Hearty, wholesome, and brimming with comforting flavor, this White Bean & Greens Soup is everything you want in a cozy meal. Tender cannellini beans, fresh kale and spinach, and sweet carrots simmer together in a garlicky, savory broth topped with a shower of freshly grated Parmesan. It’s the kind of simple, nourishing bowl that tastes like home.

This soup is perfect for those crisp fall or winter evenings, but it’s light enough to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight dinner or prepping lunches for the week, this is a satisfying meatless option that’s budget-friendly and packed with nutrition.

What Kind of Greens Should I Use?

This soup is wonderfully flexible. Kale adds texture and a mild bitterness that balances the richness of the beans and broth, while spinach wilts quickly into tender bites. You can also mix in Swiss chard or collard greens if you prefer. The key is to use sturdy greens that complement the creamy beans without overpowering them.

Ingredients for the White Bean & Greens Soup

Cannellini Beans – These soft white beans are creamy and mild, absorbing all the savory flavors of the broth.

Carrots – Add natural sweetness and a pop of color to balance the earthiness of the greens.

Celery – Offers a gentle crunch and savory depth to the base.

Yellow Onion – Essential for a fragrant flavor foundation.

Garlic – Don’t hold back on garlic; it brings soul to the broth.

Vegetable Broth – A flavorful base that keeps this soup vegetarian-friendly.

Kale & Spinach – A mix of hearty and tender greens adds complexity and nutrients.

Olive Oil – For sautéing the aromatics and adding richness.

Red Pepper Flakes – Just a pinch for a subtle kick.

Parmesan Cheese – Grated on top for a salty, umami-packed finish.

Salt & Black Pepper – To season everything just right.

How To Make the White Bean & Greens Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6-8 minutes until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add the drained cannellini beans and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let the soup simmer gently for 15-20 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 3: Add the Greens

Stir in chopped kale first since it takes longer to soften. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add spinach and cook just until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Serve with Parmesan

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Serving and Storing This Cozy Soup

Serve this soup hot with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of good olive oil. It’s perfect alongside a hunk of sourdough or a slice of cornbread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight.

For freezing, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

What to Serve With White Bean & Greens Soup?

Crusty Artisan Bread

Ideal for dunking and soaking up all that brothy goodness.

Baked Parmesan Potatoes

For a hearty side, try our Parmesan Baked Potatoes.

Garden Salad

Light and refreshing with a lemon vinaigrette.

Southern Deviled Eggs

Creamy and savory – a classic Southern touch. Southern Deviled Eggs

Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Rich and comforting; great if you want something indulgent. Scalloped Potatoes

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

Savory and sweet for an earthy pairing. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Creamy Cranberry Salad

The tangy-sweet twist adds balance. Cranberry Salad

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you enjoyed this cozy bowl, try these delicious soups next:

Cheeseburger Soup for a meaty, cheesy indulgence.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for bold and creamy comfort.
Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup when you’re craving something smooth and tangy.
Crockpot Ham and Potato Soup for a slow-cooked classic.
Turkey Vegetable Soup that’s light but filling.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a squeeze of lemon or a handful of orzo? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

White Bean & Greens Soup with Kale, Spinach, and Parmesan

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Warm up your weeknights with this hearty and wholesome White Bean & Greens Soup. It’s a cozy bowl of creamy cannellini beans, sweet carrots, and nutrient-rich kale and spinach in a garlicky broth, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan. Perfect for a quick dinner or light lunch, this satisfying soup checks all the boxes—healthy, budget-friendly, and big on flavor. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, a healthy snack option, or a go-to soup for meal prep, this one-pot wonder is a nourishing answer for all seasons.