Bean with Bacon Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Bean with Bacon Soup, especially when the chilly weather rolls in. This hearty concoction brings together tender Great Northern beans and smoky, crispy bacon, turning simple ingredients into a delightful dish that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing. It’s a recipe that finds a home on many dinner tables, offering warmth and flavor whether it’s a weeknight family meal or a cozy Sunday brunch. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip it up without much fuss. Trust me, once you try this soup, it may just become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Making It

This Bean with Bacon Soup is not just another recipe; it’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to please everyone at the table. One of the best aspects of this dish is its simplicity. It’s budget-friendly since dried beans can be purchased for mere cents per pound, and you probably have most of the other ingredients on hand already. It’s also exceptionally filling, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or simply for enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

"This Bean with Bacon Soup warmed my soul! The flavor was rich, and the bacon added the perfect touch. My kids couldn’t get enough!" – Happy Home Cook

Every spoonful of this soup is infused with the savory notes of thyme and fresh vegetables, offering both comfort and nourishment. Perfect for a busy weeknight or even a casual gathering, it’s the kind of dish that highlights the joy of home cooking without demanding extensive effort.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making this Bean with Bacon Soup is straightforward, which is one of the reasons it has earned a spot in my recipe rotation. You’ll start by preparing your ingredients, but don’t worry—this guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you have everything under control.

What You’ll Need

• 1 cup Great Northern beans (dried) (can substitute with canned beans; adjust cooking time)
• 6 oz thick-cut bacon (choose your favorite type for varied flavor)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Steps

1. Rinse the Great Northern beans under cold water. If you’re using dried beans, be sure to soak them overnight for optimal tenderness.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and leave the drippings behind.
3. Next, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bacon drippings for about five minutes, allowing them to soften and release their flavors.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Crumble the crispy bacon back into the pot along with the soaked beans, chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about an hour, or until the beans are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Serve hot, and if you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Tips for Serving

While Bean with Bacon Soup is hearty enough on its own, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal. Consider serving it with a crusty piece of bread or a warm baguette for dipping. A crisp side salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of grated cheese on top just before serving creates a delightful creamy layer.

Best Way to Store Bean with Bacon Soup

If you happen to have leftovers, which is rare with such a delicious dish, here are some tips for storing them properly. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Bean with Bacon Soup can last in the freezer for up to 3 months—just be sure to label the container with the date for easy reference. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens too much.

Pro Chef Tips

To take your Bean with Bacon Soup to the next level, consider these professional cooking tips:

• Cook the bacon on lower heat to render more fat slowly, enhancing its flavor.
• For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it using an immersion blender and stir it back into the pot.

Creative Twists

While this recipe is classic as is, don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it! You can swap the Great Northern beans for pinto beans or even white kidney beans. For a vegetarian version, try using smoked paprika instead of bacon and vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a similar smoky flavor profile. Adding a splash of vinegar just before serving can brighten up the dish beautifully, too!

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this Bean with Bacon Soup?

Preparation time is about 20 minutes, but if you’re soaking beans overnight, consider that extra time.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use two cans of bean (approximately 15 oz each), rinsed and drained. Just skip the soaking time and reduce the simmering to about 20-30 minutes.

How do I store the soup securely?

Let your Bean with Bacon Soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Always remember to reheat safely!

With these tips and insights, you’re all set to make a heartwarming pot of Bean with Bacon Soup. Enjoy every satisfying spoonful!

Bean with Bacon Soup

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• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A hearty and comforting soup featuring tender Great Northern beans and smoky, crispy bacon, perfect for chilly weather.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup Great Northern beans (dried) (can substitute with canned beans; adjust cooking time)
• 6 oz thick-cut bacon
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse the Great Northern beans under cold water. If using dried beans, soak overnight for optimal tenderness.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and leave the drippings behind.
3. Sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bacon drippings for about 5 minutes until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Crumble the crispy bacon back into the pot along with soaked beans, chicken broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for about 60 minutes, or until beans are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread or a salad for a complete meal. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: bean soup, bacon soup, comfort food, winter recipes