Sausage and White Bean Soup: A Cozy Winter Delight

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Sausage and white bean soup is a hearty, creamy dish that warms your soul. It’s quick and easy, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. This comforting soup is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a must-try for chilly nights.

Why You’ll Love Sausage and White Bean Soup

Comforting and Hearty Flavors

This sausage and white bean soup combines savory Italian sausage with tender white beans for a deliciously creamy texture. Each bite is a warm hug, thanks to the rich chicken broth and the hint of red pepper flakes. You’ll find yourself craving this bowl of comfort time and again.

Perfect for Winter Nights

As the temperature drops, nothing beats a steaming bowl of soup. This dish is filling and nutritious, making it ideal for those cold winter evenings. It’s family-friendly and can easily be doubled for gatherings. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

What You’ll Need to Make Sausage and White Bean Soup

Essential Ingredients

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
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Pinch red pepper flakes
3 tablespoons flour
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
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Fresh parsley, chives or basil, for serving
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Black pepper, for serving

Optional Additions for Customization

Feel free to customize your soup! You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or corn for more color and nutrients. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with plant-based alternatives. Also, consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter flavor.

How to Make Sausage and White Bean Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once golden and cooked through, transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving some grease in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for 4-6 minutes until they soften. Next, stir in the minced garlic and seasonings, letting their fragrant flavors bloom for about a minute.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and mix well. Add the cubed potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes. This allows the broth to thicken and the potatoes to become tender.

Step 4: Add Final Ingredients

Next, stir in the white beans, Tuscan kale, and heavy cream. Allow the kale to wilt, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. Finish by adding the red wine vinegar and taste, adjusting the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your sausage and white bean soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread, and you have a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Delicious sausage and white bean soup ready for serving.

Variation Ideas

Vegetarian and Plant-Based Options

If you want to make this soup vegetarian, simply replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage. You can also add extra beans for a protein boost, keeping it hearty and satisfying.

Gluten-Free Modifications

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour alternative, or simply omit the flour altogether. The soup will still taste wonderful, and you won’t lose any of that comforting creaminess.

Extra Vegetables and Flavor Enhancements

Consider adding extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or even sweet corn for more nutrition and flavor. Each addition creates a unique twist on this classic soup, making every bowl special.

Expert Tips for the Best Soup

Browning the Sausage for Flavor

Don’t rush the browning process of the sausage. This step adds depth and richness to your soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Blooming Spices for Depth

Blooming the spices in the sautéed vegetables helps release their essential oils. This process makes the soup aromatic and vibrant, infusing every bite with delicious flavors.

Meal Prep and Storage Suggestions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little broth if it thickens too much. You can also freeze the soup for up to three months for a quick meal later.

FAQs

How long is bean soup safe to eat?

Bean soup can safely be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. If frozen, it maintains quality for up to three months.

How many calories are in white bean and sausage soup?

One serving of sausage and white bean soup contains approximately 552 calories.

What are some common mistakes in bean soup?

Common mistakes include undercooking the beans, using too much salt, and not allowing enough time for flavors to meld.

What bread goes with sausage and bean soup?

Crusty bread, like a sourdough or French baguette, pairs beautifully with sausage and bean soup.

Conclusion

This sausage and white bean soup is an excellent way to warm your heart and fill your belly. It’s nutritious, quick to make, and sure to become a favorite.

For more delicious ideas, check out Elly’s recipes on Pinterest for inspiration. They offer plenty of family-friendly meals to try at home!