If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that hits all the right notes of flavor and heartiness, this Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender white beans simmered with savory Italian sausage, fragrant herbs, and fresh greens all coming together in a rich, cozy broth that feels like a big, delicious hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want a simple yet satisfying dish, this soup brings together wholesome ingredients in a way that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients ready for this Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe is straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in creating a symphony of flavors and textures. From the savory sausage that adds a meaty depth to the fresh greens that brighten the soup, every component is carefully chosen to make your soup hearty and vibrant.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is your flavor foundation for sautéing and bringing the soup ingredients together smoothly.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed: Adds rich, savory, spiced flavor that’s the star protein of the soup.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Brings subtle sweetness and an aromatic base to build your soup’s depth.
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and a pop of color that brightens the bowl.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Brings a fresh, crisp note to balance the savory sausage and beans.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and a little punch that wakes up the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the broth with earthy herbal notes that beautifully complement the sausage.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a hint of Mediterranean warmth to the soup.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a subtle kick of heat in their soup.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties all ingredients together in a comforting broth.
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds juicy acidity and richness that enhances the overall balance.
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed: The star legumes that provide creaminess, fiber, and protein.
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale: Brings vibrant color, nutrition, and a fresh, leafy element to the soup.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out and fine-tune all the dish’s flavors.
- Grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Add a finishing touch of savory richness and a pop of freshness when serving.
How to Make Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat—this will be your flavor base. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks until beautifully browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. Once browned, scoop the sausage out and set it aside, reserving all those tasty drippings in the pot. This step is key because the fond left behind adds incredible depth to the soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook them gently for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and fragrant. These veggies form the heart of your soup by providing sweetness, texture, and plenty of aroma. Next, stir in the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the red pepper flakes. Let everything cook together for just a minute, allowing those herbs and spices to bloom.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and add the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices right into the pot. This combination creates a rich, savory base layered with a bit of tomato brightness. Then, stir in the rinsed white beans, which will thicken and add creaminess to your soup. Return the browned sausage to the pot, mixing everything together as you bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let everything simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes—this slow cooking melds the flavors perfectly and softens the veggies to a tender bite.
Step 4: Add Greens and Finish
Finally, stir in your chopped fresh spinach or kale. It only needs a couple of minutes to wilt down and infuse the soup with vibrant color and a boost of nutrition. Taste your soup and season with salt and black pepper as you like. Serve the soup piping hot, and if you want to elevate the flavor even more, sprinkle grated Parmesan and fresh parsley over the top. This finishing touch offers a lovely contrast and an inviting aroma that makes the soup feel extra special.
How to Serve Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, creamy finish that melts into the hot soup beautifully. Fresh parsley brings a lively pop of color and a subtle herbal brightness that freshens every spoonful. Both garnishes feel like a little celebration on top of each bowl and make the dish look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Serve this soup with warm crusty bread or garlic-infused focaccia to soak up every last bit of the savory broth. A side salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish well too, cutting through the richness of the sausage and beans with crisp, tangy freshness. These pairings let you build a full meal that’s both satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, you can serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, making the presentation rustic and cozy. Another idea is to garnish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added heat and flair. If you want to impress guests, serve it with a side of Parmesan crisps or a small bowl of chili-infused olive oil to dip your bread in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
Freezing
This soup also freezes beautifully, making it perfect for batch cooking. Let the soup cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you want a quick meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up for a comforting dinner any day of the week.
Reheating
To reheat, place your container in a saucepan over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water can loosen the soup if it has thickened in the fridge or freezer. Avoid overheating; gentle warming preserves the texture of the beans and the vibrancy of the greens.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative that still provides great flavor, keeping the soup lighter without sacrificing the savory taste.
What kind of white beans work best for this recipe?
Cannellini or great northern beans are ideal because they hold their shape well and offer a creamy texture that blends wonderfully in this soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can skip the sausage and use vegetable broth, then add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or smoked paprika for a depth of flavor. Though it won’t have the same richness, it’s still delicious and comforting.
Is it okay to use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh herbs like thyme and oregano can be used. Generally, use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried to maintain balance in flavor.
How spicy is this soup with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a mild kick—enough to give the soup a bit of warmth without overpowering the other flavors. You can easily omit or adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a big pot of homemade soup, and this Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe delivers that comfort with every spoonful. It’s filling but fresh, rustic but refined, and best of all, wonderfully easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup is sure to become a beloved go-to in your recipe collection. So grab your pot and get ready to warm your kitchen and your heart with this incredible dish!
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Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sausage White Bean Soup is a hearty and comforting Italian-American dish featuring savory Italian sausage, tender white beans, and fresh greens simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, this one-pot soup combines protein-rich ingredients with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it a satisfying and nutritious option for any season.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Grated Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add broth and tomatoes: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add beans and sausage: Stir in the drained and rinsed white beans, then return the cooked sausage to the pot.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes to develop deep flavors and allow the vegetables to tenderize.
- Incorporate greens and season: Stir in the chopped fresh spinach or kale and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the greens are wilted. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preference.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans before adding them to the soup.
- Use turkey sausage as a leaner alternative to Italian sausage.
- This soup freezes well for up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead meal.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the sausage used does not contain gluten.
