When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like a warm and hearty bowl of bean soup. Beans are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, offering a rich source of protein, fiber, and nutrients. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and spicy, there’s a bean soup recipe out there to suit your taste buds.
From creamy and indulgent to smoky and savory, our collection of 16 Hearty Bean Soup Recipes is packed with inspiration for cozy nights in. With flavors ranging from traditional to international, you’ll find the perfect bowl to warm up on a chilly day or satisfy your hunger after a long day. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most mouthwatering and satisfying bean soup recipes out there, so grab a spoon and let’s get cooking!
Classic Ham and Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a comforting classic, perfect for a chilly evening or a warm lunch. With tender ham, creamy beans, and aromatic vegetables, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal to enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound diced cooked ham
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add ham, beans, broth, tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Spicy Black Bean Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of spices and beans that will warm your belly and soul. With its rich aroma and spicy kick, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy White Bean and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of comfort food and nutrition. Made with cannellini beans, kale, garlic, and onions, this creamy soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the kale leaves and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with some chopped kale leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines smoky chipotle peppers with creamy beans and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chipotle pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the black beans and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Bean and Sausage Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines tender beans, savory sausage, and aromatic herbs. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked cannellini beans (canned or cooked from scratch)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beans, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetarian Three-Bean Chili Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring a trio of beans, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans (or canned)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Fiesta Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the warmth of Mexico with the comfort of a cozy bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, scallions, or a dollop of sour cream (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Bean Minestrone
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of lentils and beans with a flavorful blend of vegetables, creating a satisfying and comforting minestrone soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional (for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, kidney beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Slow Cooker 16-Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a staple of home cooking, made with a medley of 16 different beans for a rich and satisfying flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried mixed beans (16-bean blend)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Moroccan Chickpea and Bean Soup
Experience the rich flavors of Morocco with this hearty and comforting chickpea and bean soup, made with aromatic spices and tender beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, kidney beans, broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Curried Red Lentil and Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired flavors, packed with protein-rich lentils and beans. A cozy and nutritious meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lentils, beans, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
French Onion and White Bean Soup
French Onion and White Bean Soup Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of rich flavors with this hearty French Onion and White Bean Soup recipe. A classic combination of caramelized onions, tender beans, and aromatic spices will warm your soul on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, Gruyère cheese, and thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Greek Lemon and Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the bright flavors of Greece with the comforting warmth of a traditional bean soup. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a burst of citrusy freshness to this satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the beans and soak them in water overnight. Drain and rinse again.
2. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or oregano if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cajun 16-Bean Gumbo Soup
Warm up with this hearty, comforting Cajun-inspired soup that combines the rich flavors of Andouille sausage and dark roux with a medley of 16 beans for a true Louisiana experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dark roux (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 16 beans (kidney, pinto, black, navy, red kidney, Great Northern, lima, cranberry, and more), soaked overnight and drained
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in roux; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broth, water, beans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai Coconut and Bean Soup
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of coconut milk with the creamy texture of kidney beans, all wrapped up in a warm and aromatic package. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in kidney beans, coconut milk, broth, ginger, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rustic Italian Bean and Pasta Soup
Warm up with this hearty, comforting soup that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (6 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, pasta, vegetable broth, and oregano.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 16 hearty bean soup recipes that are sure to warm your heart and belly. From classic combinations like ham and beans to bold flavors like spicy black beans and smoky chipotle, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a vegetarian or meat-lover, there’s a recipe to suit your taste. With soups ranging from creamy white bean and kale to Moroccan chickpea and bean, you’ll never get bored with these deliciously comforting options. So grab a spoon and dig in!
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