portion of the beans helps create creaminess. Don’t skip this step for the best texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store white bean soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing White Bean Soup with Bacon

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just leave space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating White Bean Soup with Bacon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making white bean soup with bacon:

What kind of beans are best for white bean soup with bacon?

Cannellini or navy beans are ideal due to their creamy texture and flavor that complements bacon perfectly.

Can I make white bean soup with bacon vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that savory flavor without meat.

How long does white bean soup with bacon last?

When stored correctly, it stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be frozen for about 3 months.

What should I serve with white bean soup with bacon?

Crusty bread or a fresh green salad pairs wonderfully, adding crunch and freshness alongside your hearty soup.

Final Thoughts

This White Bean Soup with Bacon is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Perfect for cozy nights, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm bowl today!