A warm, nourishing bowl of Homemade White Bean Soup is like a hug in a bowl. With its comforting blend of creamy cannellini beans, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this dish is simplicity at its most delicious. It comes together quickly with pantry staples and fresh veggies, making it a weeknight hero and a cozy weekend lunch alike.

Whether you’re trying to eat more plant-based meals or just want a hearty, wholesome dinner, this soup delivers. It’s rich in fiber and protein, easy on the budget, and endlessly customizable. Add a sprinkle of parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a hunk of crusty bread on the side and you’ve got a meal worth savoring.
What Kind of White Beans Should I Use?
Cannellini beans are the top choice for this soup. Their creamy texture and slightly nutty flavor make them perfect for absorbing the savory broth and mingling with the other ingredients. However, great northern beans or navy beans work beautifully too. If you’re in a rush, canned beans save time, but if you want more depth, try using dried beans and cooking them yourself.
Ingredients for the Homemade White Bean Soup
- Cannellini Beans: The heart of the dish, providing creaminess and protein.
- Carrots: Bring sweetness and color to every bite.
- Celery: Adds aromatic depth and balances the flavors.
- Onion & Garlic: A flavorful base that starts the soup off right.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and finishing with a silky touch.
- Tomato Paste: Introduces umami and a rich tomato backbone.
- Vegetable Broth: The savory base that ties everything together.
- Kale: Adds a leafy green boost and makes this soup even more wholesome.
- Parmesan Rind (optional): A secret weapon for extra savory flavor.
- Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning: Essential for seasoning every layer.
How To Make the Homemade White Bean Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for another 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Step 2: Simmer the Base
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the cannellini beans, Italian seasoning, and parmesan rind (if using). Simmer gently for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Add the Greens
Stir in chopped kale and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the kale is tender but still vibrant.
Step 4: Season and Serve
Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Remove the parmesan rind, ladle into bowls, and garnish with grated parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Serving and Storing Homemade White Bean Soup
This soup is perfect hot off the stove, but it also stores like a dream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months—just leave out the kale and add it fresh when reheating for best texture.
What to Serve With Homemade White Bean Soup?
Crusty Artisan Bread
The soup begs for dunking! A crusty loaf is the perfect companion.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
The ultimate cozy combo, especially on cold days.
Simple Green Salad
A crisp side salad balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables
Think roasted carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
Garlic Bread
If you want to go big on comfort, buttery garlic bread is the move.
Parmesan Crisps
For a crunchy topper or side, these are addictive and easy to make.
Quiche or Savory Tart
Makes it a brunch-worthy affair.
Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?
If you loved this homemade white bean soup, here are a few other cozy bowls you might fall for too:
- Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for velvety, cheesy comfort.
- Tuscan Bean Soup packed with herbs and rustic flavors.
- Italian Sausage Soup if you crave heartiness with a spicy kick.
- Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup when you want a little global flair.
- 20 Minute Broccoli Cheese Soup for a fast, satisfying fix.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it on a chilly night.
I’d love to hear your take—did you use kale or swap in spinach? Toss in pasta? Let’s make this soup your own. Leave a comment below with your twist or any questions!
Explore even more feel-good, health-boosting meals at Chef Alchemy’s Pinterest for your daily dose of cozy food inspiration.
Homemade White Bean Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Need a nourishing, wholesome dinner that warms you from the inside out? This Homemade White Bean Soup is everything you crave in one hearty bowl. Packed with protein-rich cannellini beans, vibrant veggies, and fragrant herbs, it’s a cozy and quick dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights or slow weekends. Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping it up fresh, this easy recipe brings simple ingredients to life in the most satisfying way. It’s plant-based, loaded with fiber, and brimming with flavor—perfect for lunch ideas, light dinners, or healthy snacks. This is one of those food ideas you’ll keep coming back to.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups chopped kale
1 parmesan rind (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated parmesan, for serving
Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 6–8 minutes until soft.
2. Add garlic and tomato paste. Stir and cook for 2 more minutes to deepen the flavor.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add beans, Italian seasoning, and parmesan rind (if using). Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in kale and cook for another 5–10 minutes until tender.
5. Remove parmesan rind. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil and grated parmesan on top.
Notes
For best texture, add kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Skip the parmesan rind for a fully vegan version, or swap in a spoonful of miso for umami.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: white bean soup, healthy soup recipe, easy dinner, kale soup, vegetarian soup, comfort food, quick lunch
