Save Settle into the comfort of a rustic Italian kitchen with this Tuscan White Bean Sausage Soup. This hearty, one-pot meal combines savory Italian sausage with creamy cannellini beans, tender potatoes, and vibrant kale, all simmered together in a rich chicken broth infused with aromatic herbs. It is the kind of soul-warming dish that fills your home with an irresistible aroma and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Save Whether you are looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this soup delivers deep flavors with minimal effort. The combination of slow-cooked vegetables and zesty sausage creates a complex base that makes every spoonful feel special.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage, casings removed (mild or spicy)
- Vegetables: 1 large yellow onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups (about 100 g) chopped kale, stems removed; 2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, diced; 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can diced tomatoes, drained (optional)
- Beans: 2 (15 oz / 425 g each) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- Broth & Liquids: 6 cups (1.5 L) low-sodium chicken broth
- Herbs & Seasonings: 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Finish: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Transfer sausage to a plate, leaving fat in the pot.
- Step 2
- Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Return the sausage to the pot. Add potatoes, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (if using), chicken broth, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Step 4
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Step 5
- Stir in the kale and simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, until the kale is wilted and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, dice your potatoes into uniform cubes so they cook evenly. Sautéing the mirepoix (onion, carrots, and celery) until soft and translucent is key to building a sweet and savory foundation for the broth.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth. If you enjoy extra depth, add a Parmesan rind to the pot while the soup simmers to infuse the liquid with a salty, savory umami flavor (just remember to remove it before serving).
Serviervorschläge
This soup is best served piping hot in large bowls. Top with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve alongside thick, crusty bread to dip into the rich, aromatic broth.
Save With its combination of tender greens, creamy beans, and savory meat, this Tuscan White Bean Sausage Soup is a wholesome meal that celebrates the simplicity of Italian flavors. Enjoy a bowl tonight for a cozy and satisfying dining experience.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute plant-based sausage for the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor profile remains delicious with these simple swaps.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- → Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every teaspoon of dried. Add fresh basil at the very end to preserve its delicate flavor, while oregano and thyme can go in during simmering.
- → What type of sausage works best?
Italian sausage either mild or spicy works beautifully. Remove casings before cooking to crumble the meat into the soup. For less heat, choose mild sausage or use bulk pork sausage with added Italian seasoning.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Note that potatoes may become slightly softer after freezing, but flavor remains excellent. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- → What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment for soaking up the flavorful broth. A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty soup beautifully.