Cozy nights are made for warm, comforting bowls of soup. And when it comes to hearty, satisfying options, 15 bean soups are a clear winner. With their rich flavors and filling textures, these soups are perfect for snuggling up by the fire or sharing with friends and family. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of 15 bean soups and explore 20 delicious recipes to spice up your mealtime routine.
From classic combinations with ham and beef to vegetarian and vegan options, there’s something for everyone in our roundup. And the best part? These soups are incredibly easy to make, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen.
Classic 15 Bean Soup with Ham
This classic bean soup recipe is a staple of American comfort food, packed with tender ham, flavorful beans, and a rich broth. Perfect for a chilly day or a cozy gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried 15-bean mix
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound diced ham (such as prosciutto or smoked ham)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced ham, chicken broth, canned tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of fiber-rich beans, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option for vegetarians. With minimal prep time and a short cooking period, this recipe is ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried 15-bean mix
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and combine the beans with chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper in a large pot.
3. Add vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Spicy 15 Bean Soup with Chorizo
Elevate your bean soup game with the bold flavors of chorizo and a medley of 15 beans! This hearty, slow-cooked soup is perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried 15-bean mix
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 pounds chorizo sausage, sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. Rinse beans, pick out any debris, and soak in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. Cook chorizo sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Drain soaked beans and add them to the pot along with vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and cooked chorizo.
6. Cover and transfer the pot to the preheated oven. Simmer for 8 hours or slow cooker on low for 10-12 hours.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (ovens) or 10-12 hours (slow cooker)
Slow Cooker 15 Bean Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this slow-cooked bean soup, perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the rich flavors of onions, garlic, and spices with the convenience of canned beans and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried 15-bean mix
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried beans and add them to a slow cooker.
2. In a separate pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the cooked onion mixture, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
4. Stir well, then cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Instant Pot 15 Bean Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this easy-to-make 15 bean soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried 15-bean mix
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add dried beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and set cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open lid and check that beans are tender. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Smoky 15 Bean Soup with Bacon
Savor the rich flavors of this hearty soup, featuring tender beans, smoky bacon, and a depth of smokiness from chipotle peppers. This comforting recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried 15-bean mix
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chipotle peppers, beans, broth, tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Stir in cooked bacon and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cajun-Style 15 Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Cajun cuisine, made with a blend of 15 beans and savory spices. Perfect for a comforting meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried 15-bean mix
– 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse beans and pick out any debris or stones.
2. In a large pot, combine sausage, onion, celery, garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, and bay leaf.
3. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until sausage is browned (5-7 minutes).
4. Add beans, chicken broth, and water to the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
15 Bean Soup with Kale and Sausage
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of sausage, kale, and 15 different types of beans for a nutritious and filling meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chopped fresh kale
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add beans, kale, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional kale if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hearty 15 Bean Soup with Beef
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and creamy beans, sure to warm hearts and fill bellies on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, then set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the browned beef, beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the soup is thickened and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Creamy 15 Bean Soup with Coconut Milk
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of coconut milk, beans, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mixed beans (such as kidney, black, pinto, and navy)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
3. Add the vegetable broth, soaked beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
15 Bean Soup with Italian Herbs
Warm up with this comforting, flavorful soup that combines the richness of beans with the brightness of Italian herbs. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for your favorite pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried 15 bean mix
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the beans and pick out any debris or stones.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the beans and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
15 Bean Soup with Cornbread Croutons
This classic American soup is a staple of comfort food, packed with 15 different types of beans and a hint of smokiness from the bacon. The addition of crunchy cornbread croutons adds a delightful textural element to this satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried mixed beans (such as kidney, black, navy, etc.)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cornbread croutons (see below for recipe)
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the beans and soak overnight. Drain and add to a large pot with vegetable broth, oil, bacon, onion, garlic, and cumin.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut cornbread into small cubes and toast until crispy.
4. Serve soup hot with cornbread croutons on top. Garnish with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cornbread Croutons Recipe:
– 1 cup cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss crumbled cornbread with oil and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and toast until crispy.
15 Bean Soup with Sweet Potatoes
This comforting soup combines the goodness of sweet potatoes with the wholesome flavors of a classic bean soup, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The slow-cooked mixture of beans and sweet potatoes creates a velvety texture that’s both filling and nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried 15-bean mix
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added spice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried beans and soak them in water overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
3. Add the soaked beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Add the diced sweet potatoes and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes or until they’re tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
15 Bean Soup with Spinach and Feta
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of spinach, feta cheese, and a medley of beans for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the beans, broth, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Stir in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
15 Bean Soup with Roasted Garlic
This hearty and flavorful soup is a perfect blend of comforting beans and sweet roasted garlic. It’s an excellent way to warm up on a chilly day, and its robust taste will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried 15 bean mix
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3-4 cloves garlic
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil over medium heat until vegetables are tender.
3. Add roasted garlic, beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
15 Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe showcases the rich flavors of mixed beans, combined with aromatic herbs from your garden.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mixed beans (such as kidney, pinto, black, navy, and garbanzo)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh parsley
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mixed beans and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
3. Add the vegetable broth, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the soup for an additional 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
15 Bean Soup with Jalapeños and Lime
This vibrant soup combines the comforting warmth of beans with the bold flavors of jalapeños and a squeeze of lime, making it a perfect blend of spicy and refreshing. Perfect for a chilly day or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried 15-bean mix
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried beans and soak them in water overnight. Drain and add to a large pot.
2. In a skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and jalapeños until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot with the beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
15 Bean Soup with Turmeric and Ginger
This hearty bean soup is a perfect remedy for a chilly day. The combination of turmeric and ginger adds a unique depth of flavor and aroma, making it a comforting and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup dried beans (15-bean mix)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the carrots and cook for 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Add the dried beans, vegetable broth, turmeric, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
15 Bean Soup with Quinoa
A comforting and nutritious soup that combines the goodness of quinoa, beans, and vegetables for a meal that’s perfect for any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) lima beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa and cook according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
3. Add vegetable broth, kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, lima beans, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until beans are tender.
4. Stir in cooked quinoa and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
15 Bean Soup with Smoked Paprika
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of 15 beans with the smokiness of paprika, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its deep flavor profile and tender texture, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried 15-bean mix
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
2. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, and beans; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get cozy on cold nights with these 20 hearty 15 bean soup recipes! From classic combinations to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Try the Classic 15 Bean Soup with Ham or go vegetarian with the Vegetarian 15 Bean Soup. Spice things up with the Spicy 15 Bean Soup with Chorizo or add some smokiness with the Smoky 15 Bean Soup with Bacon. With options like slow cooker and Instant Pot recipes, you can enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of goodness whenever you want.
