A warm, comforting bowl of Creamy White Bean, Turkey Bacon & Noodle Soup makes any meal feel like home. With a nourishing blend of fiber-rich beans, smoky turkey bacon, and tender pasta in a silky, herb-infused broth, this recipe is ideal for chilly nights, meal prep, or quick weeknight dinners.
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
6 oz small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped turkey bacon and cook until lightly crisped. Remove a spoonful for garnish if desired.
Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
Stir in thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and white beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Add the pasta and cook until tender, according to package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Lower the heat and stir in the cream and Parmesan cheese, if using. Simmer gently for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring to combine and thicken the soup slightly.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley and reserved turkey bacon before serving if desired.
Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
If freezing, omit the cream and add it when reheating.
Stir pasta often during cooking to prevent sticking.
Garnish with extra cheese or bacon for added texture.
For a gluten-free version, use certified GF pasta.