Sausage White Bean Soup

Introduction

There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. Recently, I decided to try my hand at making Sausage White Bean Soup, a recipe I stumbled upon during my quest for quick, satisfying meals. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish quickly became a family favorite. As I prepared it, I was met with the delightful aroma of spices and sautéed vegetables wafting through the kitchen, making everyone eagerly anticipate dinner. The combination of spicy Italian sausage, hearty white beans, and fresh spinach creates a comforting meal that is not only delicious but also nutritious. In just 30 minutes, we had a meal that warmed our bellies and our hearts.

Ingredients

• 19 ounces spicy (hot) crumbled Italian sausage
• 1 small chopped onion
• 4 cloves minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 medium sliced carrots
• 15 ounces canned cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 5 ounces fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook sausage and vegetables: In a large saucepan, add the crumbled sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, fresh thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook over medium heat, stirring regularly, until the onion softens and starts to brown, about 5 minutes.
2. Add carrots and beans: Stir in the sliced carrots and half of the rinsed and drained cannellini beans. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Make soup: Pour in the chicken stock and stir well. Cover the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
4. Add spinach and remaining beans: Add the fresh spinach and the remaining white beans to the pot. Cover and let the spinach wilt on low heat for about 3-5 minutes.
5. Thicken (optional): If you prefer a thicker soup, transfer half of the remaining white beans along with a ladle of soup liquid to a blender. Blend until smooth, or for a chunkier texture, mash them with a fork. Return the blended mixture back to the pot.
6. Finish: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Adjust the seasonings with salt, pepper, and additional red pepper flakes if desired. Top with fresh thyme before serving.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy your delicious Sausage White Bean Soup!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400
• Total Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 24g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 19g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls.
• Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for added flavor.
• Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Drizzle with a little extra heavy cream for a touch of elegance.
• Pair with a light white wine or sparkling water.

Additional Tips

1. Use lean sausage: For a healthier option, use lean ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage.
2. Add more veggies: Feel free to add additional vegetables like celery or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
3. Make it vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
4. Adjust the spice level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or choose mild sausage.
5. Prepare in advance: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great meal prep option.

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Tomato Variation: Add a can of diced tomatoes along with the chicken stock for a tomato-based soup.
• Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a unique flavor profile.
• Bean Variation: Use different types of beans such as navy beans or black beans for a twist on the traditional recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who enjoy an extra cheesy touch.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken stock to loosen it up.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
   Yes, but you will need to soak and cook them beforehand.
2. Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?
   Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the seasoning since vegetable stock can be less flavorful.
3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Ensure the sausage and chicken stock are gluten-free, and you can safely enjoy this soup!
4. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.
5. How long does this soup last in the fridge?
   It will last about 3-4 days in an airtight container.
6. Can I add pasta to this soup?
   Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo can be added during the simmering stage.
7. What if I don’t have fresh spinach?
   You can use frozen spinach; just add it in the last few minutes of cooking.
8. Is this soup spicy?
   The spiciness comes from the sausage and red pepper flakes. Adjust these to your taste preference.
9. Can I add cheese to the soup?
   Definitely! Stir in some grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for extra richness.
10. Is this soup kid-friendly?
    Yes, the flavors are mild enough for kids, but you can adjust the heat to suit their tastes.

Conclusion

Sausage White Bean Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish that brings smiles to the table. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or as a cozy weekend treat, it’s sure to impress. With its balance of spicy sausage, creamy beans, and vibrant spinach, this soup is not only hearty but also incredibly satisfying. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your home!

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