White Bean and Leek Soup with Garlic Breadcrumbs

Name: White Bean and Leek Soup with Garlic Breadcrumbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nourish & Refresh Recipes

Warm up with this comforting white bean and leek soup topped with crunchy garlic breadcrumbs.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-11T18:53:04.836Z

This white bean and leek soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any time of year. The creamy base is enhanced by the crunch of garlic breadcrumbs, making it a satisfying meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and hearty texture that warms you from the inside out
Garlic breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch and flavor
Simple ingredients come together for a deliciously comforting dish

      

The Comfort of Homemade Soup

There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially during chilly evenings or rainy afternoons. This White Bean and Leek Soup is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can transform into a heartwarming dish. With each spoonful, you’ll experience the creamy texture that envelops you in warmth, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Homemade soups not only nourish the body but also the soul. They invite you to slow down and savor each bite, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors that develop from cooking with fresh ingredients. This recipe is straightforward enough for beginners, yet it delivers a gourmet taste that will impress even the most discerning palates.

Highlighting the Ingredients

The key to this soup’s success lies in its ingredients. Leeks bring a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of white beans. They are often overlooked but are a fantastic addition to any soup, lending both depth and a slight onion flavor without overwhelming the dish. Combined with fresh garlic and aromatic thyme, this dish is a celebration of flavors.

White beans not only offer a creamy texture but are also packed with protein and fiber, making this soup a nutritious option. The addition of heavy cream enhances the richness, creating a velvety consistency that is utterly satisfying. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious blend that is both comforting and fulfilling.

Perfect Pairings

This White Bean and Leek Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup. Fresh crusty bread or warm rolls can also complement the dish, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the velvety soup.

If you're looking to elevate your dining experience, a glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, can enhance the flavors beautifully. For a heartier meal, add a side of roasted vegetables or a charcuterie board for a delightful contrast. This soup is versatile, making it an excellent choice for various occasions.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream

For the Garlic Breadcrumbs

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Breadcrumbs

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in breadcrumbs, season with salt and pepper, and toast until golden brown. Set aside.

Cook the Leeks

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced leeks and cook until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Broth and Beans

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the white beans and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through.

Serve

Serve the soup hot, topped with the garlic breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty soup!

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This White Bean and Leek Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place it in an airtight container and it will be ready for another meal. The flavors will continue to meld and deepen, making it even more delicious the next day.

To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, you may want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This makes for a quick and easy lunch or dinner option that’s just as comforting as when it was freshly made.

Customization Options

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit your taste preferences. If you're looking to add some color and extra nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. These greens will wilt nicely and add a vibrant touch to your soup. For a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be stirred in as well.

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, simply omit the heavy cream or substitute it with a plant-based cream. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil to give the soup a unique twist. This flexibility makes the soup an excellent canvas for your culinary creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the garlic breadcrumbs before freezing.

→ What can I use instead of leeks?

You can substitute leeks with onions or shallots if needed.

→ How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.