Name: The Best White Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cans (28oz – 800 grams) cannellini beans or white beans, drained; 1 medium-size onion, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 large carrot, diced; 1-2 garlic cloves, diced or pressed; 1 cup (7 oz – 200 grams) frozen spinach (optional); 2 medium-size potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks; 1 Tbsp olive oil, plus more for serving; 1 Tbsp tomato paste; 1/3 cup (80 ml) white wine; 1 sprig rosemary (or 1 Tbsp chopped fresh leaves / 1/2 tsp dried); 2 cups (500 ml) vegetable broth or hot water; 1/2 tsp paprika (optional); 1/2 tsp fine salt, plus more to taste; 1/8 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 82 reviews

If you’re craving a wholesome, comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than The Best White Bean Soup Recipe. This soup is creamy, hearty, and packed with nutritious ingredients like cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and fragrant rosemary. The magic is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a starring role, creating a velvety texture and a melody of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you serve it as a light lunch, a nourishing dinner, or a cozy starter, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your all-time favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the top left, there are two whole yellow potatoes. To the right, there are two small white cups, one filled with a clear liquid and the other with yellow oil. Below them is a small wooden bowl filled with white beans. Next to it on the right is a small white plate with salt and pepper. On the bottom left, there is a white bowl holding several frozen spinach balls covered with frost. A fresh sprig of green rosemary lies horizontally below the bowls. At the bottom, a wooden cutting board holds diced onions on the left, bright orange diced carrots in the center, diced green celery to the right, a few chopped garlic cloves near the edge, and a small pile of red tomato paste on the bottom right corner. The photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses simple but essential ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each element adds depth, creaminess, or a vibrant pop of color, making this soup not just tasty but visually inviting.

Cannellini beans or white beans (2 cans, 28 oz each): The creamy base that lends body and protein to the soup.
Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and a subtle aromatic foundation.
Celery stalk (1, diced): Brings a refreshing crunch and slight bitterness that balances richness.
Carrot (1 large, diced): Offers natural sweetness and a splash of color.
Garlic cloves (1-2, diced or pressed): For a burst of savory warmth and fragrance.
Frozen spinach (1 cup): Optional, but adds lovely greens and nutrients effortlessly.
Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and chunked): Their starch helps thicken the soup for that perfect creamy finish.
Olive oil (1 Tbsp plus extra for serving): Used for sautéing vegetables and adding richness on top.
Tomato paste (1 Tbsp): Deepens the flavor with a subtle tangy sweetness.
White wine (1/3 cup): Adds a delicate acidity and helps meld flavors beautifully.
Rosemary (1 sprig or 1 Tbsp chopped fresh / 1/2 tsp dried): Infuses a woody, piney fragrance that elevates the soup.
Vegetable broth or hot water (2 cups): The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
Paprika (1/2 tsp, optional): For a subtle smoky warmth.
Fine salt (1/2 tsp plus more): Enhances all flavors—season thoughtfully.
Black pepper (1/8 tsp plus more): Adds mild heat and complexity.

How to Make The Best White Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Start by warming olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it shimmers with promise. Toss in the diced onion, carrot, and celery, sautéing them gently. Stir often as these vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent—about 5 minutes—to develop a sweet, savory foundation that will make the soup sing.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Next, add the garlic, drained white beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary, and paprika if you’re using it. Stir everything frequently for about a minute. This step helps awaken the ingredients and meld their earthy, aromatic qualities together beautifully.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the white wine and give everything a good stir. Let it simmer just until the wine evaporates, roughly one minute, so that the delicate acidity enhances but never overpowers the dish.

Step 4: Add Greens and Broth

Stir in the frozen spinach for a vibrant touch, followed by the vegetable broth and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Turn up the heat until it boils, then cover the pot, reduce heat, and simmer gently for 15 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften and the flavors to fuse into creamy perfection.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Remove the pot from heat, take out the rosemary sprig if you used a whole one, and taste the soup. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate. Ladle into bowls and drizzle a bit more olive oil on top. For a fancy flourish, scatter freshly ground pepper or sprinkle grated parmesan if you’re not keeping it vegan. This is The Best White Bean Soup Recipe in its glorious, ready-to-enjoy form.

How to Serve The Best White Bean Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with thick, creamy soup that has three visible layers: the base is a smooth, light brown broth; mixed within are soft yellow chunks, small orange pieces, and creamy white beans, all combined with bits of green leafy herbs scattered throughout. A silver spoon scoops up a hearty portion, showing the chunky texture with distinct pieces of vegetables and beans, held above the bowl. The setting is on a wooden surface with a sprig of green herb blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A drizzle of good olive oil right before serving adds a fruity, peppery finish that complements the creamy soup wonderfully. If you enjoy cheese, a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan brings savory depth and richness. Freshly ground black pepper scattered on top adds a gentle zing and a pretty contrast.

Side Dishes

This soup shines brightest alongside hearty, crusty whole grain bread. Its firm texture and nutty flavor are perfect for dipping. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables also make light, healthful companions to this filling dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the soup in small, rustic bread bowls—perfect for casual gatherings that invite everyone to scoop and savor. For elegant dinners, garnish each bowl with a sprig of fresh rosemary or a tiny dollop of pesto for an herbal boost. Adding a swirl of coconut cream or vegan yogurt can introduce a lovely creaminess and visual appeal for plant-based fans.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup stays fresh and flavorful in the fridge for up to three days when kept in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making the next-day bowl even more delicious.

Freezing

The Best White Bean Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it out into airtight containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. Frozen, it will keep for up to two months without losing its soul-soothing charm.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to bring back its creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving at high power to preserve texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes! If you prefer dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the soup. This will deepen the bean flavor but adds prep time, so plan accordingly.

What can I substitute for the white wine?

If you’d rather skip the alcohol, replace the white wine with additional vegetable broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity. It won’t be exactly the same but still brings brightness.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Absolutely, as long as you avoid adding parmesan cheese or any non-vegan garnishes. The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making this a perfect choice for many dietary preferences.

Can I use fresh greens instead of frozen spinach?

Yes! Fresh spinach or alternatives like kale or chard work well. Add fresh spinach in the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking, while heartier greens might require a bit longer.

How do I make my own vegetable broth for this soup?

Simmer vegetable scraps like onion skins, carrot ends, celery leaves, and herbs in water for 5-10 minutes. Strain before using for a fresh, flavorful broth that elevates this soup even more.

Final Thoughts

Give The Best White Bean Soup Recipe a try on your next meal prep day or whenever you need something that’s comforting, nutritious, and simple to make. It’s a recipe that embraces the beauty of everyday ingredients and transforms them into something truly delightful. Once you taste it, this soup will earn a permanent place in your collection of go-to dishes. Enjoy every spoonful!