Name: Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large leek; 3 cloves garlic; 1 pound broccoli (about 1 large head including the stem); 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, drained; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups vegetable broth or more to taste; 3 tablespoons flavored oil (optional); 1 teaspoon thyme; ½ teaspoon salt or more to taste; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 burrata (optional, see notes for substitutions)

If you’re craving something comforting, nourishing, and downright delicious, this Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a bowl of smooth, vibrant green goodness that comes together in just 35 minutes—perfect for busy days or cozy evenings.

A close-up view of a large white pot filled with a thick, creamy, light green mixture that has a slightly textured surface, stirred by a wooden spoon resting inside. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface with pink flowers on the left side and garlic cloves and green leafy vegetables on the right side. The light green mixture fills the pot up to about three-quarters of its height, with the spoon lifting some of the mixture showing its dense but smooth texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, I fall back on this creamy broccoli soup again and again—it’s just that good! The hearty white beans make it wonderfully creamy without any dairy (unless you want to add burrata on top), and the leeks and garlic add that subtle richness you didn’t know you were missing.

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals.
Healthy and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber thanks to white beans and broccoli.
Simple Ingredients: Made mostly from pantry staples and fresh produce.
Customizable: Add burrata or flavored oil for extra indulgence or keep it purely vegan.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When shopping for this soup, look for fresh, firm broccoli heads and a large, clean leek. Quality vegetable broth can really lift the flavor, and canned white beans make this recipe both nutritious and creamy without fuss.

Flat lay of fresh broccoli florets and chopped stems, a large leek halved lengthwise and sliced, three whole garlic cloves with smooth white skins, a few sprigs of fresh thyme, a handful of white beans scattered loosely, small white ceramic bowls containing golden olive oil and bright green flavored oil, a small white ceramic bowl of light vegetable broth, and a whole burrata cheese ball with its soft, creamy surface visible, all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Leek: I love using leek because it adds a delicate onion flavor without overpowering the soup, plus it cooks down beautifully soft.
Garlic: Just a few cloves are enough to give the soup a warm, aromatic base.
Broccoli: Use the whole head including the stems—they give extra earthiness and texture.
White Beans: These make the soup creamy and boost protein content, so it feels satisfying and wholesome.
Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing and adding richness right from the start.
Vegetable Broth: This keeps the soup light yet flavorful; you can add more liquid to adjust thickness.
Thyme: The subtle herb notes complement broccoli and beans perfectly without overshadowing them.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
Burrata (optional): If you’re feeling indulgent, it’s a creamy, luscious topping that takes the soup over the top.
Flavored Oil (optional): Chili oil or Tadka oil adds a beautiful finishing touch with a bit of heat or nuttiness.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe is how easy it is to adapt to your taste or what you have on hand. Feel free to play around with the herbs, beans, or even toppings to really make it your own cozy bowl of comfort.

White Bean Variations: I often swap the canned white beans with cannellini or butter beans depending on what’s in my pantry — they all add that lovely creamy texture and boost the protein just right.
Herb Twists: When I want a slightly different flavor profile, I like to use oregano or an Italian herb mix instead of thyme. It gives the soup a subtle Mediterranean vibe.
Dairy-Free Options: For those avoiding dairy, swapping the burrata for a drizzle of coconut cream or a dollop of non-dairy yogurt works beautifully without sacrificing creaminess.
Seasonal Boosts: During fall, I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of chili oil for warmth and depth — it's marvelous with a crusty slice of warm bread.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe

A white bowl with three main layers sits on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a thick, coarse green mixture that fills most of the bowl. On top of this is a round dollop of smooth white cream, placed slightly off-center. Surrounding the cream is a swirl of orange oil with a few small red chili slices and a bay leaf resting on the cream. On the right edge of the bowl is a knife with a white handle dipped into the green mixture. A piece of torn bread is visible in the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base with Tender Leeks and Garlic

Begin by cutting your leek in half lengthwise and rinsing each layer to remove any hidden dirt — leeks can be sneaky like that! Chop it finely, then heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped leek and let it sauté gently for about 5 minutes until it becomes shiny and tender, stirring occasionally to prevent browning. Next, add the pressed garlic cloves and cook for another minute, just enough to release those wonderful aromas without burning the garlic. This flavorful base sets the stage for the whole soup, so take your time — you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells amazing and the leek feels soft to the touch.

