To make your White Bean Soup with Bacon, follow these simple steps:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels. Leave the bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent, and then add the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Beans: Stir in the drained white beans, making sure they are well coated in the bacon fat.
4. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Season the Soup: Add the dried thyme and smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes. The beans should soften and infuse the broth with flavor.
7. Add Greens: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
8. Crisp the Bacon: While the soup is simmering, chop the reserved bacon into small pieces and crisp it up in a skillet over medium heat.
9. Finish the Soup: Remove the soup from heat, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and top each serving with the crispy bacon pieces. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

These steps will guide you in creating an amazing bowl of White Bean Soup with Bacon without a hitch.