Hearty 3 Bean Soup Recipe for a Cozy Meal

If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with flavor, this Hearty 3 Bean Soup is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of soup that wraps you up like a cozy blanket—rich, filling, and satisfying without being heavy.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just want a healthy, wholesome dinner, this soup checks all the boxes.

What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to throw together. It’s made with simple pantry staples, and you can customize it however you like. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan.

Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and bold spices, this soup is both good for your taste buds and your body.

Why You’ll Love This 3 Bean Soup

✔ Easy to make – One pot, minimal prep.
✔ Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
✔ Healthy & nourishing – Packed with protein and fiber.
✔ Perfect for meal prep – Makes a big batch and tastes even better the next day.
✔ Totally customizable – Spice it up or keep it mild—your choice!

Ingredients for 3 Bean Soup

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp oregano
½ tsp thyme
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (for brightness)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Hearty 3 Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5–7 minutes, until they begin to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add the Beans and Spices
Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Simmer
Add the vegetable broth, bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.

Step 4: Add Final Touches
Stir in the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread, rice, or a simple salad on the side.

Fun Variations to Try

1. Spicy 3 Bean Soup
🌶 Add chili flakes or a diced jalapeño to bring the heat.

2. 3 Bean and Lentil Soup
🥣 Stir in ½ cup of dry lentils for extra heartiness (add an extra cup of broth).

3. Creamy 3 Bean Soup
🥛 Blend half the soup for a creamier texture without losing the chunky goodness.

4. 3 Bean and Pasta Soup
🍝 Toss in ½ cup of small pasta like ditalini or elbow noodles for a minestrone-style twist.

5. 3 Bean Soup with Greens
🥬 Add a few handfuls of baby spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.

Tips for the Best Bean Soup

✔ Use low-sodium beans and broth – So you can control the salt.
✔ Add acid at the end – Lemon juice or vinegar brightens the whole dish.
✔ Let it sit – Like many soups, it tastes even better the next day.
✔ Double the batch – It freezes beautifully for future meals.

What to Serve with 3 Bean Soup

🥖 Crusty bread or garlic toast
🥗 Simple green salad with vinaigrette
🧀 Grated Parmesan or vegan cheese on top
🍚 Steamed rice or quinoa for a more filling bowl

How to Store and Reheat

Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty 3 Bean Soup is the kind of recipe that’s easy, comforting, and nourishing—a true go-to meal for any time of year. It’s perfect for meatless Mondays, budget-friendly dinners, or just warming up on a chilly evening. With a bowl of this in front of you, comfort is just a spoonful away.

Thinking of making this soup? Let me know how it turns out! 🍲💛