This Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is the perfect dish for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends and family. Rich with flavors from crispy bacon, savory sausage, and hearty cannellini beans, this soup is both comforting and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or chilly weekends. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or an appetizer, this soup is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and bacon creates a rich, savory base that’s packed with flavor.
- Hearty and filling: With tender beans and fresh spinach, this soup is a complete meal that will keep you satisfied.
- Quick preparation: This recipe can be prepared in under an hour, so you can enjoy a homemade meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
- Perfect for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful Italian sausage white bean soup, having the right tools will make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Immersion blender (or regular blender)
- Cutting board
- Kitchen shears (for cutting bacon)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: A sturdy pot allows for even cooking and provides enough space to hold all the ingredients.
- Immersion blender: This handy tool makes blending easy without transferring hot liquid to a separate blender.
- Cutting board: A good cutting board ensures safe chopping of veggies and meats while protecting your countertops.
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. Cut the bacon into smaller pieces using kitchen shears for even cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Until Crispy
Cook over medium-high heat until both the sausage and bacon are crispy and their fat has rendered out, which can take about 15 minutes. While cooking, prep your other ingredients.
Step 3: Prepare Aromatics
Transfer the cooked meats to a plate but leave about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add drained cannellini beans, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and rosemary. Stir well while scraping any brown bits off the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
Step 6: Blend Soup Base
Remove from heat. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth while leaving some beans whole for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer some beans to a regular blender or use a potato masher for rustic texture.
Step 7: Return Meats & Add Carrots
Put the cooked sausage and bacon back into the pot along with chopped carrots. Place over high heat until boiling.
Step 8: Simmer
Cover slightly ajar with a lid; reduce heat to simmer for 15-20 minutes until carrots are softened.
Step 9: Finish with Spinach
Stir in fresh baby spinach until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt & pepper as needed. Serve immediately for best results!
How to Serve Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
Serving Italian sausage white bean soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that enhance its flavors and presentation.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty baguette or artisan loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup. The bread absorbs the flavors and adds a delightful texture.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup. It adds freshness to your meal.
Top with Parmesan Cheese
- Grating fresh Parmesan cheese over each bowl enhances the umami flavor of the soup. It also provides a creamy finish.
Add a Splash of Lemon Juice
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish, balancing the savory notes of the sausage and beans. This simple addition makes a big difference.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- For a more elegant presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls topped with herbs or extra spinach. This makes it great for entertaining.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Adding chopped parsley or basil as a garnish not only looks appealing but also adds a burst of freshness and aroma to each serving.
How to Perfect Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
To ensure your Italian sausage white bean soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Sausage: Choosing high-quality Italian sausage can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Allowing the sausage and bacon to brown thoroughly adds depth and richness to the overall taste.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving; don’t hesitate to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- Add Vegetables Early: For optimal flavor, add harder vegetables like carrots early in cooking so they soften nicely.
- Customize Texture: Use an immersion blender for a smooth texture or mash some beans for a chunkier consistency based on your liking.
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better after sitting overnight. Consider making it ahead for improved flavors!
Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
Pairing side dishes with Italian sausage white bean soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter makes for an irresistible pairing that complements the soup’s flavors.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and croutons provides crunch and tanginess alongside the hearty soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Cheesy Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread studded with cheese offers sweetness and texture that balances the savory notes of the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices create a filling side that mirrors the flavors found in your soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a delicious side that everyone loves.
- Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil on toasted bread, bruschetta brings fresh flavors that pair well with this hearty dish.
- Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables creates an inviting appetizer before enjoying your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian sausage white bean soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Overcooking the meat: Cooking the sausage and bacon too long can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Not seasoning enough: A bland soup is disappointing. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Ignoring bean texture: Pureeing all the beans can make the soup too thick. Leave some whole for a delightful texture contrast.
- Skipping fresh ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables will diminish flavor. Always choose fresh spinach and carrots for the best results.
- Rushing the simmering process: Simmering allows flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t skip this step; let it simmer gently for at least 15-20 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered, until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Italian sausage white bean soup.
How do I make Italian Sausage White Bean Soup vegetarian?
You can substitute Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I use other types of beans?
Yes! While cannellini beans work best, you can experiment with navy beans or great northern beans for a different flavor profile.
What should I serve with Italian Sausage White Bean Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
How can I customize my Italian Sausage White Bean Soup?
Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
Italian sausage white bean soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry. This cozy dish is perfect for any occasion, so give it a try today!
Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family. This flavorful soup features savory Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and tender cannellini beans, all simmered together for a rich taste that warms the soul. With fresh spinach added for a pop of color and nutrients, this soup is not only filling but also easy to prepare in under an hour. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, it’s sure to impress! Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 4 strips bacon
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 (14-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 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 chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crispy.
- Remove the meats, leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot. Add chopped onion; sauté for 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add cannellini beans, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and rosemary; scrape any browned bits from the pot.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender, leaving some beans whole for texture.
- Return the meats to the pot along with carrots; bring to a boil then simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in fresh spinach until wilted; season with salt and pepper before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
