Why Make This Recipe
Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out. It combines rich flavors of Italian sausage with creamy white beans and fresh vegetables, making it not just delicious, but also nutritious. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a weekend gathering.
Making this recipe is easier than you might think. The use of simple ingredients and one pot makes it a go-to meal on busy weeknights. Plus, cooking with Italian sausage adds a delightful kick to the overall flavor.
Equipment Needed for Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
To whip up this fantastic soup, you will need a few key pieces of equipment.
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle for serving
Having these tools at your disposal will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
What You Need to Make Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 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
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 4 gold potatoes, cubed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed (about 15 oz each)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 bunch Tuscan kale, ribs removed and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- For serving: fresh parsley, chives or basil, parmesan cheese, black pepper
How to Cook Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup Step by Step
Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until it browns and is fully cooked, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot for added flavor.
Next, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 4-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion turns translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic, poultry seasoning, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Continue to cook this mixture for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
Now sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat them evenly. Then, toss in the cubed potatoes and pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds a rich flavor to your soup. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
After the potatoes are cooked, stir in the white beans, Tuscan kale, heavy cream, and the reserved cooked sausage. Allow the kale to wilt for 2-3 minutes. Finally, finish the soup with a splash of red wine vinegar and give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley, chives, or basil. Don’t forget to sprinkle some parmesan cheese and a bit of black pepper on top for extra flavor. Pair it with crusty bread for a delightful meal.
How to Make Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
To make this soup, start by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery; mince the garlic; and cube the potatoes. This will allow the cooking process to go smoothly without any interruptions.
In a large pot, heat the Italian sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Once cooked, set it aside, and add the vegetables to the pot. Cook until softened, then season with herbs and spices. Mixing in the flour helps to build up the soup’s thickness.
Gradually introduce the chicken broth and potatoes to the mix. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, then add in the white beans and Tuscan kale. Finish with heavy cream and vinegar for richness and tang.
How to Serve Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
Serving this soup is simple. Ladle the warm soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a good mix of sausage, beans, and vegetables. You can offer toppings on the side, like fresh herbs, parmesan cheese, and freshly ground black pepper, so everyone can customize their bowl.
Pair this dish with some crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A side salad can also complement the meal well, adding freshness to the table.
What to Serve with Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
When it comes to sides, there are plenty of options that go well with Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette works beautifully to balance the rich flavors of the soup.
Garlic bread is a classic choice. It adds texture and flavor, perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. You might also consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables for a healthy addition to your meal.
If you enjoy wine, a glass of red wine pairs nicely, enhancing the flavors of the sausage. For a family-friendly option, lemonade or iced tea can be a refreshing choice.
How to Store Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
Leftovers from Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup can be stored easily. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it for a more extended period, consider freezing it. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, ensuring you leave some space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed thoroughly. Add a bit of broth or water to loosen it if needed.
Tips to Make Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
For best results, consider using a mix of different beans for added texture. You can also experiment with the spices; adding more red pepper flakes increases the heat, making the soup even spicier.
Always taste your soup before serving. This will help you decide if it needs more salt, pepper, or herbs. Fresh herbs can be added right before serving to give the soup a bright flavor.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can puree a portion of it using an immersion blender. This gives the soup a nice creamy texture while still leaving plenty of chunky ingredients.
Variation
While the traditional recipe is fantastic, there are several variations you can explore. You could substitute the Tuscan kale with spinach or Swiss chard for a different leafier flavor.
Using turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage can lighten the dish. Additionally, you may want to switch out the heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version, giving the soup a unique twist.
Best Time to Make Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is perfect for fall and winter months when you crave something hearty and comforting. However, it’s great for any day of the year.
Looking for a quick weeknight meal? This recipe can be whipped up in under an hour, making it perfect for a busy schedule. You can prepare a big batch for a weekend gathering or meal prep for the week ahead.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the vegetables at the beginning. Make sure to sauté just until they’re softened but not mushy.
Another mistake is adding too much salt early on. It’s better to season during the cooking process and adjust to taste right before serving.
Lastly, not letting the flavors develop by simmering for enough time can lead to a less flavorful soup. Give it ample time for the ingredients to meld perfectly.
Nutritional Notes
Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is rich in protein and fiber. The beans and sausage provide a good source of both. It also has plenty of vegetables contributing vitamins and minerals.
You can control the calorie count by adjusting the amount of cream and sausage used. For a lighter soup, consider reducing the heavy cream or using a low-fat alternative.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you will need to cook them beforehand, which requires more planning.
Is this soup gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free flour or skip the flour entirely, the soup can be gluten-free.
How can I make this soup faster?
You can use pre-chopped vegetables and ready-made sausage to cut down on prep time significantly.
Conclusion
Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is a delicious and nourishing dish that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. With its comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or just looking for a satisfying meal, this recipe fits the bill. Enjoy making, serving, and relishing every spoonful of this delightful soup!
