Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup Recipe

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If you’re craving something hearty, soul-warming, and bursting with flavor, you absolutely must try this Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup. It’s a beautiful blend of savory Italian sausage, tender white beans, vibrant kale, and creamy broth that comes together in one pot to create the ultimate comforting meal. This soup isn’t just delicious—it’s a conversation starter, a bowl full of memories, and a perfect recipe to fall in love with on a chilly day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the spices that bring warmth to the dish, to the creamy finish that makes each spoonful velvety and satisfying.

• Italian sausage: Choose high-quality sausage for the best flavor and juicy texture.
• Small sweet onion: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory sausage perfectly.
• Carrots: Provide a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
• Celery stalks: Introduce a mild, aromatic crunch that builds the soup’s flavor foundation.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic brings an irresistible aroma and depth to every bite.
• Poultry seasoning: Enhances the overall warmth and complexity of the soup’s profile.
• Italian seasoning: Infuses that classic Italian herb flavor fans adore.
• Kosher salt: Seasoning that lifts and balances all the ingredients.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and sharpness to the mix.
• Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch offers a subtle spicy kick without overpowering.
• Flour: Helps thicken the broth to the perfect creamy consistency.
• Gold potatoes: These melt-in-your-mouth chunks add body and heartiness.
• Chicken broth: The savory liquid base that ties all the flavors together.
• White beans: Provide a soft, creamy texture along with protein and fiber.
• Heavy cream: Enriches the soup, making it luxuriously smooth and indulgent.
• Tuscan kale: Adds earthy notes and a wonderful freshness while packing nutrients.
• Red wine vinegar: A splash at the end brightens and balances the richness.
• Fresh parsley, chives or basil: For garnish and fresh garden-like aroma.
• Parmesan cheese: The perfect salty finish that melts beautifully on top.

How to Make Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup

Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage

Begin by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown fully, rendering out some flavorful fat. This step builds a delicious base with rich, meaty depth. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a paper towel to drain excess grease but leave 1 to 2 tablespoons behind in the pot; that little bit of fat will add amazing flavor to the veggies you’ll sauté next.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Bloom the Spices

In the leftover sausage fat, toss in diced sweet onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté this trio for 4 to 6 minutes until soft and aromatic. Then add the minced garlic along with poultry seasoning, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything for about a minute so the spices bloom and release their beautiful aromas. This step is essential—it layers the soup with robust, inviting flavors.

Step 3: Thicken and Simmer with Potatoes and Broth

Sprinkle in the flour, stirring thoroughly to coat the softened vegetables evenly. Flour acts as the secret thickening agent for that lush soup texture. Add cubed gold potatoes and pour in six cups of chicken broth. Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 20 minutes or until the broth has thickened slightly and the potatoes are tender. This simmering stage melds the ingredients, creating a rich, comforting base.

Step 4: Finish with Beans, Kale, Cream, and Sausage

Now, fold in the drained white beans, thinly sliced Tuscan kale, heavy cream, and the browned sausage you set aside earlier. As the kale wilts into the creamy soup and the beans soften further, you’ll notice the soup growing more luscious and hearty. Last but not least, stir in two tablespoons of red wine vinegar to brighten the flavors and add a lovely hint of acidity. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

How to Serve Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup

Garnishes

Don’t skip the garnishes—they truly elevate the experience. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil add bursts of color and refreshing brightness on top. A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese melts deliciously into each warm bowl, adding a salty, nutty finish. Finally, a fresh crack of black pepper on the surface brings a touch of heat and complexity.

Side Dishes

This soup is quite filling on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or golden garlic toasts takes the meal to the next level. The bread lets you soak up every last bit of that creamy soup and adds an enjoyable crunch to contrast the tender beans and kale. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is also a lovely side, helping to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup in rustic bowls for a cozy, homey vibe. For a festive touch, ladle the soup into bread bowls for edible containers that impress any guest. You could also drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil or a few drops of chili oil on top for added flavor and a beautiful finish. Adding shaved Parmesan right before serving adds texture and an irresistible salty bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors even better the next day as they meld further. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop, ensuring the kale and cream stay creamy and tender after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to bring it back to your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—sometimes the flavors brighten beautifully with a quick pinch of salt or a splash of vinegar at this stage.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative and will still provide plenty of flavor, just make sure it’s well-seasoned to maintain the soup’s savory richness.

What kind of white beans work best in this soup?

Great Northern beans or cannellini beans are perfect because they become tender but don’t fall apart too easily, adding creamy texture without losing shape.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Swap out the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get a wonderfully flavorful soup.

Can I prepare the soup ahead of time and reheat it later?

Definitely, and it actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it properly in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

What can I substitute for Tuscan kale if I can’t find it?

Swiss chard or curly kale work nicely as alternatives. Just be sure to remove any tough stems and slice them thinly for even wilting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a soup that’s as hearty as it is comforting, this Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is a winner in every way. It’s simple to make, packed with flavors that feel like a warm hug, and perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. So go ahead—grab these ingredients, cook up a pot, and get ready to fall in love with a new favorite comfort meal that will brighten chilly nights and cozy afternoons alike.

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