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 cups cooked white beans (canned or homemade); 2 leeks, cleaned and sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; Parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Simple Recipes

This hearty white bean and leek soup is topped with crispy garlic breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-11T16:42:06.127Z

This white bean and leek soup is a comforting dish that combines the creaminess of white beans with the mild sweetness of leeks. The addition of garlic breadcrumbs not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch to each spoonful.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that is both satisfying and comforting
Deliciously savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from leeks
The crunchy garlic breadcrumbs elevate the dish beautifully
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

A Cozy Culinary Experience

White Bean and Leek Soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that warms both the body and soul. The creamy texture of the soup, enriched by the natural starches from the white beans, creates a comforting embrace with each spoonful. With the addition of leeks, this dish captures a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet notes, making it a perfect companion for chilly evenings or rainy days.

This soup is versatile and easy to customize. Whether you prefer a smoother consistency or enjoy the rustic charm of whole beans, you can adjust the texture to your liking. The flavors deepen as the soup simmers, allowing you to expand on its base with herbs or spices that suit your palate. This makes it an ideal recipe for experimenting and personalizing to your taste.

The Perfect Topping: Garlic Breadcrumbs

Adding crispy garlic breadcrumbs to your soup transforms it from a simple dish into a gourmet delight. The crunch of the breadcrumbs provides a wonderful contrast to the velvety smoothness of the soup, enhancing the overall dining experience. The rich flavor of sautéed garlic infuses the breadcrumbs, adding a layer of depth that complements the leeks beautifully.

Not only do the garlic breadcrumbs boost flavor, but they also offer a delightful texture that keeps your taste buds engaged. This easy-to-make topping can be prepared in just minutes, making it a convenient addition to the soup. Plus, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for later use on salads or other soups, ensuring no delicious morsel goes to waste.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

White Bean and Leek Soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the soup, creating a well-rounded dining experience. Additionally, serving it with crusty bread or a warm baguette allows you to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

Consider serving this soup as a starter at your next dinner party. Its elegant presentation, especially when garnished with fresh parsley and crispy breadcrumbs, will impress your guests. You can also offer a selection of toppings, such as grated parmesan or a drizzle of truffle oil, allowing everyone to personalize their bowl. This interactive element adds a fun twist to your meal and makes it memorable.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 cups cooked white beans (canned or homemade)
2 leeks, cleaned and sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)

For the Garlic Breadcrumbs

1 cup breadcrumbs
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
Parsley for garnish (optional)

Ensure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Soup

In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced leeks, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Beans and Broth

Add the cooked white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender in batches. Adjust the consistency with more broth if needed.

Prepare Garlic Breadcrumbs

In a small skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and breadcrumbs, stirring frequently until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. Season with a pinch of salt.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, top with crispy garlic breadcrumbs, and garnish with parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Pair this soup with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing White Bean and Leek Soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers. This way, you can easily heat up a comforting bowl whenever you crave it.

Reheating the soup is easy and can be done on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened while stored, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Gently heat until warmed through, and then top with fresh garlic breadcrumbs for that delightful crunch once again.

Nutritional Benefits

This White Bean and Leek Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. White beans are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you full for longer. They also provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and magnesium, which are vital for overall health.

Leeks, a member of the onion family, are low in calories yet rich in antioxidants and vitamins. They can support heart health and contribute to a balanced diet. Combined, these ingredients create a nourishing dish that supports your well-being while satisfying your taste buds. It's a great option for anyone looking to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen leeks?

Yes, frozen leeks can be used in place of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess water before cooking.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.

→ Can I make the soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The soup can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I substitute for white beans?

You can substitute white beans with chickpeas or navy beans if preferred.