The Best White Bean Soup: A Creamy & Flavorful Recipe

Welcome to Sweet Emily, where we make baking and cooking simple! This best white bean soup recipe is a true game-changer for busy parents and beginners alike. It’s incredibly creamy, richly flavored, and surprisingly quick to prepare, perfect for a weeknight meal. You’ll love this healthy, budget-friendly dish that delivers ultimate comfort in every spoonful. Get ready to discover your new favorite go-to soup!

Why You’ll Love This Best White Bean Soup

You’ll adore this best white bean soup for so many fantastic reasons, making it a staple in your kitchen.

• Quick & Easy: You can prepare this delightful soup in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Wholesome Ingredients: We use simple, nourishing ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
• Velvety Texture: Potatoes and mashed beans create an incredibly smooth, satisfyingly creamy consistency.
• Rich Flavor Profile: This soup boasts deeply savory and aromatic flavors from fresh herbs and vegetables.
• Protein & Fiber Packed: White beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, keeping you full. Learn more about the nutritional benefits of white beans and how they contribute to a healthy diet.
• Naturally Vegan & GF: It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, catering to various dietary preferences without extra effort.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable, pantry-friendly ingredients, it’s kind to your wallet.

Ingredients

To create the best white bean soup, gather these fresh and pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the soup’s incredible depth of flavor and creamy texture. Quality ingredients always make a difference in the final taste of your homemade meals.

• 2 cans (28oz – 800 grams) cannellini beans or white beans, drained
• 1 medium-size onion, diced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1-2 garlic cloves, diced or pressed
• 1 cup (7 oz – 200 grams) frozen spinach (optional)
• 2 medium-size potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 Tbsp olive oil, plus more for serving
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) dry white wine
• 1 sprig rosemary (or 1 Tbsp of chopped fresh leaves/1/2 tsp of dried)
• 2 cups (500 ml) vegetable broth or hot water
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt, plus more to taste
• 1/8 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste

Notes & Substitutions

• White Beans: Canned cannellini or navy beans work perfectly for speed. If using dried beans, remember to pre-soak them overnight and cook them longer until tender.
• Aromatics: The onion, carrots, and celery form a “soffritto,” the essential flavor base that builds the soup’s complexity. Do not skip this crucial step!
• Flavor Boosters: Fresh rosemary adds an incredible aroma. You can also use fresh thyme or a bay leaf for alternative earthy notes.
• White Wine: Dry white wine like Pinot Grigio deglazes the pot and adds depth. For a non-alcoholic option, use extra vegetable broth, water, or a splash of white wine vinegar. Explore more substitutes for dry white wine in cooking if you prefer to omit alcohol.
• Vegetables: Feel free to swap frozen spinach for fresh kale or Swiss chard, adding them towards the end of cooking.
• Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are best. They break down slightly to naturally thicken the soup, creating that lovely creamy texture.
• Broth: Use a good quality, low-sodium vegetable broth to control the overall saltiness of your soup.

Equipment

You won’t need much specialized gear to create this comforting soup. Gather these basic kitchen tools, and you’ll be ready to start cooking in no time. Simple equipment makes the process easy and enjoyable.

• A large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and a sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A sturdy wooden spoon or spatula
• A potato masher or immersion blender (optional, for extra creaminess)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the best white bean soup with ease. We break down each stage to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and successful. Remember to prep your ingredients before you begin for the most efficient cooking process.

1. Prep Ingredients: First, dice your onion, carrot, and celery. Mince the garlic and peel, then cut your potatoes into chunks. Drain your canned white beans thoroughly.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Warm the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring often, until the onion softens and turns translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Flavor Base: Stir in the minced garlic, drained white beans, tomato paste, potato chunks, rosemary sprig (or chopped/dried), and paprika (if using). Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to combine the flavors.
4. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer until the wine has almost entirely evaporated, cooking for another minute or so. This step builds significant flavor.
5. Simmer Soup: Next, add the frozen spinach, vegetable broth (or hot water), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Cook Until Tender: Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it gently simmer for 15-20 minutes. Cook until the potatoes are very soft and the soup begins to thicken.
7. Create Creaminess: Remove the pot from the heat. Carefully remove the rosemary sprig if you used a whole one. For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans and potatoes directly in the pot using a potato masher or the back of your spoon.
8. Season & Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Divide the hot soup into bowls. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil and a final sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately with crusty whole-grain bread. If not keeping vegan, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds extra richness. Enjoy your delicious best white bean soup!

Pro Tips for the Best White Bean Soup

Unlock the full potential of your soup with these expert tips. Mastering these techniques ensures you achieve the most flavorful and satisfying results every time. They are key for creating the best white bean soup possible.

