Italian Sausage White Bean Soup Recipe

Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is a flavorful, hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Made with Italian sausage, crispy bacon, white beans, and fresh spinach, this comforting soup is rich in flavor and packed with protein. A savory combination of garlic, onion, and Italian seasonings makes every spoonful delicious. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this simple soup recipe is sure to become a favorite. With ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, this easy-to-make soup is a great option for a filling lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (see note)
• 4 strips bacon
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 (14 oz) cans white beans (cannellini), 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 (packed)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage and Bacon:
   In a large soup pot, add the Italian sausage and bacon (cut into strips using kitchen shears). Cook over medium-high heat until the sausage is browned and crispy, and the bacon has rendered its fat (about 15 minutes). While the sausage and bacon cook, prep the remaining ingredients.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Remove the sausage and bacon from the pot and set them aside on a plate. Leave about 2 tablespoons of fat in the pot for flavor (discard any excess). Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until softened and lightly browned. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Add Beans and Broth:
   Add the drained white beans, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and dried rosemary to the pot. Stir well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
4. Purée the Soup:
   Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup to your desired consistency (I like to leave some beans whole for texture). If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender for a portion of the soup or mash some of the beans with a potato masher or fork for a rustic texture.
5. Cook the Carrots:
   Return the sausage and bacon to the pot, then add the chopped carrots. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot slightly ajar, and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the carrots are tender and the soup has thickened.
6. Finish the Soup:
   Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Sausage White Bean Soup combines hearty, flavorful sausage, crispy bacon, and creamy white beans in a rich broth, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. The addition of fresh spinach and vegetables adds color, nutrients, and freshness. It’s a perfect dish for cold weather, making it an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or a filling weeknight meal.

Tips

• Texture Variations: You can leave the beans fully puréed for a smoother soup or mash them for a chunkier consistency. Adjust to your preference.
• Cooking the Bacon: For extra flavor, cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to the soup. This will give the soup a nice smoky depth.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables, such as celery or bell peppers, for added flavor and texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: If you prefer a leaner option, substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage or ground chicken. For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and bacon, and use vegetable broth.
• Beans: While cannellini beans are the classic choice for this recipe, you can substitute them with other beans such as great northern beans or navy beans.
• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano, or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

FAQs

• Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach works well, but be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.
• Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing, and reheat thoroughly when ready to serve.

Serving

Serve this Italian Sausage White Bean Soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. It’s also excellent with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Suggestions

• Topping Ideas: Garnish the soup with grated Parmesan, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to elevate the flavors.
• Add Pasta: For a heartier soup, add cooked pasta such as small shells or ditalini to the soup just before serving.