Cozy Italian Sausage White Bean Soup

Dive into the heartwarming embrace of Italian Sausage White Bean Soup, a dish that promises not only to satisfy your hunger but also to transport you to the rustic countryside of Italy with every spoonful. This recipe, loaded with the savory goodness of Italian sausage and the creamy texture of cannellini beans, paired with fresh spinach and a hint of bacon, is simplicity and comfort in a bowl. Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a comforting meal, this soup is a testament to the beauty of using pantry staples to create a dish that’s both easy to make and delightful to the palate.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Embarking on the journey to create this Italian Sausage White Bean Soup requires minimal preparation and a few essential kitchen tools. Begin by gathering your ingredients, ensuring you have everything on hand to avoid any interruptions during the cooking process. The key to this recipe’s success lies in its simplicity and the use of quality ingredients.

For this culinary adventure, you’ll need a reliable 5.5-quart Dutch oven, perfect for simmering soups and stews to perfection. A pair of kitchen shears will make cutting the turkey bacon a breeze, while a garlic press will save you time and effort when mincing garlic. Lastly, an immersion blender is indispensable for achieving the desired soup texture, allowing you to puree the beans directly in the pot to thicken the broth without sacrificing the beans’ integrity.

While gathering your ingredients for this soup, consider planning your next meal with our Justine Kameron Breakfast Recipes, ensuring your mornings are as delicious as your dinners.

Ingredients List

• Italian sausage (1 pound): Adds a robust flavor base.
• Turkey Bacon (4 strips): Infuses the soup with a smoky depth.
• Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Offers a sweet undertone.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Elevates the dish with aromatic warmth.
• White beans (cannellini, 4 [14 ounce] cans, drained): The creamy heart of the soup.
• Chicken broth (4 cups): Forms the savory foundation.
• Italian seasoning (1/4 teaspoon): Brings a harmonious blend of herbs.
• Dried rosemary (1/4 teaspoon): Introduces a piney, peppery note.
• Carrots (2 small, peeled & chopped small): Adds sweetness and texture.
• Fresh baby spinach (2 cups, packed): Brings color and nutrition.
• Salt & pepper to taste: For seasoning.

If you’re in the mood for more Italian flavors, our Italian Ricotta Cookies make a classic dessert for any occasion, perfectly complementing the savory notes of this soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, combine the sausage meat and turkey bacon. Cook over medium-high heat until crispy and the fat has rendered.
2. Transfer the sausage and turkey bacon to a plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot. Sauté the onion until softened, then stir in the garlic for 30 seconds.
3. Add the beans, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and rosemary. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup, leaving some beans whole for texture.
5. Return the sausage and turkey bacon to the pot, add the chopped carrots, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the carrots are tender.
6. Stir in the spinach, letting it wilt. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Looking for more cozy soup ideas? Dive into our Easy Chicken Taco Soup for a simple yet flavorful meal that’s sure to please.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

This Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is not only a feast for the senses but also a nutritional powerhouse. The cannellini beans are a fantastic source of fiber and protein, supporting digestive health and providing a feeling of fullness. The addition of spinach adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and immune function.

The Italian sausage and turkey bacon contribute to the soup’s high protein content, making it a satisfying meal that can help with muscle maintenance and repair. However, for those watching their intake of saturated fats, choosing leaner cuts of meat or reducing the amount used can make this dish even healthier.

With approximately 715 calories per serving, this soup is a hearty meal that can fit into a balanced diet. Its high fiber content, coming from the beans and vegetables, can help in regulating blood sugar levels and promoting heart health. Remember, moderation is key, and pairing this soup with a light salad can make for a well-rounded meal.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Creating the perfect Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is within reach if you sidestep a few common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the Sausage and Turkey Bacon: Aim for a golden brown, not charred. Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste that overshadows the soup’s flavors.
• Not Sautéing the Vegetables: Sautéing the onion and garlic until they’re soft ensures they meld seamlessly into the soup, enhancing its overall taste.
• Skipping the Purée Step: Puréeing part of the bean mixture thickens the soup and adds creaminess. Avoid over-blending to maintain some texture.
• Forgetting to Season: Proper seasoning with salt and pepper is crucial. Taste as you go to adjust the seasoning to your preference.

To perfect this recipe, consider these tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this soup means the quality of each ingredient shines through. Opt for high-quality sausage and fresh vegetables.
• Adjust to Taste: Personalize the soup by adjusting the amount of Italian seasoning or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Simmer Gently: Let the soup simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld together without reducing the liquid too much.

For a delightful side dish that pairs perfectly with this soup, explore our Stalekracker Green Bean Casserole Recipe, a unique twist on a classic that will elevate your meal.

Tips, Notes, Storing, and Reheating

• Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a different twist.
• Storing: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, add fresh spinach when reheating rather than before freezing.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen and reheat on the stove over low heat. Add a little broth if the soup has thickened too much upon cooling.

As you enjoy the comforts of this Italian sausage soup, why not explore another warm delight? Ina Garten’s Roasted Tomato Soup is a flavorful option that’s perfect for any season.

FAQs about Italian Sausage White Bean Soup

• Can I make this soup vegetarian?
  Yes, simply omit the sausage and turkey bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Is this soup gluten-free?
  As long as you use gluten-free sausage and broth, this soup can be gluten-free.
• Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
  Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Remember, dried beans expand, so adjust the quantity accordingly.
• Can I use another type of bean if I don’t have cannellini beans?
  Yes, you can use other types of white beans such as Great Northern beans or navy beans as a substitute. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious

   

Conclusion

This Italian Sausage White Bean Soup stands out for its simplicity, heartiness, and versatility. It’s a recipe that welcomes customization and serves as a comforting meal for any day of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this soup is sure to impress with its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Enjoy the process of making it and the delicious results.

Print