Introduction

This Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup is the perfect easy weeknight dinner, combining smoky bacon, tender white beans, and fresh spinach in a rich, comforting broth. It comes together in under 30 minutes for a satisfying meal with minimal effort. For another quick and savory chicken dish, try this Braised Chicken Thighs and Legs with Tomato Recipe.

Ingredients

This comforting soup combines smoky bacon, creamy white beans, and fresh spinach in a rich, savory broth that’s both hearty and satisfying.

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	30 minutes

Context: This Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup comes together about 25% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Ingredients

Dice 6 slices of thick-cut bacon into ½-inch pieces. Finely chop 1 medium yellow onion and mince 3 garlic cloves. Rinse and drain 2 cans of white beans, and measure 4 cups of fresh spinach.

Step 2 — Cook Bacon

Place bacon in a large pot over medium heat. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy and browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving rendered fat in the pot.

Step 3 — Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onion to the bacon fat and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4 — Simmer Soup Base

Add white beans and 4 cups of chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5 — Create Creamy Texture

Transfer 2 cups of the soup to a blender and purée until smooth. Return the puréed mixture to the pot—this creates the creamy base for your Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup without heavy cream.

Step 6 — Wilt Spinach

Stir fresh spinach into the hot soup. Cook for 2–3 minutes just until spinach is wilted but still vibrant green. Overcooking will make the spinach mushy and dull-colored.

Step 7 — Finish and Season

Return crispy bacon to the pot, reserving some for garnish. Season with ½ teaspoon black pepper and salt to taste. For extra richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream (optional).

Step 8 — Serve Hot

Ladle the Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup into bowls. Garnish with reserved bacon and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately while hot for the best texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Calories	320
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	12g
Fiber	10g
Sodium	680mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey bacon — Leaner protein with smoky flavor, reduces saturated fat.
• Chicken sausage — Hearty alternative with Italian or apple seasoning options.
• Cauliflower rice — Low-carb swap that blends seamlessly into the creamy base.
• Coconut milk — Rich dairy-free option that maintains creaminess without lactose.
• Kale or Swiss chard — Nutrient-dense greens with longer cooking resilience than spinach.
• Low-sodium broth — Controls salt intake while preserving savory depth.
• Nutritional yeast — Adds cheesy flavor for dairy-free, gluten-free diets.
• Lentils — Fiber-rich plant protein alternative to white beans.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup with crusty artisan bread or garlic toast for dipping into the rich broth.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the soup’s creamy texture.
• Perfect for chilly evenings, this comforting soup makes an excellent weeknight dinner or cozy weekend lunch.
• For a heartier meal, top with extra crispy bacon bits, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.
• Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful texture and colors of the white beans and spinach.
• This Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup is ideal for casual gatherings or potlucks, as it’s easy to make in large batches.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and fresh flavor just before serving.

Whether you’re looking for a simple family meal or a dish to impress guests, this versatile soup adapts beautifully to various occasions and presentations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using canned beans without rinsing. Fix: Always rinse canned beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and the starchy liquid that can make your Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup cloudy and overly salty.
• Mistake: Overcooking the spinach. Fix: Stir in fresh spinach just before serving; the residual heat will wilt it perfectly without turning it slimy or bitter.
• Mistake: Not rendering bacon fat properly. Fix: Cook bacon over medium heat until crisp to render the fat, which then becomes a flavorful base for sautéing your aromatics.
• Mistake: Adding dairy too early or at a boil. Fix: Stir in cream or milk off the heat to prevent curdling, ensuring a smooth, velvety texture for your creamy soup.
• Mistake: Using a weak broth. Fix: Opt for a robust, low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to build a deep flavor foundation that isn’t overshadowed by salt.
• Mistake: Skipping the immersion blender step. Fix: Briefly blend a portion of the soup to naturally thicken it and create a creamier body without relying too much on added heavy cream.
• Mistake: Underseasoning at the end. Fix: Bacon and broth vary in saltiness, so always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper after the soup is fully assembled.
• Mistake: Crowding the pot when browning bacon. Fix: Cook bacon in batches if necessary to ensure it crisps evenly and doesn’t steam, providing optimal texture and flavor.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store this Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

For best quality, avoid repeated reheating of this delicious soup.

Conclusion

This Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup is a comforting, easy meal perfect for any night. We hope you love it! Try the recipe, leave a comment with your review, and subscribe for more delicious dishes like our Garlic Butter Salmon with Spinach and Mushrooms Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I make this Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well. Let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it has thickened too much.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter version?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter Creamy White Bean & Bacon Spinach Soup. For a dairy-free option, use full-fat canned coconut milk, which will also provide a rich, creamy texture.

Can I use a different type of bean in this recipe?

Yes, cannellini beans are ideal, but great northern beans work well too. Avoid using red kidney beans as their firmer texture and stronger flavor don’t suit this particular creamy soup.