Navy Bean And Bacon Soup
A hearty Navy Bean and Bacon Soup combines creamy beans, smoky bacon, and aromatic vegetables for a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for cold days and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In an 8-quart Dutch oven or large saucepot over high heat, bring beans and water to a boil.
- Boil for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, cover, and let the beans stand for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke. If you're short on time, canned navy beans can be substituted—just skip the soaking step and reduce the cooking time. To enhance the soup, add diced carrots or a splash of vinegar before serving for a pop of acidity.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Navy Bean and Bacon Soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can brighten the dish. This soup pairs beautifully with Baked Potato And Fried Chicken for a comforting dinner or can be enjoyed on its own for a filling lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. It can also be microwaved in short intervals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Navy Bean And Bacon Soup contains roughly 459 calories, with 13g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (132% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), and iron (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 913mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of beans in this soup?
Yes, while navy beans are traditional, you can substitute with great northern or cannellini beans. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially if using dried beans; adjust accordingly for softer textures.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can enhance the umami flavor by adding mushrooms or smoked paprika. Beans will still provide protein and a hearty texture.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).