why make this recipe
Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. It combines savory Italian sausage and crispy bacon with the creamy texture of cannellini beans. This soup is not only filling but also easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from fresh spinach and onion, making it a wholesome choice for the whole family.
how to make Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces Italian sausage
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (optional)
Directions:
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the fresh spinach and cooked bacon back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve warm.
how to serve Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
Serve Italian Sausage White Bean Soup hot in bowls. You can garnish it with some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
how to store Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
To store the soup, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain its creamy consistency.
tips to make Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
- For a spicier soup, choose hot Italian sausage instead of mild.
- You can use any leafy green in place of spinach, like kale or Swiss chard.
- If possible, use homemade broth for richer flavor.
- Don’t skip on the bacon; it adds a wonderful smokiness to the dish.
variation
You can switch up the beans by using navy beans or pinto beans instead of cannellini beans. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and bacon and use vegetable broth.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance. The flavors actually improve as it sits!
Can I use canned spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh spinach has a much better texture and flavor. If you use canned, make sure to drain it well.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free sausage and broth, this soup can be gluten-free. Make sure to check the labels of your ingredients.
Italian Sausage White Bean Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 ounces Italian sausage
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (optional) For cooking the bacon
Method
Preparation
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the fresh spinach and cooked bacon back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve warm.