Description
This hearty Sausage and White Bean Soup combines savory Italian sausage with tender white beans and fresh vegetables, simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days, this comforting soup is easy to prepare on the stovetop and can be customized with kale or spinach for added nutrition. Garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, it makes a satisfying and warming meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Other Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Remove any excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Aromatics and Herbs: Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant to enhance the flavor base.
- Add Liquids and Beans: Pour in the undrained canned diced tomatoes, rinsed white beans, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add Greens: If using kale or spinach, stir them into the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing the greens to wilt and incorporate into the soup.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, mash some of the white beans before adding them to the soup.
- This soup stores well and often tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete, hearty meal.
