White Bean Soup with Bacon: 7 Comforting Flavors to Love

By:

Christina R. Jones

October 5, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: a hearty white bean soup with bacon. Seriously, there’s nothing quite like it to warm your soul on a chilly evening! The combination of creamy white beans and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen? Pure magic!

What sets this recipe apart is how simple it is while still packing a punch of flavor. You can whip it up in just over an hour, and the best part? It uses pantry staples that you might already have on hand. This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s hearty and filling, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about leftovers—if there are any! So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

white bean soup with bacon - detail 1

Ingredients for White Bean Soup with Bacon

2 cups white beans, soaked overnight
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

How to Prepare White Bean Soup with Bacon

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious white bean soup with bacon! I promise, it’s easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a bowl of cozy goodness in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, drain and rinse those soaked white beans. This step helps remove any excess salt or impurities. You’ll want them nice and clean!
In a large pot, heat over medium heat and add your chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The smell alone is going to make your mouth water!
Once your bacon is perfectly crispy, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook them together for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the veggies soften. This is where the magic begins, as those veggies soak up the bacon flavor!
Next, stir in the minced garlic and thyme. Cook for another minute; trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Now, it’s time to add the rinsed white beans and the chicken broth. Bring the whole mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to let it simmer.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for about an hour, or until the beans are tender. Don’t rush this part! The longer they simmer, the better the flavors meld together.
Finally, once the beans are nice and tender, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and voila! Your hearty white bean soup is ready to be served!

Feel free to taste as you go and adjust those seasonings to your liking. And remember, this soup only gets better the longer it sits, so leftovers (if there are any) are a delightful treat for the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: This white bean soup with bacon comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy bacon, tender white beans, and fresh veggies creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist!
Hearty and Filling: This soup is not just a side; it’s a meal in itself! Packed with protein and fiber, it keeps you satisfied and energized.
Great for Meal Prep: It freezes beautifully, so you can make a big batch and have delicious leftovers ready for those busy days.
Nutritionally Balanced: With wholesome ingredients like beans and vegetables, it’s a comforting dish that doesn’t compromise on health!

Tips for Success with White Bean Soup with Bacon

To ensure your white bean soup with bacon turns out absolutely scrumptious, I’ve got a few handy tips to share! First off, if you’re short on time, you can use canned white beans instead of soaking dried beans overnight. Just make sure to rinse them well before adding to the pot to keep things fresh!

Next, feel free to experiment with the types of bacon you use. Turkey bacon or even pancetta can bring a unique flavor twist if you’re looking for something different. Also, don’t shy away from adding extra veggies! Spinach or kale makes a lovely addition and boosts the nutrition without overpowering the soup.

And here’s a little secret: if you want a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving. It gives it that luxurious feel! Lastly, always taste and adjust your seasoning. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference, so trust your taste buds!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! This white bean soup with bacon is not only delicious but also quite nutritious. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 350
Fat: 12g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of bacon or broth. But overall, this soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal without sacrificing nutrition! It’s comforting, satisfying, and packs a nice protein punch, making it a wonderful addition to your weeknight dinners.

FAQ about White Bean Soup with Bacon

Q1: Can I use canned white beans instead of dried?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, canned white beans work perfectly. Just remember to drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot. This saves you time while still delivering that creamy goodness!

Q2: How can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can easily make a delicious vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke to replicate that rich, smoky flavor.

Q3: What can I serve with white bean soup?
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This soup actually tastes even better the next day! You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

Q5: Can I add other ingredients to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition. You can also add some herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh twist!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious white bean soup with bacon is super simple! Once the soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Trust me, the flavors only get better as it sits!

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before pouring it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze! You can gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it’s frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight first, or you can reheat it straight from the freezer in a pot over low heat. Just be patient and stir often to avoid sticking! Enjoy every cozy spoonful!

Serving Suggestions for White Bean Soup with Bacon

When it comes to serving your hearty white bean soup with bacon, the options are endless! I love pairing it with a warm, crusty baguette or some homemade garlic bread for that perfect dipping experience. The bread soaks up the flavorful broth beautifully!

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh green salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup perfectly. You might even consider adding a side of roasted vegetables, like brussels sprouts or carrots, which bring a lovely sweetness that balances the savory notes of the soup.

And don’t forget about cheese! A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of creamy goat cheese on top of the soup can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Trust me, these pairings will make your cozy soup night even more delightful!