If you are craving a cozy, comforting bowl of goodness that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Rosemary Roasted Garlic White Bean Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. The creamy texture of tender white beans combined with the deep, mellow sweetness of roasted garlic and the fragrant herbal notes of fresh rosemary make for a soup that’s simple but profoundly satisfying. Finished with a touch of parmesan and a bright splash of lemon, it’s a soul-warming Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s deliciously wholesome and perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime you want to indulge in a little homemade magic.

Rosemary Roasted Garlic White Bean Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for crafting the rich depth of flavor and luxurious texture in this soup. Each element plays its part, from the roasted garlic’s sweet warmth to the beans’ creamy body and the fresh burst of rosemary that breaths Mediterranean charm into every spoonful.

3 heads garlic, top 1/8 inch (3 mm) removed: This garlic will roast down to a silky, mellow flavor that’s the heart of the soup’s richness.
1 tablespoon (15 ml) oil (for roasting garlic): Helps caramelize the garlic, giving it that golden softness.
1 tablespoon (15 ml) oil (for sautéing): For tenderizing the onions and garlic beautifully.
1 onion, diced: Adds a sweet and savory base that deepens the soup’s flavor.
3 cloves garlic, chopped: Adds fresh garlic punch just before simmering.
4 cups (950 ml) chicken or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid foundation of the soup.
3 cans (each 410 g) white beans, rinsed and drained: Provides creamy body, fiber, and protein.
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried): Gives a fragrant piney aroma that lifts the whole dish.
1/4 cup (25 g) parmigiano reggiano, grated (optional): Adds a salty, nutty finish that enhances the creaminess.
1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice: Brightens and balances the rich flavors perfectly.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to round out the soup.

How to Make Rosemary Roasted Garlic White Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 180°C. Drizzle the oil over the exposed garlic heads and wrap them tightly in aluminium foil. Roast until the cloves are soft, golden brown, and caramelized, anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. This slow roasting transforms the garlic into a luscious, mellow sweetness that forms the soul of the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Fresh Garlic

In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm the oil. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes tender and translucent. Then toss in the chopped fresh garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, releasing its bright and sharp aroma which balances the roasted garlic’s softness.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup Base

Pour in the broth, and add the rinsed white beans and chopped rosemary. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to mingle and the rosemary to infuse a subtle woodsy note.

Step 4: Add the Roasted Garlic and Blend

Carefully squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins directly into the soup pot. Then, with an immersion or countertop blender, purée the soup until it reaches a velvety smooth consistency. This step is what makes the soup beautifully creamy without any cream added, relying only on the beans and garlic.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan, Lemon, and Seasoning

Stir in the grated parmigiano reggiano if you’re using it, then add the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Season generously with salt and pepper to your taste, and serve the soup hot, ready to delight your senses with each spoonful.

How to Serve Rosemary Roasted Garlic White Bean Soup Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl, sprinkle freshly chopped rosemary leaves or a few shavings of parmigiano reggiano on top. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a lovely layer of richness or subtle heat. A few crusty croutons or fresh herbs also make great textural contrasts against the silken soup.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or a light Mediterranean salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a simple grilled cheese sandwich for pure comfort and satisfaction.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in rustic bowls for a homey vibe, or use clear glass cups for an elegant appetizer presentation. Garnish with rosemary sprigs or a small dollop of crème fraîche for a touch of sophistication. You can also drizzle a little balsamic reduction over the top for a beautiful tangy contrast that surprises and delights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a little after sitting, making your next bowl just as wonderful.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully if you want to make it a meal prep star. Store in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. Avoid overheating to preserve the delicate flavors and creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative. The soup remains deliciously creamy and flavorful without any animal products.

What type of white beans work best?

Cannellini beans are ideal for this recipe due to their creamy texture and mild flavor, but great northern beans can be used as well if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can. Just remember to soak and cook them ahead of time until tender, as this recipe assumes canned beans for convenience. Using dried beans gives slightly different texture but makes the soup even more homemade.

Is rosemary necessary?

Rosemary is key to this soup’s distinctive aromatic profile, but if you don’t have any, substitute with thyme or sage for a slightly different but still lovely flavor.

How spicy can I make this soup?

If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the fresh garlic or sprinkle some on top when serving. The roasted garlic’s sweetness balances spice beautifully without overpowering.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Rosemary Roasted Garlic White Bean Soup Recipe enough. It’s the kind of recipe that feels thoughtfully simple but delivers layers of flavor and comfort with every spoonful. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or for guests, it’s bound to be a favorite that you’ll come back to again and again. So go ahead, roast that garlic, stir those beans, and treat yourself to a hug in a bowl!

Rosemary Roasted Garlic White Bean Soup Recipe