The rich aroma of simmering beans and crispy bacon wafts through the kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation. Bean with bacon soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that transforms any chilly evening into a cozy celebration. Italian meatball soup.
Imagine diving into a hearty bowl, feeling the creamy texture mix with smoky notes from the bacon, while tender beans melt in your mouth. This delightful dish is perfect for family gatherings, game nights, or simply when you need a little comfort after a long day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation allows anyone to whip up this comforting dish in no time.
- With its robust flavor profile, each spoonful delivers a savory experience bound to please your taste buds.
- The inviting visual appeal makes it a star on any dinner table, showcasing rich colors and textures.
- This versatile recipe can be easily customized to include your favorite veggies or spices for added flair.
Ingredients for Bean with Bacon Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Great Northern Beans: These beans are mild and creamy, making them perfect for absorbing all the delicious flavors of the soup.
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crunch; its smoky essence is crucial to the soup’s character.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté it until translucent to enhance the base flavor.
- Carrots: Diced carrots bring a touch of sweetness and color; they also add some healthy crunch.
- Celery: Chop up some celery for that signature aromatic flavor—it’s like adding a little garden freshness!
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish with its pungent aroma; don’t skimp on it!
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth creates a flavorful base without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Dried Thyme: A sprinkle of dried thyme adds an earthy note that complements the beans beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Bean with Bacon Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook about six slices of chopped bacon until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside on paper towels to drain. Keep about two tablespoons of the drippings in the pot because we’re fancy like that.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add one diced onion, two chopped carrots, and two stalks of chopped celery to the pot. Sauté until they soften up, which should take around five minutes. Toss in three cloves of minced garlic during the last minute—don’t let it burn!
Step 3: Add Beans and Broth
Now comes the magic! Stir in four cups of drained Great Northern beans along with six cups of chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil while scraping up any delicious bits stuck at the bottom of your pot.
Step 4: Season It Up
Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried thyme along with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—taste as you go! Let everything simmer together for about twenty minutes so those flavors can mingle like old friends at a reunion.
Step 5: Blend (Optional)
For creamier soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of it right in the pot until you reach your desired consistency. If you love those chunky bits (and who doesn’t?), skip this step!
Step 6: Serve
Ladle your glorious bean with bacon soup into bowls and top it off with crumbled bacon for that extra crunch! Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping bliss.
This recipe is not only satisfying but also offers room for personalization—feel free to throw in some spinach or kale if you’re feeling virtuous!
Now go ahead and enjoy your hearty bowl of happiness because nothing says love like Bean with Bacon Soup served piping hot!
You Must Know
- This hearty bean with bacon soup not only warms your soul but also makes for a simple, satisfying meal.
- With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you’re craving nostalgia in a bowl.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by frying the bacon until crispy, then sauté the onions and garlic in the flavorful drippings. Add your beans and broth next, letting everything simmer together to create a symphony of taste that will have your taste buds dancing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different beans for variety—kidney or black beans can work wonders. You might also sprinkle in some smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick, or toss in some veggies like carrots or celery to sneak in more nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover bean with bacon soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy and delightful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use dry beans soaked overnight for a deeper flavor and better texture.
- Don’t skip the crispy bacon; it adds essential smokiness.
- Lastly, let the soup sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance all those cozy flavors.
Sometimes I whip up this bean with bacon soup when I need comfort food fast. My family swears it has magical properties because every time they eat it, their mood lifts instantly! For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Bean with Bacon Soup?
To make a delicious Bean with Bacon Soup, gather essential ingredients such as canned white beans, diced bacon, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, and seasonings like thyme and bay leaves. You can also add optional ingredients like smoked paprika for extra flavor or fresh herbs for garnish. This recipe offers flexibility; feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables to customize it according to your taste. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Amish Country Casserole recipe.
How long does it take to prepare Bean with Bacon Soup?
Preparing Bean with Bacon Soup is relatively quick and straightforward. The total time involves about 10 minutes of preparation and 30 to 40 minutes of cooking. You can adjust the simmering time based on how thick you want the soup to be. quick beef enchiladas If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider letting it simmer longer. Overall, this comforting dish can be ready in less than an hour!
Can I freeze Bean with Bacon Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Bean with Bacon Soup for later enjoyment! After cooking and cooling the soup completely, transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until hot. This makes it a convenient meal option for busy days.
What can I serve with Bean with Bacon Soup?
Bean with Bacon Soup pairs wonderfully with various sides that enhance its flavors. Consider serving crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch and balances out the hearty soup. For a complete meal, you might also enjoy pairing it with a classic grilled cheese sandwich or cornbread, adding warmth and comfort to your dining experience.
Conclusion for Bean with Bacon Soup
In summary, Bean with Bacon Soup is an easy-to-make dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. By using simple ingredients like beans and bacon, you create a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. hearty hamburger soup recipe Whether you’re preparing it for family dinner or enjoying leftovers, this soup is versatile and satisfying. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional spices or vegetables to make the recipe your own!
Bean with Bacon Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Warm up your evenings with this hearty Bean with Bacon Soup, a perfect blend of creamy Great Northern beans and smoky bacon. This comforting dish delivers rich flavor and texture in every spoonful, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, enjoy a bowl that transforms chilly nights into warm celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Great Northern Beans (dried, soaked overnight)
- 6 slices thick-cut Bacon (chopped)
- 1 medium Onion (diced)
- 2 Carrots (diced)
- 2 Celery stalks (chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 6 cups Low-sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic during the last minute.
- Add soaked beans and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, scraping up any bits from the bottom.
- Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup if desired.
- Serve hot, topped with crumbled bacon and accompanied by crusty bread or cornbread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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