Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that warms your soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It’s packed with flavor and made with wholesome ingredients that make it perfect for cozy family dinners or busy weeknights when you need something comforting in a hurry.

What I love most about this soup is its versatility. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want to enjoy some leftovers throughout the week, this dish delivers every time. Plus, it’s simple enough that even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll feel like a kitchen rockstar!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for those hectic nights.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it later in the week or even freeze it for future meals.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, white beans, and kale creates a comforting bowl of goodness that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! Each item adds its own unique flavor and texture to our Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup. Don’t worry; these are easy to find at your local grocery store!

For the Soup Base:

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 small sweet onion, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• 3 tablespoons flour

For the Hearty Components:

• 4 gold potatoes, cubed
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 bunch Tuscan kale, ribs removed and thinly sliced

For Serving:

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Fresh parsley, chives or basil for garnish
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Additional black pepper

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If you prefer a lighter option, try using turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier kick if that’s your style!
• Creaminess factor: For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk or omit it entirely.

How to Make Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add in the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Browning the sausage not only adds flavor but also gives your soup that hearty base we love. Once fully cooked through, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, keep about 1-2 tablespoons of grease from cooking the sausage. Now toss in your diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 4-6 minutes until they soften up. The magic happens when you add garlic along with poultry seasoning, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes—this step helps release all those wonderful flavors into the veggies!

Step 3: Thicken It Up

Next up is adding flour! Stir it into the veggie mixture until everything is coated properly. Then add your cubed potatoes and chicken broth. Bring this delightful mixture to a boil before reducing it down to a simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Final Touches

Now it’s time for my favorite part—bringing everything together! Stir in those white beans and Tuscan kale along with heavy cream and the cooked sausage we set aside earlier. Allow everything to meld together until the kale wilts down beautifully. Finish off with apple cider vinegar for brightness and adjust salt and pepper according to taste.

Step 5: Serve Up Some Love!

Serve your hot soup in bowls topped with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds an extra touch of creaminess that elevates this dish! Don’t forget some crusty bread on the side—it’s perfect for dipping!

Enjoy every spoonful of your homemade Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup! It’s comfort food at its finest.

Pro Tips for Making Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few handy tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use Italian chicken sausage: Opting for chicken sausage instead of traditional pork sausage keeps the dish leaner while still delivering that classic Italian flavor.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to enhance this soup by incorporating additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with a plant-based cream alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together in the fridge overnight for an even cozier meal.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs or spices, such as thyme or oregano, to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.

How to Serve Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup

Presenting this soup can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and satisfying.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or basil on top before serving for a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the hearty soup.
• Grated cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan cheese adds a savory depth and creamy texture that complements the soup wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm hunk of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add another layer of flavor and nutrition while being simple to prepare.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish, providing an irresistible crunch alongside every spoonful.

Enjoy your Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup experience! It’s not only comforting but also makes for great leftovers that everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, pour the soup into a pot over medium heat and warm until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• If using a microwave, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup.

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a wonderful alternative that works well while still keeping the flavors vibrant.

How do I make Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños when sautéing your vegetables.

Is this Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of vegetables, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

Can I substitute kale with another green in this soup?

Definitely! Spinach or Swiss chard are great alternatives that will also add color and nutrients to your soup.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and joy. It’s hearty enough to satisfy but light enough for any season. I truly hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience or any twists you put on it—I’d love to hear from you!