Step 2: Simmer the Broccoli and Beans to Tender Perfection

While the leek and garlic are doing their thing, rinse and chop your broccoli into bite-sized pieces, including the stem and leaves — they add texture and nutrients! Add the broccoli, drained white beans, 1 teaspoon thyme, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and sauté for 2 minutes, making sure to coat the veggies well with the oil and aromatics. Then, pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and bring it all to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is fork-tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. You’ll know it’s done when the broccoli softens and becomes easy to blend but still tastes fresh.

Step 3: Blend Until Silky Smooth and Adjust to Taste

Once your broccoli and beans are perfectly tender, it’s time to blend. I like using an immersion blender directly in the pot for minimal cleanup, but a standing blender works just as well. Blend until the soup is creamy and smooth — the white beans help give it that luscious texture without needing any cream. If the soup feels too thick for your liking, just add a little extra vegetable broth until you reach your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust the salt as needed — balancing seasoning makes all the difference!

Step 4: Serve with Burrata and a Drizzle of Flavored Oil

To serve, ladle the soup into bowls. If you’re using burrata, add about one third of a ball right in the center of each portion — it melts slightly into the warm soup, adding irresistible richness. Finish with a drizzle of flavored oil like chili or Tadka oil for a subtle kick and beautiful color contrast. Rounded out with crusty bread, this soup becomes a nourishing meal perfect for any day. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!

Top Tip

Getting the most out of your Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe means paying attention to a few key details that elevate the flavors and texture. These tips come from plenty of kitchen experiments and a love for smooth, comforting soups!

Leek Prep Matters: Make sure to rinse your leek thoroughly between the layers before chopping. This removes any grit and ensures a silky smooth base without any surprises.
Sautéing Gently: Cook the leek gently until it’s shiny and tender, not browned. This sweetens the flavor and creates a delicate foundation for the soup.
Blend with Care: Use an immersion blender right in the pot for ease and control. Blend just until smooth to keep that gorgeous creamy texture without overworking the soup.
Don’t Skip the Seasoning Check: Always taste before serving! Salt and pepper can change as the soup simmers and blends, so adjust at the end to suit your palate perfectly.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe

A close-up top view of a white pot filled with two main layers: at the bottom, bright green broccoli florets with some stalk pieces, and on one side, light beige large white beans. The broccoli has a rough, bumpy texture with visible small buds, and the beans are smooth and oval-shaped. There is a sprinkle of coarse white salt and black pepper over both the broccoli and beans. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface with some garlic cloves and green stalks nearby, and a bunch of small pink flowers sits to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your soup with fresh, creamy burrata for the perfect melty center, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. A drizzle of chili or flavored oil adds a pop of color and a subtle kick. For texture, sprinkle toasted seeds, crispy croutons, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten up the bowl.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty artisan bread to soak up every last drop. You could also serve it alongside a simple mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light, refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or a grilled cheese sandwich are classic and comforting choices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it well sealed to preserve freshness and flavors.

Freezing

If you want to save soup for longer, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure the soup is completely cooled before freezing to maintain its texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply skip the burrata or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or a splash of coconut cream to keep it creamy and dairy-free.

What else can I use instead of leeks?

If you don’t have leeks, shallots or onions work beautifully. They’ll still provide that lovely aromatic base for the soup.

Can I add more broth to make the soup thinner?

Yes! After blending, you can add more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Just warm the soup again if needed.

How long does it take to make this soup?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 35 minutes—10 minutes prep and 25 minutes cooking, making it great for a quick and healthy meal.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Broccoli Soup with White Beans Recipe is a wonderful way to nourish yourself with simple, wholesome ingredients. Easy to prepare and delightfully comforting, it’s perfect for any day you need a healthy pick-me-up. I hope this recipe inspires you to enjoy cozy bowls of warmth and goodness time and again!