Creamy White Bean Soup With Spinach

Name: Creamy White Bean Soup With Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely adore making this Creamy White Bean Soup with Spinach for its delightful flavors and nourishing ingredients. The combination of creamy cannellini beans and fresh spinach creates a comfort dish that's not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. I love how easy it is to prepare, and it fills the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma as it simmers. Whether it's a chilly evening or a busy weekday, this soup has become a go-to for me, offering a bowlful of warmth and heartiness in every spoonful.

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:45:35.784Z

When I first tried making this Creamy White Bean Soup with Spinach, I was amazed at how simple yet elegant it turned out. The trick is to blend some of the beans into the broth, which gives it a velvety texture while keeping some whole for that satisfying bite. I also love adding a touch of lemon juice at the end to elevate the flavors, balancing the creaminess with a hint of brightness.

This soup has quickly become a family favorite. I often serve it with crusty bread on the side, and it’s equally delightful for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing, making it perfect for picky eaters!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich creaminess that warms the soul
Nutritious spinach blends perfectly with hearty beans
Quick to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

This Creamy White Bean Soup relies on a few key ingredients that each play a significant role in building flavor and texture. The cannellini beans are not only packed with protein, but they also provide a creamy base once blended, contributing to the soup's luxurious mouthfeel. If you're looking for a substitute, great northern beans can be used, but keep in mind that they have a slightly different texture and flavor. Always opt for low-sodium vegetable broth to control the salt level in the dish.

Fresh spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients and adds a vibrant color to this soup. When choosing spinach, look for bright green, tender leaves without any yellowing. If you want to make this recipe even heartier, consider mixing in kale or Swiss chard. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these greens may need a bit more time to soften.

Perfecting Your Technique

When sautéing the onions and garlic, aim for a gentle heat. Cooking them over medium heat ensures that they become soft and translucent without burning, which is crucial for developing a deep flavor base. I often check the onions for a glossy appearance and a fragrant aroma before adding in the garlic. Remember, garlic can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on it and stir consistently for that one minute.

Blending the soup is a key moment in achieving its creamy texture. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches to prevent splattering and burns. It's entirely valid to leave some whole beans for a nice textural contrast. If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a greater proportion of beans, keeping in mind that the final consistency can be adjusted by adding more broth or water as needed.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious soup:

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a comforting bowl of soup.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Creamy White Bean Soup:

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Add beans and broth

Add the rinsed cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.

Blend for creaminess

Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree part of the soup until smooth while leaving some beans whole for texture.

Stir in spinach

Add the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

Your delicious soup is now ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This soup is ideal for meal prep! You can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Just be mindful that the spinach may lose some color over time, but it will still taste delicious. If you're planning to freeze it, I recommend storing the soup without spinach, as freezing can cause the leaves to become mushy. Simply add fresh spinach when reheating.

When reheating, do so over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much after refrigeration, add a splash of broth to bring it back to the desired consistency. On a busy weeknight, this could be the perfect solution—quick, nourishing comfort at your fingertips!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy White Bean Soup experience, consider adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese just before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice can also enhance the brightness of flavors, cutting through the rich creaminess of the soup. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet remains healthy.

For a fun twist, think about serving the soup with toppings like croutons, toasted seeds, or fresh herbs such as parsley or basil. Each topping can add a different texture and flavor dimension, enhancing the overall experience. You can let your creativity shine by even adding grilled chicken or roasted vegetables on top for a more hearty bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just thaw and drain it before adding.

→ How long will the soup last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Just ensure the vegetable broth is vegan and skip any dairy toppings.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese for a complete meal.