This hearty and comforting sausage stew combines smoky sausage, tender vegetables, and flavorful seasonings for a delicious meal that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s an easy one-pot dish that delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients

For the Stew:

1 pound smoked sausage, sliced (see note)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thin
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
4 cups beef broth
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced small
1 (14 oz) can white (cannellini) beans, drained
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté the Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, melt butter. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 8–10 minutes, or until the onions start to lightly brown and soften.

3. Add Seasonings:
Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to release their aromas.

4. Build the Stew:
Pour in the beef broth and add the red bell pepper, diced potatoes, and drained beans. Return the sausage to the pot. Increase heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer and Thicken:
Reduce to a rapid simmer and cook, covered (with the lid slightly ajar), for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the potatoes are tender and starting to break down, the carrots have softened, and the flavors meld together. If the stew gets too thick, add more broth or water, 1/2 cup at a time, to reach your desired consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Satisfying: Perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep.
Versatile Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce for a budget-friendly dish.
One-Pot Convenience: Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.

Tips

Choosing Sausage: Opt for smoked sausage for a deep, savory flavor. Turkey or chicken sausage also works well.
Vegetable Prep: Dice the potatoes small for faster cooking and a creamy texture.
Flavor Boost: Deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine after sautéing the sausage for extra depth.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with plant-based alternatives or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a kick of heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze this stew?
A: Yes! Allow the stew to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Q: Can I use canned potatoes?
A: Fresh potatoes are best, but canned potatoes can be a time-saving alternative. Add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the flavorful broth.
Pair with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle freshly grated parmesan on top for a creamy finish.

This Sausage Stew Recipe delivers bold flavors and wholesome ingredients in every spoonful. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for busy days ahead!