White Bean Soup

There’s something so heartwarming about a big bowl of soup simmering on the stove — especially when it’s creamy, comforting, and made with simple ingredients from your pantry.

This White Bean Soup is the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your heart feel cozy. It’s wholesome, full of flavor, and comes together with very little effort. Whether you’re curled up on a chilly evening or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this soup delivers pure comfort in every spoonful.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ cup milk or cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until vegetables are tender and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs:
   Stir in minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant — this helps release the oils and deepen the flavor.
3. Add the Beans and Broth:
   Pour in the white beans, broth, and bay leaf. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer Until Cozy:
   Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the flavors have melded together.
5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional):
   For a creamier texture, remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup. Or, transfer 2 cups of soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and stir it back in.
6. Finish and Serve:
   Stir in milk or cream if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Thicker soup: Blend more beans or simmer a few minutes longer to reduce liquid.
• Creamy but dairy-free: Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of cream.
• Meal prep friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Recipe Variations

• White Bean & Spinach Soup: Stir in a few handfuls of baby spinach right before serving for extra greens.
• Smoky White Bean Soup: Add a diced smoked sausage or a dash of smoked paprika for a hearty twist.
• Vegetarian Protein Boost: Mix in cooked quinoa or small pasta shapes for added texture and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cozy White Bean Soup with:

• A warm slice of crusty bread or garlic toast
• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil on top

It’s simple, wholesome, and oh-so-satisfying — the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile.

Conclusion

This White Bean Soup is proof that comfort doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few basic ingredients and a single pot, you can create a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.