When canned bean soup is dinner, I want an easy extra that makes the bowl feel less routine. These five Five Below picks help round it out, and each costs $4 or less.
1. Cheez-It® Original Crackers 7oz – $3.50
Cheesy crackers are my dependable side when a simple bean soup needs crunch and a little more savory depth. The 7oz recloseable bag is handy for quick lunches because I can use a few without finishing the lot.
Taste: The real-cheese flavor is bold and distinctly savory. Each square stays crisp when served alongside soup, while crushed pieces soften slightly on top without immediately losing all their crunch.
Make It Better: Crush a small handful over the bowl like croutons, then keep a few whole for dipping.
Parting Thoughts: For classic soup-and-cracker comfort, this is the most versatile pick here.
2. Dot’s® Homestyle Pretzels 5oz – Original Seasoned – $4.00
On nights when bean soup tastes a little flat, these original seasoned pretzel twists bring an easy savory boost. I like them with a hearty bowl because they work equally well as a side or a broken-up garnish.
Taste: The seasoning is pronounced and savory rather than plain or neutral. Their sturdy, crunchy texture gives softer beans and broth a welcome contrast.
Make It Better: Break the twists into coarse pieces and scatter them over the soup immediately before eating so they retain their crunch.
Parting Thoughts: Seasoning lovers will appreciate these, though plain-pretzel loyalists may find them busier than necessary.
3. Takis® Fuego™ Hot Chili Pepper & Lime Rolled Tortilla Chips 3.25oz – $2.75
A bland black-bean or pinto-bean bowl wakes up quickly under a crumble of these chili-pepper-and-lime rolled tortilla chips. They are best reserved for lunches or dinners where serious heat is welcome.
Taste: Fiery chili leads, followed by a sharp, tangy lime note. The tightly rolled corn chips deliver a firm, concentrated crunch that holds up well as a finishing topping.
Make It Better: Crush just one or two over the bowl first, taste, and add more gradually; the heat can take over a mild soup.
Parting Thoughts: Heat seekers get plenty of impact for $2.75, but spice-sensitive eaters should choose another topper.
4. Slim Jim® Original Smoked Snack Stick 0.28oz – $0.50
When there is no fresh meat around, this shelf-stable smoked snack stick can add a small, savory accent to a bean soup. At 0.28oz, it makes more sense as a flavor booster than as the main protein.
Taste: The flavor is intense, smoky, and deeply savory. Its firm texture provides a meatier bite among tender canned beans.
Make It Better: Slice it thinly and distribute the pieces throughout the bowl rather than leaving them in large chunks.
Parting Thoughts: At $0.50, it is a practical little add-in for anyone who wants smoke and substance without opening a larger package.
5. Angie’s Boom Chicka Pop® White Cheddar Popcorn 4.5oz Bag – $4.00
For creamy or vegetable-bean soups, white cheddar popcorn offers a lighter finishing touch than dense crackers or chips. I add it at the table so the topping stays airy instead of disappearing into the hot bowl.
Taste: The white cheddar flavor is mild and cheesy, so it complements rather than overwhelms the soup. The popcorn begins light and crisp, then gradually softens where it touches the broth.
Make It Better: Add a few pieces at a time and replenish them as you eat; that keeps every spoonful from turning soggy.
Parting Thoughts: Choose this when you want gentle cheese flavor and lots of airy crunch, not a heavy or intensely seasoned garnish.
