As the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to cozy up with. And when it comes to creamy white bean soups, you can’t go wrong! With their rich flavors and velvety textures, these soups are perfect for a chilly night in. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious recipes that showcase the best of creamy white bean soups. From classic combinations like garlic and kale to more adventurous pairings like coconut curry and chorizo, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal after a long day or just need a comforting pick-me-up, these creamy white bean soups are sure to hit the spot. So grab your favorite soup pot and let’s dive in!
Garlicky White Bean and Kale Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines the creaminess of cannellini beans, the pungency of garlic, and the earthiness of kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped (about 2 cups)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the cannellini beans, chicken broth, chopped kale, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuscan White Bean Soup with Rosemary
This hearty soup is a classic Italian staple, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The combination of creamy cannellini beans, aromatic rosemary, and rich chicken broth will warm your heart and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked and drained cannellini beans, chicken broth, and chopped rosemary to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Spicy White Bean and Tomato Soup
This hearty soup combines creamy cannellini beans with the warmth of Italian spices and the freshness of ripe tomatoes, making it a perfect comfort food for any season. A hint of cayenne pepper adds a surprising kick that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the broth, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy White Bean and Leek Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans, sweet leeks, and aromatic garlic. Serve with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium leek, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté leek and garlic in a little water until tender.
2. Add cannellini beans, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes or until the beans are creamy.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
White Bean and Sausage Soup with Spinach
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of white beans, savory sausage, and fresh spinach for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the soaked white beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves; cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Lemon Herb White Bean Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, packed with creamy white beans, brightened by the zesty flavor of lemon and herbs. A comforting and nutritious option for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked and drained white beans, vegetable broth, chopped rosemary, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoky White Bean and Bacon Soup
Savory and comforting, this smoky white bean soup is perfect for a chilly evening. With the rich flavors of bacon and beans, you’ll be cozy in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the grease in the pot.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
4. Add the soaked and drained navy beans, chicken broth, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
White Bean and Roasted Garlic Soup
This hearty soup combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the rich, velvety flavor of roasted garlic. Perfect for a chilly evening, it’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a winter favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and roasted garlic in olive oil over medium heat until softened.
3. Add soaked and drained cannellini beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Vegetable-Packed White Bean Minestrone
This Italian-inspired minestrone recipe is a flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal, packed with tender vegetables, creamy white beans, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the mixed vegetables, cannellini beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry White Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting and aromatic soup that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the nutty flavor of white beans, all infused with a hint of Indian-inspired spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add beans, coconut milk, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
White Bean and Butternut Squash Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans and sweet butternut squash, simmered to perfection in a flavorful vegetable broth. Serve warm with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: crusty bread, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and roast for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Add roasted squash, cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with crusty bread and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
White Bean Soup with Parmesan and Thyme
This hearty soup is a comforting blend of tender cannellini beans, rich chicken broth, and savory flavors from Parmesan cheese and thyme. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the cannellini beans, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Chicken Soup with Herbs
This hearty soup combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the tender taste of chicken, all infused with a blend of aromatic herbs. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, chicken, and herbs. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the cannellini beans, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
White Bean and Chorizo Soup
This rich and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans, spicy chorizo sausage, and aromatic vegetables. A comforting bowl that’s sure to warm your belly and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add soaked white beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
White Bean Soup with Fresh Basil
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with tender cannellini beans and a hint of fresh basil. Enjoy it as a satisfying lunch or dinner on its own or paired with crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cannellini beans and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and optional Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean and Mushroom Soup
This hearty soup combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the comforting creaminess of white beans, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and nutritious bowl that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the soaked and drained cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add a creamy touch.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
White Bean Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy beans and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, making it a comforting meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked and drained cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
White Bean and Potato Chowder
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans and tender potatoes, simmered to perfection with aromatic vegetables and spices. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, vegetable broth, and cannellini beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean Soup with Fennel and Carrots
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy beans, sweet fennel, and crunchy carrots. A hearty and nutritious meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 can cannellini beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium fennel bulbs, chopped
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped fennel and carrots, cooking until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the vegetable broth, cannellini beans, and coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
White Bean Soup with Crispy Sage
This hearty soup combines creamy white beans with the earthy flavor of crispy sage, making for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked and drained cannellini beans, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped sage leaves and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Cozy up on a chilly night with one of these 20 creamy white bean soup recipes! From classic combinations like Garlicky White Bean and Kale Soup to more adventurous options like Coconut Curry White Bean Soup, there’s something for everyone. These soups are packed with flavor and nutrients, thanks to the versatility of cannellini, navy, or great northern beans. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of Tuscan-inspired goodness or a spicy kick from Smoky White Bean and Bacon Soup, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
