Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon and White Bean Soup is one of those hearty, comforting dishes that brings everyone around the kitchen table on a chilly day. This recipe hails from the heart of rustic Midwestern cuisine, where simple, wholesome ingredients create something wonderful and nourishing. The combination of smoky bacon, tender white beans, and creamy broth creates a soup that's both warming and indulgent. It's perfect for busy parents who want to prepare a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

This creamy bacon and white bean soup pairs beautifully with a side of warm, crusty bread. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing balance to the meal. For a dessert, you might enjoy serving apple crisp or a classic Midwestern pie, like pecan or cherry, to round out your comforting and homely dinner.

Servings: 6

6 slices of bacon, diced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

1. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.

2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet with the bacon fat. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Transfer the cooked vegetables and bacon to your slow cooker.

4. Add the chicken broth, white beans, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.

5. Stir everything together, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.

6. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through.

7. Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.

8. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. If your kids are picky about vegetables, feel free to puree some of the soup to make it smoother and hide the vegetables. For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add a handful of spinach or kale just before serving for an extra boost of nutrients.

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