Campbell’s Bean Soup Recipe

Campbell’s Bean Soup is an iconic comfort food, one of those dishes that brings an immediate sense of warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction. The rich, savory flavors of beans, seasoned with a mix of aromatic herbs and vegetables, combined with Campbell’s signature taste, make it a household favorite for many. Whether you’re curled up on a chilly evening or looking for a quick meal that the whole family can enjoy, this soup is a reliable go-to.

Making Campbell’s Bean Soup from scratch can feel like an impressive culinary feat, but the beauty of this recipe is that it’s simple, accessible, and oh-so-delicious. It’s the kind of soup that comforts the soul while filling the stomach. Let’s dive into the specifics of how you can recreate this warm, hearty dish at home with ease.

Campbell’s Bean Soup Recipe

This version of Campbell’s Bean Soup is a perfect blend of classic ingredients with a bit of flair for added depth. The beans are the star, of course, but they are supported by a savory broth, fresh vegetables, and a mix of seasoning that elevates the overall flavor.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 can (15 oz) of Campbell’s® Bean Soup
• 1 cup of water or vegetable broth (depending on your preference for richness)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by prepping your fresh ingredients. Dice the onion, chop the celery, slice the carrot, and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then add the garlic, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally for another 4-5 minutes. This will help bring out the sweetness and depth in the vegetables.
3. Combine the soup base: Pour in the can of Campbell’s® Bean Soup, then add your water or vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine everything evenly.
4. Season the soup: Add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to distribute the spices throughout the broth.
5. Simmer: Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender. The longer it simmers, the more pronounced the flavors will become.
6. Adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Add more salt or pepper as desired.
7. Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and, if desired, top with shredded cheese or a splash of hot sauce.

Ingredient Insights

To truly appreciate the flavors of Campbell’s Bean Soup, it’s essential to understand the role each ingredient plays. Here’s a deeper look at the key components:

• Beans: The backbone of the soup. Beans, whether you use white beans or kidney beans, provide a rich source of fiber, protein, and complex carbohydrates. They absorb the seasonings well, giving the broth a full-bodied taste.
• Olive Oil: A touch of olive oil helps sauté the aromatics and gives the soup a smooth, rich texture. Plus, it brings in healthy fats that balance the dish.
• Onions and Garlic: These two ingredients are the foundation of flavor. When sautéed, they develop a natural sweetness and provide a savory base for the soup.
• Carrots and Celery: These classic “mirepoix” vegetables give the soup its earthy, fresh flavor and provide color and texture. Carrots bring a natural sweetness, while celery adds a subtle herbal note.
• Herbs: Bay leaf and thyme are commonly used in bean soups to enhance the overall taste. Bay leaves contribute a depth of flavor that simmers into the soup over time, while thyme adds a slightly lemony, pine-like fragrance.
• Broth: The choice between water or vegetable broth makes a big difference. Vegetable broth adds more flavor complexity and richness, while water keeps the soup lighter, letting the other ingredients shine.

Expert Tips

• Use Dry Beans for Extra Flavor: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap the canned beans for dried beans. Just remember to soak them overnight and cook them thoroughly. This extra step adds a homemade depth of flavor to the soup.
• Don’t Skip the Sautéing: The key to this soup’s flavor lies in how well the vegetables are sautéed at the beginning. Take your time and let them soften and caramelize slightly before adding the broth.
• Simmer Slowly: The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors will come together. If you have the time, simmer the soup for an hour or even longer on a very low heat. This will give you a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
• Blend for Creaminess: For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup. Using an immersion blender, blend about a third of the soup and stir it back in. This will give you a creamier base without losing the rustic texture of the beans.
• Taste As You Go: Every batch of soup is different, depending on the beans, broth, and other factors. Taste your soup as it simmers and adjust seasoning as necessary. A pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Bean Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to give the soup a kick. The heat pairs wonderfully with the earthy beans.
• Ham and Bean Soup: Add chopped ham to the pot for a meaty, savory twist. The saltiness from the ham complements the beans perfectly.
• Vegetarian Option: To keep the soup entirely plant-based, stick with vegetable broth and use vegan cheese or a dollop of cashew cream on top for a creamy finish.
• Mexican-Inspired: Spice things up with some cumin, coriander, and a squeeze of lime juice. Top with avocado and cilantro for a zesty flair.
• Hearty Bean and Kale Soup: Add a few handfuls of kale towards the end of the cooking process. The kale adds texture, flavor, and a nutritional boost.

Final Words

Campbell’s Bean Soup is the epitome of simple, satisfying comfort food. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a soup that’s bursting with flavor, filling enough for a meal, and quick enough for a weeknight dinner. It’s versatile, forgiving, and perfect for any occasion, from a casual lunch to a hearty dinner.

Whether you follow the basic recipe or get creative with variations, this bean soup is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. And with a few expert tips, you can elevate it to something truly memorable.