Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a bowl of pure comfort, I can’t recommend the Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup enough. This hearty soup brings together tender Great Northern beans, smoky thick-cut bacon, and a medley of fresh vegetables that simmer into a flavorful, soul-warming dish. It’s easy to make yet incredibly satisfying—perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something nourishing and delicious that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Once you try this Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients for this soup come together beautifully to create a balanced flavor and wonderful texture. Each component is simple but essential, from the creamy Great Northern beans to the crispy bacon bits that add that irresistible savory bite.

• Great Northern beans (1 cup): These mild, tender beans form the creamy base of the soup, soaking up all the savory flavors.
• Thick-cut bacon (6 oz): Adds smoky richness and a crunchy texture that takes the soup to the next level.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): Provides a sweet and aromatic foundation when sautéed in the bacon drippings.
• Carrots (2, chopped): Bring subtle sweetness and vibrant color to balance the savory notes.
• Celery stalks (2, chopped): Add a gentle crunch and depth of flavor that complements the other vegetables.
• Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the soup with an irresistible warmth and aroma.
• Low-sodium chicken broth (4 cups): The loving liquid that ties all the ingredients together without overpowering them.
• Dried thyme (1 tsp): Offers delicate herbal notes that round out the flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.

How to Make Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Start by rinsing your Great Northern beans under cold water. For the best texture, soak them overnight; this softens the beans and helps them cook evenly, ensuring your soup turns out creamy and tender.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, but don’t toss the drippings; they’re packed with flavor and will be the base for sautéing your veggies.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the bacon drippings, sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery for about five minutes until they soften and develop a lovely golden color. Then add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, allowing its fragrance to bloom.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Simmer

Return the crispy bacon back to the pot, then add the soaked beans, chicken broth, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about an hour, or until the beans are melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the beans are tender, give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup should be savory, balanced, and bursting with comforting flavors.

How to Serve Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the hearty soup. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a bit of shredded cheddar for extra richness if you’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread or warm cornbread. The bread irons soak up the flavorful broth and add a pleasant chewy contrast that makes every spoonful even more enjoyable.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve your Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup in rustic bowls sprinkled with extra bacon bits on top. You can also ladle it over a bed of cooked rice or grains for a more filling meal. If hosting guests, consider mini bread bowls that make serving both fun and elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for up to four days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or a quick weekday dinner.

Freezing

To freeze, let the soup cool completely before spooning it into freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to three months and is a lifesaver on busy days when you crave something homemade but don’t have much time.

Reheating

Reheat by gently warming the soup on the stove over medium-low heat or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned Great Northern beans work well. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the pot and reduce the simmering time since they’re already cooked.

Is there a vegetarian version of Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup?

Yes! Simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to bring in the smoky flavor that bacon usually provides.

Can I use a slow cooker to make this soup?

Definitely! After sautéing the bacon and vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the beans, broth, and seasonings, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beans are tender.

What can I substitute for Great Northern beans?

Navy beans or cannellini beans are great substitutes as they have a similar texture and mild flavor that won’t overpower the soup.

How thick should the Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup be?

The soup should be thick and hearty but still spoonable. If it’s too thick after cooking, just stir in a little extra broth or water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Making the Cozy Bean with Bacon Soup is like giving yourself a big, warm hug on chilly days. It’s simple, comforting, and filled with so much flavor that everyone at your table will be asking for seconds. Give it a try soon—you might just have found your new favorite soup for all seasons.

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