Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is a delightful dish that warms both the body and soul. Imagine the rich taste of savory Italian sausage combined with tender white beans and vibrant kale, creating a satisfying meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or when you simply want a comforting meal that fills you up and leaves you smiling.

As you prepare and serve this delightful soup, the aromas emanating from your kitchen will draw everyone in, making them eager to taste the delicious flavors. In this article, you will find a step-by-step guide to crafting this hearty dish, along with helpful tips for serving and storing, plus options for customization. Get ready to dive into a warm, hearty bowl of Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup that you can easily enjoy anytime!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh ingredients: Made with high-quality vegetables, sausage, and beans, this soup is bursting with flavor.
Ease of preparation: It’s simple to make, even for beginners—just chop, sauté, and simmer!
Nutrition: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a healthy choice for the whole family.
Versatility: Customize it with your favorite greens or spices for a personal touch.
Presentation: The rich colors and textures make this soup beautiful when served.

You’re sure to love every aspect of this easy, delicious recipe!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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
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
For serving: fresh parsley, chives or basil, parmesan cheese, black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, remove it to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving behind 1-2 tablespoons of grease.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 4-6 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic, poultry seasoning, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and let the spices bloom for about 1 minute.
Toss in the flour, stirring to coat the veggies evenly.
Add the cubed potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes, until the broth thickens and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Stir in the white beans, Tuscan kale, heavy cream, and the cooked sausage. Let the kale wilt down for a few minutes.
Finish with 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar and adjust with extra salt or pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and black pepper, accompanied by a hunk of crusty bread!

How to Serve

Presentation: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with herbs and cheese for a pretty touch.
Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Portions: This recipe makes several generous servings, perfect for a family gathering.
Beverage pairing: Pair with a glass of red wine or sparkling water for a delightful drink choice.

Enjoy this comforting soup with extras for an impressive and delicious meal!

Additional Tips

Experiment with spices by adding more heat or different herbs to enhance flavor.
Customize with other greens, like spinach or chard, if you prefer.
For a fun twist, serve it with a sprinkle of crumbled feta for a salty kick.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Sausage: Use hot Italian sausage for an extra kick that spice lovers will enjoy.
Vegetarian Option: Swap sausage for mushrooms or a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients (except cream) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off version.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Cool completely before freezing in a sealed container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Special Equipment

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife
Ladle for serving

FAQ’s

Can I use frozen ingredients? Yes, frozen veggies and beans work well, but may alter texture slightly.
Is this soup healthy? Absolutely! It’s packed with protein from the sausage, fiber from the beans, and vitamins from the vegetables.
Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, it actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Can I customize the ingredients? Definitely! Feel free to add different vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
What about alternative cooking methods? You can make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is a wholesome and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Its flavors and warmth make it an ideal meal for family dinners or cozy nights in. With fresh ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe brings health and heartiness to your table. So gather your ingredients and get ready to delight in a bowl of deliciousness!