Bacon Bones and Vegetable Soup Recipe for Cozy Meals

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with rich, smoky flavors and nourishing vegetables. Our bacon bones and vegetable soup recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a hearty, soul-satisfying meal that’s both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious.

Using bacon bones allows you to extract deep, savory flavors that elevate the broth to a whole new level, creating a base that’s full-bodied and rich without overwhelming the natural freshness of the vegetables.

This soup is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you crave a wholesome, filling dish. It’s a wonderful way to use up leftover bacon bones and seasonal vegetables, making it economical and sustainable too.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe guides you step-by-step to create a soup that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bacon bones and vegetable soup offers a unique blend of smoky, savory flavors paired with the freshness of crisp vegetables. The bacon bones infuse the broth with a depth that store-bought stocks just can’t match.

Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can customize depending on your pantry and preferences.

It’s also incredibly nutritious, combining protein from the bacon bones with fiber and vitamins from a variety of vegetables. The slow simmering process extracts maximum flavor and nutrients, making every spoonful both tasty and wholesome.

This soup is an excellent way to warm up and nourish your body, especially during colder months.

Plus, it’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and perfect for making ahead and freezing. If you enjoy hearty soups, you’ll find this recipe a satisfying and comforting meal any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs bacon bones (ask your butcher to save them or use leftover bones)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or strainer (optional, for broth clarity)
• Soup bowls for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the bacon bones: Rinse the bacon bones under cold water to remove any excess fat or residue. This will help keep your broth clear and not overly greasy.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add bacon bones to the pot: Place the bacon bones into the pot with the onions and garlic. Let them brown slightly, turning occasionally for about 5-7 minutes. This step builds flavor for the broth.
4. Add vegetables and seasonings: Stir in the chopped carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, and corn kernels. Pour in the diced tomatoes along with the water or chicken broth. Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently.
6. Simmer the soup: Cover the pot partially and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow simmering extracts flavors from the bacon bones and melds the vegetables beautifully. Stir occasionally.
7. Check seasoning and remove bacon bones: After simmering, taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Carefully remove and discard the bacon bones and bay leaves.
8. Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread or your favorite side.

Tips & Variations

“For a clearer broth, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve before adding the vegetables back in.”

If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can roughly mash some of the potatoes after cooking to thicken the broth naturally. Feel free to swap out any vegetables based on seasonality or what you have on hand—zucchini, kale, or peas make great additions.

For an extra smoky depth, add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika. If you want a spicy twist, a pinch of red chili flakes can liven up the flavor.

Leftover cooked bacon can also be crumbled on top for garnish, adding texture and extra bacon goodness.

This soup also freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and reheat gently on the stove or microwave for an easy meal on busy days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This bacon bones and vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up the flavorful broth. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or a light slaw.

Consider serving it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream for an indulgent touch. For those looking to keep it lighter, fresh herbs like parsley or chives add brightness and freshness to each bowl.

It also makes a fantastic first course for a casual dinner party or a comforting lunch on a chilly day. For more hearty and wholesome soup ideas, check out our Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings.

Conclusion

Making a delicious and hearty bacon bones and vegetable soup is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. The rich, smoky broth combined with fresh, wholesome vegetables creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is a wonderful way to use up bacon bones and seasonal produce, transforming simple ingredients into a nourishing, flavorful dish.

Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is versatile and satisfying. It warms you from the inside out and fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that’s sure to please.

Don’t forget to explore more comforting and easy recipes like our Best Vegetarian Slow Cooker Recipes NZ For Easy Meals and Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love for more inspiration.

Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every spoonful of this delightful soup!

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