Name: Homemade German Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 1 cup green beans, trimmed 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or butter beans), drained 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped 6 slices bacon, chopped 1 medium onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 carrots, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth 1 bay leaf 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of hearty Homemade German Bean Soup. This rustic, flavorful dish is a beloved staple in many German kitchens, especially during colder months. Packed with vibrant vegetables, tender potatoes, savory bacon, and creamy beans, it strikes the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.

What makes this soup special is its simplicity paired with robust flavors. The creamy base, infused with herbs and smoky bacon, complements the earthy notes of green beans and white beans. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a cozy hug from grandma’s kitchen—rich in tradition, easy to make, and endlessly satisfying.

What Kind of Beans Should I Use?

German Bean Soup typically uses a mix of creamy white beans (like cannellini or butter beans) and pinto or kidney beans for a more complex texture. You can use canned beans for convenience, but if you have time, soaking and cooking dried beans brings a depth of flavor that’s truly worth the effort.

Ingredients for the Homemade German Bean Soup

Green Beans – Add a bright, slightly crunchy contrast to the creamy base.

White Beans (Cannellini or Butter Beans) – Creamy and mild, they soak up the soup’s rich flavors.

Pinto Beans – Add heartiness and a slightly nutty flavor.

Yukon Gold Potatoes – Their buttery texture helps thicken the soup naturally.

Bacon – Smoky and savory, bacon adds depth and that unmistakable comfort-food flavor.

Onion & Garlic – The aromatic base that brings the soup to life.

Carrots & Celery – Classic soup veggies that round out the flavor and add texture.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Forms the flavorful base of the soup.

Parsley – Fresh and peppery, it’s the finishing touch that brightens the bowl.

Salt, Pepper, Bay Leaf – For seasoning and added depth.

How To Make the Homemade German Bean Soup

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot for extra flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth

Stir in chopped Yukon gold potatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the potatoes are just tender.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Green Beans

Add drained white beans and pinto beans to the pot. Toss in trimmed green beans and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, until all vegetables are tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer gently to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Stir in chopped parsley and return the crispy bacon to the pot, reserving a bit for garnish. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra bacon on top for added crunch.

How to Serve and Store This Soup

Homemade German Bean Soup is best served piping hot, straight from the pot with a slice of crusty rye bread or a warm pretzel on the side. It’s a meal in itself, but you can pair it with a light salad if you want something fresh on the side.

To store, let the soup cool completely and transfer it into airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes beautifully—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can also add a splash of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor bacon provides.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans work well if fresh aren’t available. Add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Sauté the bacon and aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours.

What other herbs work well in this soup?

Besides parsley, thyme and marjoram add a wonderful earthy depth that complements the beans.

Can I add sausage to this soup?

Definitely! Sliced smoked sausage is a classic variation and makes the soup even heartier.

What if my soup is too thick?

Add a bit more broth or water and stir gently until you reach your desired consistency.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love the heartiness of this Homemade German Bean Soup, check out these other cozy, flavor-packed recipes:

Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup for a spicy and savory twist.
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup if you’re craving creamy, cheesy comfort.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup that turns your favorite pie into a spoonable bowl.
Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup when you need a one-pot, stick-to-your-ribs dinner.
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo for a spicy, creamy weeknight hit.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time: Life with Jam Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for extra bacon? Swap in another type of bean? I love seeing your versions and hearing your tips!