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 bacon, cooked until crispy; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Extra herbs for garnish

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Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon 🥣🥓✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and indulgent white bean soup, look no further. This creamy bean soup is bursting with flavors and topped with crispy bacon for that perfect savory crunch. Whether you’re seeking a comforting dinner or a quick lunch, this bacon soup recipe delivers creamy goodness and satisfying textures in every spoonful. Rich, velvety, and full of wholesome ingredients, this comfort soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

2. Ingredients Needed for Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon

2 cans of cannellini beans (or any white beans), drained and rinsed
4 slices of crispy bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for dairy-free version

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Bean Soup

Prepare the Bacon and Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Using the bacon drippings, add olive oil if needed, and sauté the diced onion until translucent and fragrant (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook the Soup Base

Add the drained white beans to the pot along with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Puree to Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth and creamy. For an even silkier texture, transfer batches to a blender, blend until smooth, then return to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.

Finish with Bacon and Serve

Ladle the hot creamy white bean soup into bowls, topped with crispy bacon bits. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired for added brightness. Serve immediately with crusty bread or croutons.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy White Bean Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For best results, add a splash of broth or cream during reheating if the soup thickens too much.

5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Bacon Soup Experience

Pair with crusty artisan bread for dipping.
Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.

Top with extra bacon, a drizzle of olive oil, or grated cheese for added flavor.
For a smoky kick, sprinkle with smoked paprika or hot sauce.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy White Bean Soup

Can I make this white bean soup vegan or dairy-free?

Yes, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream and skip the bacon or substitute with vegan bacon or smoked tofu for added texture.

How long does it take to prepare this comfort soup?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 to 40 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

Can I add other vegetables to make it more hearty?

Absolutely! Diced carrots, celery, or kale work well and can be added during the sautéing step for extra nutrition and flavor.

What are some good bread options to serve with the soup?

Rustic baguette, sourdough, or garlic bread enhance the soup’s flavors and texture. Check out the creamy Parmesan spinach-mushroom pasta for a delicious bread pairing idea.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make your white bean soup cooking experience effortless, consider investing in these essential kitchen tools:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics – For perfectly crispy bacon without the mess, this versatile air fryer ensures crispy bacon every time, saving time and reducing oil splatter.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – A durable set that makes sautéing vegetables and simmering your soup effortless and cleanup easy.

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – For easy bacon crisping if you prefer air frying instead of stovetop bacon.
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange – Great for preparing bread crumbs or mixing ingredients for toppings.

8. Delicious variations to customize your white bean soup

Spice it up with crushed red pepper or hot sauce.

Add sautéed mushrooms or smoked sausage for extra richness.
Swap cannellini beans for chickpeas or navy beans for different textures and flavors.
Use veggie broth and skip the bacon for a vegetarian version.

9. Conclusion

This creamy white bean soup with crispy bacon combines luscious texture, smoky notes, and hearty ingredients into a comforting meal perfect for any season. Its simplicity and flavor make it an ideal choice for both quick weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings and additions to make it uniquely yours. Enjoy this cozy, satisfying bacon soup that everyone will love!