If you’re craving a soul-warming, hearty meal that feels like a big cozy hug in a bowl, look no further than this classic Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe. Combining savory Italian sausage with creamy white beans and vibrant greens, this soup is a wonderful blend of bold flavors and comforting textures. It’s exactly the kind of dish that brightens chilly evenings and satisfies with every spoonful, making it a personal favorite for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, fresh, and come together to create layers of incredible flavor and appealing textures that make this soup a standout. Each component plays a key role, from the spicy sausage that adds depth, to the tender vegetables that bring color and sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed): The flavor powerhouse, providing that perfect spicy and savory base.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds a natural sweetness and aroma that enhances the overall taste.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a punch of savory depth and warmth.
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and sliced): Offer a gentle sweetness and pleasant texture.
- 2 celery stalks (sliced): Adds a subtle earthiness and crunch to balance the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses an herby note that pairs beautifully with the beans and sausage.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the Italian sausage with its warm, slightly bitter undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a hint of heat for those who love a little kick.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (such as cannellini or great northern, drained and rinsed): Provide creamy texture and protein, making the soup hearty and filling.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices): Adds a subtle acidity and freshness that brightens the soup.
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach: Brings vibrant green color and healthy nutrients, wilting down for a tender finish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step unlocks the rich flavors of the sausage, forming a savory foundation for your soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook these together for about 5 to 7 minutes until everything softens and the aromas start to mingle. This gentle sauté softens the veggies, brings out their natural sweetness, and builds complexity in the soup.
Step 3: Add the Herbs and Spices
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Stir everything well to coat the sausage and vegetables in those fragrant seasonings. These herbs add a classic Italian twist that elevates the entire dish.
Step 4: Combine Broth, Beans, and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the drained and rinsed white beans along with the diced tomatoes and their juices. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This is where the soup starts to come alive with warmth, heartiness, and vibrant layers of flavor.
Step 5: Simmer and Add Greens
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld perfectly. Afterward, stir in your chopped kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens have just wilted, adding a fresh, healthy touch to the soup’s rich base.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Taste as you go to reach the perfect balance that feels just right for your palate. Your Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed hot and comforting.
How to Serve Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a handful of chopped fresh parsley brightens the soup with a burst of flavor and color. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few twists of cracked black pepper also adds a delicious finishing touch that makes every spoonful feel special.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with crusty bread or garlic rolls for dipping, or a fresh green salad for a light contrast. A simple side of roasted vegetables or even a grilled cheese sandwich can turn this meal into a delightful feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls lined with a piece of parchment or a colorful napkin to add charm to your table setting. For a fun twist, ladle the soup into individual bread bowls or top with crispy fried sage leaves for extra texture and aroma.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers just as delicious, if not better, than the first serving.
Freezing
To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some room for expansion and avoid freezing the soup with fresh greens; add those fresh after thawing for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the greens when it’s hot again to keep them lively and tender. If the soup thickens too much, simply stir in a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead?
Absolutely! Using turkey or chicken sausage is a great way to lighten this Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe while still keeping that meaty, satisfying flavor.
What if I don’t have kale? Can I substitute other greens?
Yes, spinach is a wonderful alternative that wilts quickly and adds a slightly different, yet delicious flavor. Swiss chard or even collard greens can also work nicely.
Is it okay to use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Canned beans are perfect for this recipe since they save time and still provide that creamy texture and hearty bite you want in the soup.
How spicy is this soup with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild heat that wakes up the flavors without overwhelming the palate. You can always adjust the amount or omit them for a milder version.
Can I add a Parmesan rind during cooking?
Definitely! Adding a Parmesan rind while simmering gives the soup an extra layer of savory, umami richness. Just be sure to remove the rind before serving.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe enough—it’s one of those delicious, crowd-pleasing meals that feels like an instant classic. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s easy to make and wonderfully satisfying. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes one of your favorite go-to soups for cozy days ahead!
Print
Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty Sausage White Bean Soup combines savory Italian sausage with tender white beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for chilly days. Rich in protein and fiber, this gluten-free soup is easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized with kale or spinach for added greens.
Ingredients
Meat and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 celery stalks (sliced)
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (such as cannellini or great northern, drained and rinsed)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove excess grease if necessary to keep the soup light.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Stir in the dried thyme, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. This step ensures the herbs release their flavors before the liquids are added.
- Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, drained and rinsed white beans, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to tenderize.
- Add Greens and Finish Cooking: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use turkey or chicken sausage as a lighter alternative to Italian sausage.
- Spinach can be substituted for kale depending on preference or availability.
- For extra depth of flavor, add a Parmesan rind during simmering and remove before serving.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day.
