There’s something magical about a bowl of soup that warms not just your belly, but your soul. This Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is one of those dishes that feels like a cozy hug on a cold day. I remember the first time I tasted it—sitting around the table at a little Italian bistro with friends, laughter mingling with the aroma of savory sausage and fresh herbs. I knew I had to recreate that moment at home, and let me tell you, my version has become a favorite!
Why you’ll love this recipe
So, why should you whip up a pot of this deliciousness tonight? First and foremost, the flavors! The rich, robust taste of Italian sausage blends beautifully with creamy cannellini beans and a medley of sautéed veggies, creating a harmonious balance that sings in your mouth. It’s simple, yet special enough to serve at a gathering or keep all to yourself on a quiet evening. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder! Minimal cleanup after indulging? Yes, please.
Nutritionally speaking, this soup also checks off some major boxes. You’ve got the protein punch from the sausage and beans, heart-healthy fats from the olive oil, and a vibrant splash of greens from the spinach. It’s not just comfort food; it’s a nutritious meal that will keep you energized and cozy.
Gather these ingredients
- Italian sausage (1 pound): Look for a good-quality sausage with herbs and spices that really pop. If you’re feeling adventurous, try spicy sausage for an added kick!
- Bacon (4 slices): Ah, bacon—the crunchy delight that adds depth and smokiness. Consider turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- Spinach (1 cup): Fresh is best, but frozen works in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water!
- Cannellini beans (1 can, 15 oz): Creamy white beans that bring that hearty texture. If you’re feeling fancy, soak and cook dried beans for an even richer flavor.
- Onion (1, diced): A classic base for any savory dish—don’t skimp on this. The sweetness of a yellow onion is divine.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Because can you ever have too much garlic? It’s the aromatic magic that ties everything together.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): This adds the soul of the soup. Homemade is great if you have it on hand, but store-bought works perfectly too.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend crucial for that authentic Italian flavor. Don’t hesitate to add a pinch more if you love the taste of herbs!
- Salt and pepper: Always taste as you go! Seasoning is your secret weapon.
- Olive oil: Just a splash for sautéing. It’s like the soothing balm that brings everything together.
How this recipe comes together
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Leave the glorious drippings in the pot.
- Next, add the Italian sausage. Cook until it’s nicely browned, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside with the bacon.
- In the same pot, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed and sauté the diced onion until it’s translucent, about 4-5 minutes. The aroma will already start to draw you in! Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute—don’t underestimate the power of toasting those garlic flavors.
- Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, spinach, and Italian seasoning. Bring this fragrant concoction to a boil—it’s a sight for sore eyes!
- Return the cooked sausage and crumbled bacon to the pot. Let everything simmer together for 15-20 minutes. Your home will smell utterly divine by now.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Best way to enjoy it
When it comes to serving, I love to ladle this soup into generous bowls, topped with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It adds that extra layer of richness. A hearty loaf of crusty bread or a simple side salad pairs beautifully, bringing a fresh contrast to the luscious soup. You might even consider a glass of red wine; it’s like an Italian feast at your table!
Keeping leftovers fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This soup stores quite well. Just cool it to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Want to freeze it? You can totally do that! Divide it into portions and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave—add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Helpful cooking tips
A few pro tips to make this dish truly shine: Remember to taste as you go! If you enjoy a bit more spice, toss in red pepper flakes, or for a twist, add or substitute kale instead of spinach. Don’t be afraid to experiment; a squeeze of lemon or a handful of fresh herbs at the end can brighten up the flavors nicely!
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the Italian sausage for chicken sausage or even a plant-based version for a vegetarian twist. Add some diced tomatoes for a touch of acidity, or throw in different beans like kidney beans for added texture. There’s so much room for creativity here!
Common questions
- How long does this soup take to make? Approximately 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
- Can I use other beans? For sure! Kidney beans or navy beans would work wonderfully too.
- Best way to reheat? Gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave in intervals, stirring occasionally.
- Can I add more veggies? Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers can be tossed in when you sauté the onions for added nutrition.
- Is it spicy? It depends! Use mild sausage for a subtle heat, or opt for spicy sausage if you want to turn up the heat.
As I wrap this up, I can’t help but think about how comforting this soup can be in so many ways. Packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for sharing or cozying up to alone, I encourage you to give it a shot! Experiment with your own twists, and I’d love to hear how it goes in the comments! Let’s get cooking together, and may your kitchen be filled with laughter and delicious aromas.
A cozy bowl of warmth and nutrition.
Description
This Italian Sausage White Bean Soup blends rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and fresh spinach into a comforting one-pot dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- In the same pot, cook the Italian sausage until browned, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil if needed and sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, spinach, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Return cooked sausage and crumbled bacon to the pot. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Notes
- This soup stores well and can be frozen. Just cool it before storing.
