Creamy Rosemary & Roasted Garlic White Bean Soup—packed with caramelized leeks, fresh herbs, and cozy flavors—is a 45-minute miracle. Just 8 ingredients, one pot, and zero fancy skills required.
2large leeksdark green parts removed, halved lengthwise
6–8 celery stalksthinly sliced (about 2 cups)
1cupgrated carrots
1medium yellow onionfinely diced
2dried bay leaves
315-oz cans cannellini beans, drained
5cupslow-sodium chicken or vegetable brothdivided
⅛cupheavy cream
2tablespoonsolive oildivided
½lemonfor serving
Grated Parmesan or fontina cheesefor garnish
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Roast Garlic and Leeks: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place trimmed garlic heads and halved leeks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season lightly with salt and pepper, and arrange rosemary sprigs over the garlic. Roast for 40 minutes, or until garlic is golden and leeks are tender.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat ½ tablespoon olive oil over medium-low heat. Add diced onion, celery, carrots, and bay leaves. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 12–15 minutes until softened. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
Simmer Soup Base: Stir in drained beans and 4 cups of broth. Increase heat to medium and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes while the garlic finishes roasting.
Prepare Roasted Garlic Paste: Once cooled slightly, squeeze roasted garlic cloves into a small bowl, discarding skins. Remove crispy rosemary leaves from stems and finely chop. Mash garlic and rosemary into a coarse paste.
Blend Soup: Transfer half of the soup mixture, roasted leeks, and garlic-rosemary paste to a blender. Purée until smooth, then return to the pot. For a chunkier texture, blend only one-third of the soup.
Finish and Serve: Stir in remaining 1 cup broth and heavy cream. Warm over low heat for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve topped with grated cheese, a sprinkle of fresh rosemary, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
For a smoother consistency, add broth as needed. Omit cream for a lighter version.