There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of White Bean and Beef Soup. Packed with hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and plenty of nutrition, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a wholesome, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple pantry staples.
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Why You’ll Love This White Bean and Beef Soup
- Hearty and Filling: Protein-packed beef and creamy white beans make this soup a meal in itself.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Ingredients for White Bean and Beef Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or diced beef for a chunkier texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (like cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Ladle for serving
How to Make White Bean and Beef Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
- Add the diced tomatoes, thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Reduce the heat to low, add the white beans, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for a complete meal.
- Pair with a light green salad for added freshness.
Tips for the Best White Bean and Beef Soup
- Customize the Veggies: Add zucchini, potatoes, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.
- Boost the Spice: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Make It Ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Soak and cook dried white beans ahead of time and add them during the simmering step.
Q2: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based protein or extra beans, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Q3: Can I add pasta to this soup?
A: Yes! Small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni works well. Add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort
This White Bean and Beef Soup is everything you need in a hearty meal—warm, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or serving a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 7g
Enjoy every spoonful of this hearty soup, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family!
PrintWhite Bean and Beef Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Description
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of White Bean and Beef Soup. Packed with hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and plenty of nutrition, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a wholesome, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple pantry staples.
Subscribe to our newsletter for more cozy recipes delivered straight to your inbox!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or diced beef for a chunkier texture)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (like cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
- Add the diced tomatoes, thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Reduce the heat to low, add the white beans, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- Customize the Veggies: Add zucchini, potatoes, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.
- Boost the Spice: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Make It Ahead: The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: American