• Layering Flavors: Take your time sautéing the “soffritto” (onion, carrots, celery). This slow cooking builds a deep, foundational flavor for the entire soup.
• Achieve Creamy Texture: Mashing a portion of the beans and potatoes in the pot is crucial for that velvety consistency. Don’t skip this step; it naturally thickens the soup.
• Seasoning Wisely: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper. Broths vary in sodium, so season gradually to prevent over-salting.
• Fresh Herbs are Best: Fresh rosemary offers a far superior aroma and flavor compared to dried. If you have it, always opt for fresh.
• Wine Quality: Use a white wine you would enjoy drinking. Its flavor will concentrate in the soup, so choose something pleasant.
• Preventing Graininess: Avoid overcooking the beans initially, as they can become grainy. Canned beans are already cooked to perfection.
• Thickening Soup: If your soup isn’t thick enough, mash a few more potatoes and beans, or let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

This versatile soup offers many possibilities for serving, storing, and customizing. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. It’s truly a flexible recipe for any home cook.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your best white bean soup piping hot with generous slices of crusty artisan bread, perfect for dipping.
• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over each bowl enhances the richness and provides a beautiful finish.
• Freshly ground black pepper adds a pleasant aromatic kick right before serving.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
• For those not keeping it vegan, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or pecorino Romano is absolutely delicious. Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy, savory alternative.

Storage & Freezing

• Store any cooled leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• This soup freezes beautifully! Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some headspace. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked Italian sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy pan-fried pancetta for extra heartiness.
• Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding other quick-cooking vegetables like chopped kale, Swiss chard, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Pasta or Grains: Stir in a handful of small pasta (like ditalini or orzo) or cooked rice during the last few minutes of simmering to make it more filling.
• Spicier Kick: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic or a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end.
• Herb Swaps: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or a bay leaf for different flavor profiles.
• Tomato Boost: A can of diced tomatoes (undrained) adds more acidity and a lovely color to the broth. Add it with the vegetable broth.

Nutrition Information

This best white bean soup is a nutritional powerhouse, offering warmth and well-being in every bowl. It provides a balanced meal, perfect for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy knowing you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients.

Rich in plant-based protein and an excellent source of dietary fiber, this soup helps keep you full and supports digestive health. It’s low in saturated fat and delivers beneficial vitamins and minerals. The naturally vegan and gluten-free nature makes it accessible to many diets.

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making this delightful soup. We provide quick, clear answers to help you succeed in your kitchen.

• Can I use dried white beans? Yes, you can. Pre-soak them overnight, then boil them until tender before adding to the soup, adjusting the overall cooking time accordingly.
• Is this soup spicy? No, the base recipe is not spicy. Feel free to add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer some heat.
• Can I make it without wine? Absolutely. Simply substitute the white wine with an equal amount of vegetable broth or water, or a splash of white wine vinegar for acidity.
• How to make it thinner/thicker? For a thinner soup, add a bit more vegetable broth or water. To make it thicker, mash more of the beans and potatoes or simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Can I make this in a slow cooker? You can definitely adapt this recipe. Sauté the aromatics on the stovetop first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
• What kind of potatoes work best? Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal. They break down beautifully and contribute to the soup’s creamy, thick consistency.

Conclusion

This best white bean soup recipe offers warmth, comfort, and incredible flavor in every bowl. It’s remarkably easy to make, featuring simple ingredients that transform into a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal. You’ll love its healthy profile and budget-friendly appeal, making it a perfect choice for any day of the week. We encourage you to try this ultimate white bean soup recipe soon. Share your experience and let us know how much you enjoyed it!

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The Best White Bean Soup: A Creamy & Flavorful Recipe

A rich and creamy white bean soup recipe packed with flavorful vegetables, aromatic herbs, and hearty potatoes, perfect for a comforting meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Ladle

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cans cannellini beans or white beans drained
• 1 medium-size onion diced
• 1 celery stalk diced
• 1 large carrot diced
• 1-2 garlic cloves diced or pressed
• 1 cup frozen spinach (optional)
• 2 medium-size potatoes peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 Tbsp olive oil plus more for serving
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1/3 cup white wine
• 1 sprig rosemary or 1 Tbsp of chopped fresh leaves/1/2 tsp of dried
• 2 cups vegetable broth or hot water
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt plus more to taste
• 1/8 tsp black pepper plus more to taste

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a large pot, warm olive oil over medium heat, then add diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent.
• Add garlic, beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary, and optional paprika to the pot. Stir frequently and cook for about 1 minute.
• Pour in the white wine, stir well, and simmer for about a minute until it has evaporated.
• Stir in the frozen spinach, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer gently for 15 minutes.
• Once potatoes are soft and soup is creamy, remove from heat and discard the rosemary sprig. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
• Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with black pepper. Serve immediately with crusty bread and optional grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Seasoning can be adjusted to taste, especially salt depending on your broth. For serving, drizzle with olive oil and optionally add freshly ground black pepper. This soup pairs well with crusty whole grain bread. For non-vegan diets, freshly grated Parmesan cheese can enhance the flavor.

sofia benali

Sofia Ben Ali is a 34-year-old chef from Morocco who has a deep passion for cooking. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of her childhood in Tunis, she pursued her culinary studies in France, where she fell in love with French gastronomy. Today, Sofia runs a successful catering business known for her innovative dishes that beautifully blend Arabian and French flavors. Through cooking classes and social media, she shares her culinary journey, inspiring others to explore the joys of cooking while honoring her rich heritage.