Savor the warmth and comforting flavors of our delectable Sausage White Bean Soup, a dish that is bound to become a new favorite in your weekly meal rotation. This one-pot wonder harmonizes the hearty richness of spicy Italian sausage with creamy white beans and fresh spinach, yielding a tantalizing blend that is both nourishing and satisfying. Perfect for chilly days or busy weeknights, this soup can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for those when time is of the essence.
The appeal of this Sausage White Bean Soup lies not only in its delicious flavor profile but also in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a well-rounded meal that fuels your body without sacrificing taste. Plus, the balance between protein, fiber, and healthy greens makes it a wholesome choice for those looking to enjoy a comforting dish without the guilt. Let’s dive into why you will absolutely love this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage White Bean Soup
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeks!
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal clean-up required, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of spicy sausage, savory herbs, and creamy beans creates a dish bursting with taste.
- Nutritious: High in protein and fiber, this soup supports a balanced diet while comforting the soul.
- Customizable: Easily adjust ingredients, spices, or add extras to make it your own.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you embark on making this delicious Sausage White Bean Soup, it’s essential to set the stage for success in your kitchen. Start by gathering all necessary ingredients and measuring them out to streamline the cooking process. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, which provides ample space for sautéing and simmering. A wooden spoon or spatula will be useful for stirring as the soup cooks. Having your chopped vegetables ready will make it easier to incorporate them into the recipe seamlessly.
Additionally, a can opener is vital for opening the cannellini beans. Lastly, don’t forget to have a ladle handy for serving up this delightful soup. Once you have your tools and ingredients prepped, you’re all set to create a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 19 oz hot Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (no stems)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 15 oz canned cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating your large pot over medium heat. Add the crumbled hot Italian sausage to the pot, allowing it to cook until it turns a rich brown color, which should take about 5 minutes. As the sausage cooks, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring often to ensure even cooking. The onion should become soft and translucent, infusing the oil with flavorful aromatics. Toss in the thyme, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to introduce a warm and spicy flavor that complements the sausage perfectly.
Step 2: Add Carrots & Beans
Once the sausage and veggies are nicely browned, it’s time to add the sliced carrots and half of the rinsed cannellini beans. This forms the base of our hearty soup. Next, pour in the chicken stock. Stir everything together well to combine, then cover with a lid and increase the heat to bring it to a boil. This ensures that the carrots soften nicely as they cook.
Step 3: Simmer
After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the soup simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the carrots become tender enough that they can be easily pierced with a fork. This step allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a deliciously fragrant and inviting scent throughout your kitchen.
Step 4: Add Spinach & Beans
With the carrots softened, add the remaining rinsed cannellini beans and fresh spinach to the pot. Stir these additions in, then cover the pot again and let it cook on low heat just until the spinach wilts, which should only take a couple of minutes. This step enhances the nutritional value of your soup, incorporating fresh greens that provide additional vitamins and minerals.
Step 5: Optional Thickening
If you prefer a thicker soup, consider mashing or blending the remaining beans with a small amount of broth in a separate bowl or container. This creates a creamy texture that enhances the overall consistency of the soup when added back into the pot.
Step 6: Finish with Cream
When you are satisfied with the texture, turn off the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. This will add a luscious creaminess that elevates your soup to a restaurant-quality level. If it appears too thick, feel free to add a splash more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Season & Serve
Lastly, take a moment to taste the soup before serving. Add salt, pepper, and any extra spices as needed to enhance flavor. Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you’d like, garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or serve with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your meal hot, allowing each bite to envelop you in comfort.
Variations
- Protein: Swap hot Italian sausage for chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables like zucchini or kale for variety; they complement the soup well.
- Spices: Adjust the spices by adding smoked paprika or cumin for a distinct flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some pancetta before adding the sausage.
- This soup can be made ahead of time; simply store in an airtight container and reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a slice of crusty sourdough or baguette for dipping, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- Serve with a light side salad to balance out the richness of the soup and add freshness.
Tips
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days; the flavors will deepen over time.
- Consider freezing servings in individual containers for quick meals later.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will intensify as it sits.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months for quick future meals.
What kind of sausage should I use?
Hot Italian sausage adds a wonderful flavor to the soup, but you can opt for chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter version.
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, while canned beans make the cooking process quicker, dried beans can also be used. Just be sure to soak and cook them prior.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Sausage White Bean Soup is a perfect addition to your recipe collection. With its enticing flavors, easy preparation, and nutritious ingredients, it stands as a reminder that wholesome meals can be both delightful and uncomplicated. Don’t hesitate to try your hand at variations by incorporating your favorite vegetables or proteins. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or shared with loved ones, this soup is sure to impress. We encourage you to share your thoughts, comments, or personal twists on this recipe below!
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Sausage White Bean Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A warm and comforting Sausage White Bean Soup that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 19 oz hot Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (no stems)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 15 oz canned cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 5 oz fresh spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by heating your large pot over medium heat. Add the crumbled hot Italian sausage to the pot, allowing it to cook until it turns a rich brown color, which should take about 5 minutes. As the sausage cooks, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring often to ensure even cooking. The onion should become soft and translucent, infusing the oil with flavorful aromatics. Toss in the thyme, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to introduce a warm and spicy flavor that complements the sausage perfectly.
- Once the sausage and veggies are nicely browned, it’s time to add the sliced carrots and half of the rinsed cannellini beans. This forms the base of our hearty soup. Next, pour in the chicken stock. Stir everything together well to combine, then cover with a lid and increase the heat to bring it to a boil. This ensures that the carrots soften nicely as they cook.
- After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the soup simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the carrots become tender enough that they can be easily pierced with a fork. This step allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a deliciously fragrant and inviting scent throughout your kitchen.
- With the carrots softened, add the remaining rinsed cannellini beans and fresh spinach to the pot. Stir these additions in, then cover the pot again and let it cook on low heat just until the spinach wilts, which should only take a couple of minutes. This step enhances the nutritional value of your soup, incorporating fresh greens that provide additional vitamins and minerals.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, consider mashing or blending the remaining beans with a small amount of broth in a separate bowl or container. This creates a creamy texture that enhances the overall consistency of the soup when added back into the pot.
- When you are satisfied with the texture, turn off the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. This will add a luscious creaminess that elevates your soup to a restaurant-quality level. If it appears too thick, feel free to add a splash more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Lastly, take a moment to taste the soup before serving. Add salt, pepper, and any extra spices as needed to enhance flavor. Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you’d like, garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or serve with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your meal hot, allowing each bite to envelop you in comfort.
Notes
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days; the flavors will deepen over time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 20 g