Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon

© Original recipe by Crave & Craft ©

Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon 🥣🥓✨

1. Introduction

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this white bean soup recipe, a hearty white bean stew that combines creamy beans and crispy bacon for an irresistible flavor. Whether you’re craving a warm lunch or a satisfying dinner, this creamy bean soup is easy to prepare and perfect for chilly days. Its velvety texture and savory toppings make it a crowd-pleaser. The blend of tender white beans and smoky bacon creates a harmonious dish that is both nourishing and flavorful.

2. Ingredients for Creamy White Bean Soup with Crispy Bacon

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups cooked or canned white beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 6 slices bacon
• Optional garnishes: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Creamy White Bean Soup

Preparing the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon until crispy. You can do this in a skillet or using the Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 for an easy, mess-free approach. Once crispy, transfer the bacon to paper towels to drain excess fat and then chop into small pieces.

Cooking the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, creating a flavorful base for your white bean soup.

Soups and Simmering

Add the cooked or canned white beans to the pot, followed by the broth. Stir in the dried thyme and smoked paprika, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld and the beans will soften, creating a creamy texture.

Blending the Soup

Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup until smooth and velvety. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot. For a creamy consistency, blend thoroughly.

Finishing Touches

Stir in the crispy bacon pieces into the soup just before serving. Top each bowl with optional garnishes like chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor and presentation.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover White Bean Soup

Allow the white bean soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your White Bean Stew

This hearty white bean stew is versatile and pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a light side salad. For an extra protein boost, consider topping with additional crispy bacon or a poached egg. It’s perfect as a wholesome lunch or comforting dinner that can be enjoyed year-round.

6. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics: Enhance your bacon crisping experience with this versatile kitchen gadget, making it quick and easy to achieve perfectly crispy bacon without the mess.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: This durable cookware set ensures your pots and pans last for years, making soup preparation effortless and enjoyable.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Use this to make crispy bacon or toast bread alongside your soup for a complete meal.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about White Bean Soup

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, dried beans work perfectly but require soaking overnight and extra cooking time. Follow the package instructions for pre-soaking and cook until tender before adding to the soup.

Can I make this creamy bean soup vegan or vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and skip the bacon or substitute it with smoky plant-based bacon or roasted tomatoes to maintain depth of flavor.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes, making it a quick option for a comforting homemade meal.

What are some substitutions for the ingredients?

You can swap thyme with rosemary or oregano, and smoked paprika with regular paprika for a milder flavor. For toppings, shredded cheese or chopped herbs also work well.

8. Conclusion

This white bean soup recipe offers a delightful blend of creaminess and smoky goodness with crispy bacon. It’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion, delivering hearty comfort with every bowl. Dive into this flavorful and satisfying dish and enjoy a warm, nourishing meal that your family and friends will love!

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