There’s something so special about a big pot of soup bubbling away on the stove,it fills the kitchen with warmth, comfort, and the kind of aroma that makes you feel instantly at home.
For me, 15 bean soup is one of those recipes that takes me straight back to cozy evenings when all I wanted was a hearty, nourishing meal after a long day. I remember the first time I made it on a cold winter night—the beans had softened into perfection, the broth was rich and smoky, and I couldn’t resist ladling out seconds (and maybe even thirds!).
It’s the kind of soup that hugs you from the inside, the kind you look forward to reheating the next day because it somehow tastes even better.
What is 15 Bean Soup?
15 bean soup is a mix of dried beans that usually comes pre-packaged (you can find it in most grocery stores). The mix often includes a colorful variety—like red beans, black beans, pinto, chickpeas, navy beans, lentils, and more. Each bean adds its own unique taste and texture, creating a deeply flavorful soup when slow-cooked together. Traditionally, it’s simmered with ham or sausage, but it’s just as delicious when made vegetarian.
Why I Love This Soup
What I truly love about 15 bean soup is how humble yet satisfying it is. It doesn’t need expensive ingredients or complicated steps just a simple bag of beans, some vegetables, and a pot of broth. And yet, when it’s done, it feels like you’ve created something extraordinary. I love the variety in every bite and it’s nourishing, filling, and endlessly versatile. To me, this soup represents comfort, frugality, and creativity all in one bowl—it’s proof that the simplest ingredients can create the most memorable meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 package (about 20 oz) 15 bean soup mix (rinsed and soaked overnight)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced ham, sausage, or smoked turkey (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, brightens flavors)
How to Make It
#STEP 1 Start by soaking the beans overnight—this step helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time. The next day, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. Stir in the soaked beans, diced tomatoes, broth, smoked paprika, cumin, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. If you’re adding ham or sausage, toss it in now for that smoky, savory depth.
#STEP 2 Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer gently for about 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender. If the soup gets too thick, just add more broth or water. Once the beans are soft and the flavors have blended beautifully, remove the bay leaf, stir in fresh parsley, and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Tips for the Best 15 Bean Soup
- If you forgot to soak the beans overnight, you can do a quick soak: cover beans with water, bring to a boil for 2 minutes, then let them sit for 1 hour before draining.
- Adding a smoky meat like ham hock or smoked turkey elevates the flavor, but the soup is still amazing as a vegetarian dish.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice at the end—it adds a fresh pop that balances the earthy beans.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, as the beans soak up even more flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve 15 bean soup with a slice of warm cornbread, crusty bread, or over rice for a heartier meal. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp green salad. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can also take it to another level.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth and skip the meat, adding extra spices like chili powder or smoked paprika for depth.
- Spicy Kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes to bring some heat.
- Tomato-Free: Leave out the diced tomatoes and use extra broth for a milder flavor.
- Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients (except lemon and parsley) in a slow cooker, set on low for 7–8 hours, or high for 4–5 hours.
A Bowl Full of Comfort
15 bean soup is more than just a meal—it’s cozy, hearty, and nourishing, perfect for feeding the whole family or meal prepping for the week. Every bowl is slightly different thanks to the mix of beans, and that’s part of the charm. Once you try this recipe, I guarantee it’ll earn a spot in your regular rotation.