There’s something undeniably cozy about a warm bowl of white bean soup. Imagine sitting by the fireplace as the rich aroma wafts through the air, with hints of garlic and herbs dancing around your senses. savory sausage and potato soup The creamy texture mingles with hearty beans, making each spoonful a comforting hug for your soul. crockpot potato soup recipe creamy potato soup alternative For more inspiration, check out this Hearty Minestrone Soup Recipe recipe.
One chilly evening, my mom decided to whip up her famous white bean soup that always brought joy during family gatherings. As I watched her stir the pot, I could already sense the deliciousness brewing. This soup isn’t just food; it’s a memory, an experience, perfect for those cold winter nights or when you simply need a little comfort.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This hearty white bean soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- It bursts with flavor from fresh herbs and spices that elevate every bite
- The vibrant colors and creamy texture make it visually appealing in any bowl
- Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to please everyone at your table
I remember one time I made this soup for friends, and they couldn’t stop raving about how it was the perfect antidote to the dreary weather outside.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Canned White Beans: I usually prefer cannellini beans for their creamy texture but feel free to mix it up with great northern beans.
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Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness; homemade broth adds a personal touch!
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings out an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
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Onion: Choose sweet onions for their mild yet rich flavor that enhances the soup’s base.
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Carrots: Diced carrots add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
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Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch and depth; don’t skip this ingredient!
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil lends richness and depth; it’s worth splurging on quality here.
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Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaf): Fresh thyme brings earthiness while bay leaves infuse subtle complexity during cooking.
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Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Aromatics: Start by finely dicing your onion, carrots, and celery. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add vegetables and sauté until they soften and smell heavenly.
Add Garlic and Herbs: Toss in minced garlic along with fresh thyme leaves and bay leaf. Sauté for another minute until fragrant; this is where magic starts happening!
Stir in Beans and Broth: Drain and rinse your white beans before adding them into the pot. Pour in vegetable broth, stirring well to combine all those glorious flavors.
Simmer Away!: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes until everything melds together beautifully.
Add Lemon Juice and Seasoning: Before serving, stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice. Taste your soup; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to preference.
This white bean soup will not only warm you up but also bring smiles around your dinner table! Enjoy every spoonful!
You Must Know
- White Bean Soup is not just comforting; it’s versatile and healthy
- You can easily adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste
- The aroma of simmering beans is like a warm hug on a chilly day, making it perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic for maximum flavor, then add your beans and broth to simmer. This sequence ensures your soup is rich and fragrant.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize with different herbs, veggies, or proteins like sausage or kale. This flexibility makes the soup uniquely yours every time.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover White Bean Soup in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop for best texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance your White Bean Soup, try soaking the beans overnight for better texture
- Always taste as you go, adjusting spices to your preference
- For a creamier soup, blend a portion of it before serving to create a delightful consistency
Sharing this recipe reminds me of cozy evenings spent with friends. One night, a friend declared my soup “the ultimate comfort food,” and I felt like a culinary rock star! autumn squash soup recipe.

FAQ
What types of beans work best in White Bean Soup?
Cannellini or navy beans are the best choices for creamy texture and flavor.
Can I make White Bean Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delightful vegetarian option.
How long does White Bean Soup last in the fridge?
It lasts about five days in an airtight container when stored properly.
White Bean Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
White Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This creamy, aromatic dish combines hearty white beans with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a warm hug in a bowl. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Enjoy every spoonful of this nourishing soup that will surely please your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf; cook for another minute.
- Add the beans and vegetable broth; stir well to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg





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