Sunday Creamy White Bean Soup

Name: Sunday Creamy White Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley for garnishing

Highlighted under: Natural Collection

I absolutely adore this Sunday Creamy White Bean Soup! There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy soup that warms you from the inside out. The blend of white beans with aromatic herbs and spices makes it not only delicious but also nutritious. On lazy Sunday afternoons, there's nothing better than making a big pot of this soup to enjoy with family or friends. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you'll have a perfect meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:15:36.470Z

When I first made this soup, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a rich and satisfying dish. The creamy texture mainly comes from the blended white beans, which also adds a good amount of protein. Don't skip sautéing the onions and garlic—this step builds the flavor foundation for the soup.

I love how versatile this recipe is. Sometimes I add in extra vegetables like spinach or kale at the end for added nutrition. Serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs enhances the flavors and adds a beautiful touch to the presentation.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that's both comforting and satisfying
Nutritious and packed with protein from white beans
Perfect for cozy Sunday gatherings or a quick weeknight meal

      

Understanding the Base Ingredients

The heart of this creamy white bean soup lies in the quality of your white beans. Canned options are convenient, but for an even better flavor and creaminess, consider using dried beans. If you choose dried, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the pot. This method yields a richer taste and allows you to control the texture more than canned versions.

Onions and garlic play crucial roles in building the flavor base for this soup. The onions should become translucent and slightly golden before you add the garlic, as this will enhance the sweetness and depth of the soup. Keep an eye on your heat, as burning the garlic can impart a bitter taste. A wooden spoon works well for stirring and checking for even cooking.

Technique for Creaminess

Blending the soup is what transforms it into the creamy delight you’re after. Using an immersion blender is the easiest method, as it allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot without transferring it. Blend until the soup is velvety smooth, which typically takes about 1-2 minutes. If you desire a chunkier soup, set aside some beans before blending, and stir them in afterward for texture.

If you find your soup is too thick after blending, you can easily remedy this. Simply stir in additional vegetable broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. The beauty of this soup is its flexibility—you can customize it based on personal preference, warming it up for a cozy meal or serving it at a gathering.

Ingredients

Creamy White Bean Soup

2 cans (15 oz each) of white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley for garnishing

Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Beans and Broth

Add the drained white beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can reserve some whole beans before blending and stir them back in.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy with crusty bread on the side.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. A splash of lemon juice just before serving balances the flavors beautifully.

Ingredient Variations

This creamy white bean soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to adding different flavors. For a fresh twist, consider incorporating spinach or kale towards the end of cooking; these greens will wilt beautifully and add extra nutrients. You could also introduce herbs like rosemary or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness—experimenting with these can elevate your soup's flavor profile.

If you want to add a spicy kick, try including diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when sautéing the onions. This provides a nice contrast to the richness of the beans. For a non-dairy option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, which adds a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory aspects of the soup.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup thrives on being made ahead! Prepare it on a lazy Saturday and let it sit in the fridge overnight. The flavors will meld even more, resulting in a more harmonious taste come Sunday. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, so feel free to whip up a double batch for quick lunches or light dinners throughout the week.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions. Use airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems too thick after defrosting.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Use about 1.5 cups of dried white beans for this recipe.

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! It freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat when ready to enjoy.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully with the soup.

→ How can I make it vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure that your vegetable broth is free from animal products.