why make this recipe
Crispy Bacon Pasta and White Bean Soup is a comforting dish that combines the heartiness of pasta and beans with the rich flavor of crispy bacon. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and nutrients from the beans and greens. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious yet simple.
how to make Crispy Bacon Pasta and White Bean Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach or kale
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Directions
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add the white beans, cooked pasta, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the spinach or kale and cook until wilted.
- Serve hot, topped with the crispy bacon and grated Parmesan cheese.
how to serve Crispy Bacon Pasta and White Bean Soup
Serve this soup hot in bowls. Top each serving with the crispy bacon and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. You can also add a slice of crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
how to store Crispy Bacon Pasta and White Bean Soup
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much, you can add a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
tips to make Crispy Bacon Pasta and White Bean Soup
- Use your favorite type of pasta. Short pasta shapes like rotini or penne work well.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.
- If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- For a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth.
variation
You can customize this recipe by using different greens, like Swiss chard or arugula. Additionally, you can swap the white beans for chickpeas or kidney beans based on your preference.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will taste great even after a day or two!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to let it cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even a light sandwich. Enjoy it as a hearty meal or a filling starter.
Crispy Bacon Pasta and White Bean Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta Use your favorite type of pasta.
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed Alternatively, use chickpeas or kidney beans.
- 6 slices bacon, chopped For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 cups spinach or kale You can also use Swiss chard or arugula.
- for serving Grated Parmesan cheese Add additional cheese for extra flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, add the white beans, cooked pasta, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the spinach or kale and cook until wilted.
Serving
- Serve hot, topped with the crispy bacon and grated Parmesan cheese.