13 bean soup is the kind of meal that doesn’t just fill your stomach—it nourishes you on a deeper level. With its hearty texture, earthy flavor, and satisfying richness, it’s a go-to for anyone looking to eat well and feel even better. Whether it’s the centerpiece of a weeknight dinner or a comforting batch you freeze for later, this soup brings warmth and nutrition to your table.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
At its core, this soup is a celebration of legumes. The mix of beans, lentils, and peas brings a beautiful range of textures and colors to your bowl while offering loads of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The best part? It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and budget-friendly.
Why You’ll Love This 13 Bean Soup Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to keep this soup in your regular rotation:
- Naturally high in protein and fiber
- Filling, comforting, and full of flavor
- Adaptable with meat, veggies, or spices
- Freezes beautifully and reheats easily
- Great for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike
You can enjoy it as a light lunch or pair it with bread for a hearty dinner—it suits just about any need.
Ingredients Table: What’s in 13 Bean Soup
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 13-bean dry mix | A diverse blend of legumes that offers texture and depth |
| Onion, garlic, and celery | A fragrant base that creates savory undertones |
| Carrots and tomatoes | Add subtle sweetness and acidity |
| Vegetable or chicken broth | The flavorful liquid base of the soup |
| Spices (thyme, bay leaf, paprika) | Add complexity and aromatic warmth |
| Olive oil | Used for sautéing and adds richness |
| Optional: ham, sausage, or smoked paprika | Provide a smoky, meaty boost |
How to Make the Best 13 Bean Soup
1. Soak the Beans
Start by rinsing your beans thoroughly. Soaking them overnight or doing a quick soak by boiling them briefly and letting them sit for an hour reduces cooking time and helps with digestion.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onions, garlic, celery, and carrots until softened. This step builds your flavor foundation, so take your time here.
3. Combine and Simmer
Add the soaked beans, broth, tomatoes, and spices. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are soft and tender.
4. Final Touch and Rest
Once the soup is cooked through, adjust salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf. Chill for 10 minutes to set—this resting period lets the soup thicken and the flavors come together more cohesively.
Tips for the Perfect 13 Bean Soup Every Time
- Rinse the beans thoroughly to remove excess starch and dust
- Don’t skip the aromatics—they form the soul of the soup
- Use low-sodium broth if adding ham or sausage to prevent salt overload
- Blend a cup of soup for a creamy texture without any dairy
- Taste and adjust your spices in the final 15 minutes of cooking
Variations on 13 Bean Soup
You can make this soup your own in countless ways:
- Southwest Style: Add black beans, cumin, corn, and jalapeños
- Italian Flair: Toss in basil, oregano, and a Parmesan rind while simmering
- Smoky Meaty: Add browned sausage or diced ham for richness
- Vegan Powerhouse: Add quinoa or barley for an extra nutrient boost
- Creamy Vegan: Stir in coconut milk or cashew cream for a smooth finish
What to Serve With 13 Bean Soup
This soup is a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a few sides:
- Crusty sourdough or multigrain bread
- Classic cornbread with honey butter
- Side salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted greens or garlic green beans
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Refrigerate: Keeps well for 4–5 days in an airtight container
- Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months
- Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency
FAQs About 13 Bean Soup
What is in the 13 bean soup mix?
Typical mixes include a blend of beans like pinto, black, red kidney, navy, lentils, split peas, black-eyed peas, lima beans, and more. Each brings its own flavor and texture.
Is 13 bean soup healthy?
Yes, it’s packed with fiber, protein, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. It supports digestion, heart health, and keeps you full for hours.
What ingredients go in bean soup?
Alongside beans, you’ll usually find broth, onions, garlic, tomatoes, carrots, and seasonings. Meats or extra veggies are optional.
What are the 15 beans in 15 bean soup?
While it varies by brand, 15 bean mixes add even more variety—like yellow split peas, garbanzo beans, or cranberry beans—building even more flavor and texture diversity.
If you’re looking for a dish that satisfies on every level, 13 bean soup is it. Loaded with flavor, nutrients, and comfort, it’s one of those recipes you’ll make again and again. Whether you’re eating more plant-based, looking for something hearty and healthy, or just craving a bowl of warmth, this soup checks every box.
Make a big batch, freeze a few portions, and enjoy it all season long. One pot. Endless comfort.
PrintWholesome & Hearty 13 Bean Soup You’ll Make on Repeat
13 bean soup is a wholesome, hearty meal made from a variety of legumes and vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s nutritious, filling, and perfect for cozy nights.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 13-bean dry mix – provides a blend of textures and plant-based protein
- Onion, garlic, and celery – form the aromatic base of the soup
- Carrots and tomatoes – add sweetness and acidity
- Vegetable or chicken broth – serves as the flavorful liquid foundation
- Spices (thyme, bay leaf, paprika) – build warmth and complexity
- Olive oil – used to sauté the aromatics
- Optional: ham, sausage, or smoked paprika – add smoky, savory depth
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the 13-bean mix overnight or use a quick soak method.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrots until soft.
- Add soaked beans, broth, tomatoes, and spices. Stir and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until beans are tender.
- Adjust seasoning, remove bay leaf, and chill for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth if adding salty meats like ham or sausage.
- Soaking beans helps reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- Blend part of the soup for a creamy texture without adding dairy.
- Customize with herbs, spices, or vegetables based on preference.
- Great for meal prepping—store in fridge or freezer in batches.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
