Smoky Bacon and Bean Soup

Smoky Bacon and Bean Soup is a hearty, comforting dish packed with rich, smoky flavors from crispy bacon, tender beans, and aromatic seasonings. This one-pot meal is perfect for chilly nights, meal prep, or when you need a satisfying bowl of warmth and nourishment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and smoky flavor – Bacon adds a deep, savory taste to every spoonful.
• Hearty and filling – Loaded with protein and fiber from beans.
• One-pot meal – Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
• Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bacon, chopped
• Onion, diced
• Carrots, diced
• Celery, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Canned white beans (cannellini, navy, or great northern), drained and rinsed
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Smoked paprika
• Thyme (dried or fresh)
• Bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

this recipe

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Beans and Seasonings: Stir in the beans, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Simmer: Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until flavors meld.
5. Finish with Bacon: Stir in the crispy bacon and simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove bay leaf.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
• Meaty Version: Stir in smoked sausage or shredded chicken.
• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth, adding a little smoked paprika for flavor.
• Creamy Texture: Blend half of the soup for a creamier consistency.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes! Soak dried beans overnight, then simmer for 1-2 hours before adding other ingredients.

What’s the best bacon for this recipe?

Thick-cut, smoked bacon gives the best flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook bacon separately, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad pair well.

How do I make it less salty?

Use low-sodium broth and rinse canned beans well.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or potatoes make great additions.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

Mash some of the beans or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

How do I get the smokiest flavor?

Use smoked bacon, smoked paprika, and even a touch of liquid smoke if desired.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the bacon and veggies, then pressure cook everything on high for 10 minutes with a natural release.

Conclusion

Smoky Bacon and Bean Soup is a rich, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy dinner, meal prep, or a warming lunch, this soup is packed with bold flavors and nourishing ingredients. Pair it with your favorite bread and enjoy a comforting homemade meal!

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