Creamy White Bean & Bacon Tomato Soup
This Creamy White Bean & Bacon Tomato Soup is easy to make and feels like a hug in a bowl, offering rich flavors and a cozy aroma.
Ingredients
Base & Aromatics
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, chopped Cooked until crispy
- 2 large shallots, finely diced (about 3/4 cup)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced (about 1 1/4 cups)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning & Flavor
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Soup Base
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth Or 4 bouillon cubes dissolved in 4 cups hot water
- 2 cans (14-ounce) white beans (cannellini or great northern), undrained
- 1 can (14-ounce) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 dried bay leaf
- 1 unit Parmesan rind (optional) Adds richness
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Garnish & Serving Ideas
- Croutons, chopped parsley or basil, pesto drizzle, white balsamic vinegar, or lemon wedges Serve with garlic bread, Italian chopped salad, or cooked grains
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 5–6 minutes. Remove bacon and leave 1 tablespoon bacon fat in the pot.
- Add olive oil to the pot with bacon fat. Cook shallots and carrots for 4–5 minutes until soft.
- Add garlic, Italian seasoning, thyme, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
Cook the Soup
- Pour in broth, then add undrained white beans, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, and Parmesan rind if using. Stir gently.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
Finish and Serve
- Remove bay leaf and rind. Stir in crispy bacon, season with salt and pepper.
- For creamier soup, add heavy cream and heat for 2 minutes.
- Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan, fresh herbs, or croutons. Add a drizzle of pesto or lemon for brightness.
Notes
Crisp the bacon well for texture and flavor. Use the Parmesan rind while simmering for extra depth. Taste and salt at the end—canned beans and broth add salt already. If soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or water when reheating.