This Italian sausage white bean soup is a delightful dish that combines hearty flavors and comforting textures. Perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings, this soup stands out with its rich blend of Italian sausage, savory bacon, and nutrient-packed spinach. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and bacon creates a mouthwatering base that makes each spoonful satisfying.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with cannellini beans and fresh spinach, this soup offers both protein and vitamins.
- Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in under an hour.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later on.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process seamless.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
- Cutting board
- Kitchen shears
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: This is essential for cooking the soup evenly without risk of spillage.
- Immersion blender: Perfect for pureeing the soup without needing to transfer it to another container, saving time and effort.
- Kitchen shears: Great for cutting bacon easily without mess; they make prep work much faster.
Ingredients
This flavorful Italian sausage white bean soup recipe is loaded with bacon and sausage, fresh spinach, and tender cannellini beans. It’s simple to make and so cozy!
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (see note)
- 4 strips bacon
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 (14 ounce) cans white beans (cannellini) (drained)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 small carrots (peeled & chopped small)
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to Make Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
Step 1: Cook the Meats
Add the sausage meat to a large soup pot along with the bacon.
– Cook over medium-high heat until both are crispy and the fat has rendered out. This will take about 15 minutes.
– While cooking, prep your other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Transfer the sausage and bacon to a plate while leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot.
– Add the chopped onion to the pot.
– Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
– Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add drained cannellini beans, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and dried rosemary into the pot.
– Stir well to combine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Purée the Soup
Remove the pot from heat.
– Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until desired consistency is reached.
– Leave some beans whole for texture if preferred.
Step 5: Simmer with Vegetables
Return cooked sausage and bacon to the pot along with chopped carrots.
– Place on high heat until boiling.
– Cover with lid slightly ajar; reduce heat to simmer for 15-20 minutes or until carrots are tender.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Serve
Stir in fresh baby spinach until wilted, about one or two minutes.
– Taste your soup and season with salt & pepper as needed before serving immediately.
Enjoy this comforting bowl of Italian sausage white bean soup!
How to Serve Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
This hearty Italian sausage white bean soup is perfect for cozy nights or gatherings with friends. Here are some creative ways to serve it and enhance the dining experience.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Baguette: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These add a flavorful twist and are great for soaking up the broth.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons complement the rich flavors of the soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
Garnish for Extra Flavor
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top for an extra savory kick.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil just before serving for added freshness.
Serve with a Side of Pasta
- Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables mixed with pasta can balance the richness of the soup.
- Penne Aglio e Olio: This simple dish offers garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with the soup.
How to Perfect Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
To make your Italian sausage white bean soup even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Sausage: Choosing high-quality Italian sausage enhances the overall flavor of your soup.
- Sauté Vegetables Well: Properly cooking your onions and garlic adds depth to the base of your soup.
- Adjust Thickness: Use less broth for a thicker texture or more broth if you prefer a lighter soup.
- Experiment with Greens: Besides spinach, try kale or Swiss chard for different flavors and textures.
- Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to rest after cooking can deepen its flavors before serving.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go; add salt and pepper at multiple stages for balanced seasoning.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Italian sausage white bean soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.
- Garlic Bread: This classic choice is perfect for scooping up soup and adds delicious garlic flavor.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Cheese Toasts: Top slices of bread with cheese and broil until bubbly for a cheesy accompaniment.
- Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, this dish offers fresh flavors to balance the richness of the soup.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto pairs wonderfully, making your meal feel more luxurious.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful texture contrast to the soup’s heartiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian sausage white bean soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the bacon: Bacon adds a delightful depth of flavor. Don’t skip it—use it for a richer taste.
- Overcooking the spinach: Spinach wilts quickly. Add it at the end and just let it cook for a minute or two to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Not seasoning properly: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
- Using low-quality sausage: The sausage is a key ingredient. Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
- Neglecting texture: Blend too much and you lose texture. Leave some beans whole for a hearty feel in your soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Italian sausage white bean soup.
What can I add to my Italian Sausage White Bean Soup?
You can add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Herbs like parsley or thyme also work well.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I thicken my Italian Sausage White Bean Soup?
If you’d like a thicker consistency, blend more of the beans or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
How long does it take to make Italian Sausage White Bean Soup?
The total time is about 55 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Final Thoughts
This Italian sausage white bean soup is not only cozy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting the spices to fit your taste. Try this recipe soon; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
Indulge in the warmth of Italian Sausage White Bean Soup, a delightful blend of hearty flavors and comforting textures. This cozy dish features savory Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and nutrient-rich spinach, making it the perfect companion for chilly evenings or gatherings. Simple to prepare with everyday ingredients, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich taste while reaping the benefits of protein-packed cannellini beans and fresh greens. Whip it up in just under an hour, and savor every spoonful!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 4 strips bacon
- ½ medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 (14-ounce) cans cannellini beans (drained)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 small carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, cook the Italian sausage and bacon over medium-high heat until crispy, about 15 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the remaining fat, sauté onion until softened (3-5 minutes), then add garlic for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in drained beans, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and rosemary, scraping any browned bits from the pot.
- Remove from heat and purée with an immersion blender until desired consistency is reached.
- Return meats and add chopped carrots; bring to a boil, cover slightly ajar, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until carrots are tender.
- Stir in spinach until wilted; season with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
