Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup – Best Comfort Recipe

Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is the perfect recipe to warm you up on a chilly evening. This hearty and flavorful soup is rich in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for any season. It’s easy to make and comes together in less than an hour, making it ideal for a busy weeknight meal. Whether you’re cooking it on the stovetop, in the Instant Pot, or using a slow cooker, this comforting soup will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup

What makes this soup stand out is its balance of savory Italian sausage, tender white beans, and hearty vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes. The rich, creamy broth is infused with garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, creating a perfect blend of flavors. It’s filling enough to be a standalone meal, but also pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crusty loaf of bread. Plus, it’s customizable for different diets, making it a versatile dish for everyone to enjoy.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: The key protein in this soup, giving it a rich, savory flavor that enhances the broth.
• Sweet onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the soup.
• Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Celery: Provides a fresh, crisp texture and balances the flavors.
• Garlic: Adds depth and richness to the overall flavor profile.
• Poultry seasoning: A subtle mix of herbs that complements the sausage perfectly.
• Italian seasoning: Brings an earthy, herbaceous note that’s classic in Italian cooking.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors.
• Red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat to the soup for a bit of spice.
• Flour: Helps thicken the soup, creating a creamy texture.
• Gold potatoes: Soft, waxy potatoes that hold their shape and add heartiness to the soup.
• Chicken broth: The base of the soup, creating a rich and savory broth.
• White beans: These beans add protein, fiber, and a creamy texture.
• Heavy cream: Gives the soup a rich, creamy finish.
• Tuscan kale: A flavorful, nutrient-dense green that adds texture and color.
• Red wine vinegar: Balances the richness with a touch of acidity.
• Fresh parsley, chives, or basil: For garnish, adding freshness and brightness.
• Parmesan cheese: A final touch that brings extra flavor and richness.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Italian sausage substitute: If you prefer a leaner option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage can be used instead of pork sausage.
• Vegetarian version: Use plant-based sausage or omit the sausage entirely and add more beans or a variety of vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Cream substitute: For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the sausage: Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-6 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, poultry seasoning, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let the spices bloom for about 60 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
4. Coat with flour: Sprinkle in the flour, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly.
5. Add potatoes and broth: Toss in the cubed potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the broth thickens.
6. Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the white beans, Tuscan kale, heavy cream, and browned sausage. Let the kale wilt down into the soup.
7. Finish with red wine vinegar: Stir in the red wine vinegar and season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a dash of black pepper. Serve with a hunk of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips & Tricks

• Check potato doneness: Make sure the potatoes are fork-tender before adding the beans and kale.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional red pepper flakes if needed.
• Slow cooker option: Brown the sausage in a skillet, then transfer it to a slow cooker. Add the veggies, seasonings, potatoes, and broth, and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the beans, kale, and cream in the last 15 minutes.
• Instant Pot: Brown the sausage in the Instant Pot, sauté the veggies, and cook under pressure for 6 minutes. Stir in the beans, kale, and cream, then finish with red wine vinegar.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup pairs wonderfully with a loaf of rustic bread or a side of garlic bread for a satisfying meal. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup. For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or serve with hot sauce.

If you want to make it gluten-free, simply swap the flour for cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese.

A Seasonal Favorite

Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is perfect for the cooler months, especially during fall and winter. The heartiness of the sausage and potatoes combined with the warmth of the seasonings makes it an ideal comfort food for cold nights. The addition of Tuscan kale adds a seasonal, nutrient-packed green, making this soup as healthy as it is delicious.

With its easy preparation and comforting flavors, this soup is a must-try for anyone looking to make a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is the perfect cozy dish for any time of year. With its hearty ingredients, savory sausage, and rich broth, this soup offers a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a chilly evening or making it ahead for meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. The versatility of this dish, whether made on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in the Instant Pot, ensures that it can fit into any busy schedule.

Give this easy and delicious soup a try and enjoy a comforting bowl that warms both the body and the soul. Serve it with your favorite bread and fresh herbs for a complete meal. It’s a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your weeknight routine while enjoying the flavors of Italy.

FAQ About Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup

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