1 Shares

This white bean soup is a comforting blend of savory bacon, tender cannellini beans, and nutrient-packed kale. Made with a rich chicken broth base, aromatic vegetables, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is a perfect option for cozy dinners or meal prepping. Customizable with vegetarian alternatives or added spice, this versatile soup fits any table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

6 strips thick-cut bacon
⅓ cup dry white wine or chicken broth (see notes)
2 tablespoons butter (optional, not needed if bacon drippings are used)
1 yellow onion, diced
¾ cup carrots, diced
1 celery rib, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons flour
5 cups chicken broth
2 (15.5 oz.) cans cannellini beans (white beans), drained (see notes)
1 ½ cups kale (can substitute spinach)
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Seasonings:

1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon each: dried oregano, rosemary, mustard powder
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 pinch red pepper flakes

Instructions

Cook the Bacon:
- In a 4.5-quart soup pot, cook the bacon slowly over low heat. For easier cooking, cut the bacon strips in half. Once crispy, remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to cool. Chop into pieces once cooled. Reserve 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings (or substitute with butter if needed).
Deglaze the Pot:
- Add the white wine (or chicken broth) to the pot over medium heat. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance the flavor. Simmer until the liquid reduces by half, about 3-4 minutes.
Sauté Vegetables:
- Add the reserved drippings to the pot along with the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic and Seasonings:
- Stir in the garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Incorporate Broth and Beans:
- Add the drained beans and slowly pour in the chicken broth in small splashes, stirring constantly to maintain a smooth texture. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer gently, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally and ensure no beans stick to the bottom of the pot.
Add Kale:
- Stir in the kale and let it soften for about 5 minutes.
Finish with Parmesan and Bacon:
- Remove the soup from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, sprinkle the cheese on top of individual serving bowls. Garnish with chopped bacon and serve warm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Hearty Flavor: The combination of bacon, beans, and Parmesan creates a deeply satisfying taste.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the beans and kale.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with different greens or broth options.
Comfort Food Staple: Perfect for chilly days or cozy dinners.

Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and fresh greens enhance the flavor.
Bacon Alternatives: Turkey bacon or pancetta can be substituted for a twist.
Blending Option: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the kale.
Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and measure ingredients in advance to streamline cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth.
Different Beans: Substitute cannellini beans with navy or great northern beans.
Leafy Greens: Replace kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens.
Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

Can I freeze this soup? Yes, but avoid adding the Parmesan cheese before freezing. Add it fresh when reheating.

What can I substitute for white wine? Chicken broth or vegetable broth works perfectly as a replacement.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
Serve alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.
Top with extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or freshly cracked black pepper for garnish.

Suggestions

Meal Prep: Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick weeknight dinners.
Crowd-Friendly: Serve as an appetizer for gatherings or potlucks.
Diet-Friendly: Adapt the recipe with gluten-free flour and low-sodium broth for specific dietary needs.