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White Bean Soup with Parmesan

White Bean Soup with Parmesan

Cozy up with creamy White Bean Soup with Parmesan, a hearty and flavorful dish that blends tender white beans, savory Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and a rich broth. This comforting soup is perfect for warming your soul on chilly days, offering a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Variations

  • Cooked sausage, bacon, or pancetta (for meaty boost)
  • Chopped kale, spinach, or carrots (for vegetable medley)
  • Red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or cayenne (to spice it up)
  • Nutritional yeast or vegan cheese (for dairy-free alternative)
  • Lemon juice or vinegar (for brightness)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavorful base of the soup.
  2. Add Herbs and Broth: Sprinkle in fresh rosemary and thyme, stirring gently to release their aroma. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a simmer so the flavors meld beautifully.
  3. Incorporate the Beans: Add the drained and rinsed white beans to the pot, stirring them in carefully. Let the soup simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the beans to soak up the herby broth and soften even more.
  4. Blend Half for Creaminess: Using an immersion blender, puree about half the soup directly in the pot. This creates a creamy texture while retaining some whole bean chunks for a lovely bite.
  5. Stir in Parmesan: Remove the pot from heat and whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined, enriching the soup with its signature savory flavor.
  6. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the soup hot with your favorite garnishes for an inviting meal.

Notes

  • Use quality fresh Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for better flavor and melting.
  • Simmer the soup gently to let the beans absorb flavors without breaking down too much.
  • Reserve a small portion of beans to add back at the end for texture diversity.
  • If the soup becomes too thick after blending, thin it out with additional broth or a little water.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the flavors if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: white bean soup, parmesan soup, creamy bean soup, hearty soup, vegetarian soup, gluten free soup, comfort food