Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s the perfect meal for chilly days or whenever you crave something hearty. This homemade bean and bacon soup combines tender beans with crispy bacon, creating a savory blend that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
The beauty of this Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup lies in its simplicity; just a handful of ingredients come together in one pot for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter night or bringing it to a gathering with friends, this bean and bacon soup will surely impress everyone at the table.
Not only is Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day! Dive into this recipe to learn how to create your very own batch of comfort in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
✅ Quick and Easy – Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks.
✅ Flavorful and Versatile – Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – This Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup is ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients for Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup:
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a richer flavor; the fat will help add depth to the soup.
- Dried Beans: Choose navy beans or great northern beans; soak them overnight for optimal texture.
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness; chop them finely so they cook evenly.
- Onion: A medium onion provides aromatic depth; dice it finely for quicker cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance flavor; use about three cloves, crushed or minced.
For the broth:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while adding rich flavor.
📌 The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this flavorful Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pot using a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat behind.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add chopped onions and carrots to the pot. Sauté them in the bacon fat until softened, about five minutes. Stir in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
Step 3: Add Beans and Broth
Drain soaked beans and add them to the pot along with cooked bacon. Pour in chicken broth until everything is covered by about an inch.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for about one hour or until beans are tender.
Step 5: Season
Taste your soup after simmering; add salt, pepper, or herbs like thyme as desired. For more depth, consider adding Worcestershire sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle hot Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting meal alone or serve alongside crusty bread.
Tips and Tricks for Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup:
- Soak Beans Overnight: Soaking beans beforehand helps them cook uniformly while reducing cooking time.
- Add Flavor Gradually: Taste as you go along; seasoning gradually allows you better control over flavors.
- Make It Ahead: This soup freezes well; make extra so you can enjoy it later without hassle.
How to Serve Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
This Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious broth.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful broth.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the bean mixture and bacon in advance. Cook them separately, then combine and refrigerate for up to two days before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to three months. Glass containers work well for freezing.
- Reheating: Reheat soup on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Suggestions for the Best Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
Use Dried Beans Instead of Canned Beans
Using dried beans is a game changer for your Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup. Although canned beans are convenient, they often contain preservatives that can alter the soup’s flavor. Soaking and cooking dried beans enhances their texture and allows you to control salt levels. Plus, you’ll enjoy a fresher taste. Remember to soak your beans overnight or use the quick-soak method to ensure they cook evenly. This small step adds depth to your soup, making it heartier and more satisfying.
Don’t Skip the Aromatics
Aromatics like onions, garlic, and celery are crucial in building flavor in your Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup. These ingredients create a rich base that complements the beans and bacon beautifully. Sauté them until they’re fragrant before adding other ingredients. Skipping this step can lead to a lackluster soup that doesn’t excite your palate. Invest time in properly sautéing your aromatics; it’s worthwhile for an enhanced flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
Balance Your Seasoning
When making Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup, balancing seasoning is essential for achieving the perfect flavor. Start with a small amount of salt and gradually add more as needed; this prevents over-salting. Also, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added complexity without overwhelming the dish. Taste frequently throughout the cooking process to ensure your seasonings enhance rather than mask the natural flavors of the beans and bacon.
Choose Quality Bacon
Choosing quality bacon can significantly impact your Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup’s final taste. Opt for thick-cut bacon that has a good balance of meat and fat; this contributes to a richer broth. Cooking bacon until crispy before adding it to the soup releases flavorful fat that will enrich the overall dish. Avoid low-quality bacon, as it may lack flavor and texture, leaving your soup less satisfying.
FAQs About Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
What ingredients do I need for Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup?
To create a delicious Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup, you’ll need these key ingredients:
✅ Dried white beans (navy or Great Northern)
✅ Thick-cut bacon for rich flavor
✅ Aromatics: onion, garlic, carrots, and celery
✅ Broth: vegetable or chicken for depth
✅ Seasonings: thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper
✅ Optional additions: diced tomatoes for extra flavor or fresh parsley for garnish
Gathering these ingredients ensures a hearty, comforting meal packed with delicious flavors.
How long does it take to make Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup?
⏳ The total cooking time depends on the type of beans used:
- Dried beans: Soak overnight or use a quick soak method (1 hour). Cooking time is around 2 hours.
- Canned beans: No soaking required! The soup can be ready in 30–45 minutes.
For the best texture and flavor, dried beans are recommended, but canned beans are a great quick alternative.
Can I freeze leftovers of Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup?
Yes! Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup freezes well for later use. Follow these steps for best results:
✅ Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
✅ Store in airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving space at the top for expansion.
✅ Freeze for up to 3 months.
✅ Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until fully warmed.
Pro Tip: For easy thawing, freeze in portion-sized containers!
What can I serve with Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup?
This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with:
🥖 Crusty bread or cornbread – Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
🥗 Green salad with vinaigrette – Adds a fresh, crisp contrast.
🧀 Grilled cheese sandwiches – A classic and comforting pairing.
Feel free to get creative and pair it with your favorite sides!
Conclusion for Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
In summary, making Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup is all about using the best ingredients and cooking techniques.
✅ Choose dried beans for better texture and flavor.
✅ Don’t skip the aromatics like onions and garlic – they build a rich flavor base.
✅ Balance your seasonings carefully to enhance, not overpower, the dish.
✅ Use high-quality bacon for an extra layer of smoky, savory richness.
By following these tips and the answers in the FAQs, you’ll be on your way to making a soul-warming, satisfying Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup that your family will love! 🍲✨
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Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
Prep Time 15 minutes Cook Time 1 hour Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes Description
Ingredients
- Meat
- 6 slices Bacon thick-cut
- Produce
- 2 Carrots
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 cup Navy or great northern beans dried
- 1 Onion medium
- 1 Parsley Fresh
- Canned Goods
- 6 cups Chicken broth low-sodium
- Baking & Spices
- 1 Salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and leave the fat in the pot.
- Add diced onion and chopped carrots to the pot; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Incorporate minced garlic during the last minute.
- Drain soaked beans and add them along with cooked bacon to the pot. Pour in chicken broth until ingredients are submerged by about an inch.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for about one hour or until beans are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
- Serve hot in bowls garnished with fresh parsley if using.