This is one of my favorite Italian soups because it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s comforting, rich, and satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner. Combining savory Italian sausage, creamy white beans, and fragrant herbs makes every spoonful delicious.

It’s been a while since I last made this soup, but now I cook it at least once a week because it’s filling and packed with protein. With its simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it has become one of my go-to recipes. I love that everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

When I make this dish, I like to experiment with different seasonings. Some days I add extra garlic and red pepper flakes for a bit of spice, while other times, I stir in fresh basil or rosemary for a deeper flavor. No matter how I prepare it, the result is always delicious!

If you like comfort food that’s easy to make and full of rich flavors, you need to try this recipe. The result is just Wow! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect cold-weather meal, this soup never disappoints.

I prefer to enjoy it with crusty bread and a fresh green salad. Some extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top make it even better. This recipe is super easy to make, and every bite is packed with goodness.

What Makes This Italian Sausage White Bean Soup Special?

This Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is special because it’s a one-pot meal that is flavorful, nutritious, and incredibly easy to prepare. The sausage gives it a bold taste, the beans add a creamy texture, and the fresh herbs make it taste homemade and delicious.

Perfect For:

• Cold Weather Comfort: This soup is warm, filling, and perfect for cozy nights.
• Meal Prep: It stores well and tastes even better the next day.
• Quick and Easy Dinners: Ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Healthy Eating: Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables, it’s a nutritious option that keeps you full.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 ounces (340g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (for serving)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

How to make Italian Sausage White Bean Soup

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up into crumbles until browned. Remove excess grease if necessary.

Step 2:

Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3:

Pour in chicken broth, white beans, diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4:

Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5:

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Helpful Tips

• The better the sausage, the more flavorful the soup. Try using spicy or mild Italian sausage depending on your preference. If you want a healthier version, opt for turkey or chicken sausage.
• Browning the sausage adds a deep, rich flavor to the broth. Be sure to break it into smaller crumbles to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the soup. Removing excess grease helps keep the soup lighter.
• If you want a thicker soup, mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot. This creates a naturally creamy consistency without adding dairy while still keeping a hearty texture.
• While this soup can be ready in 30 minutes, letting it simmer for a little longer enhances the flavors. The ingredients blend beautifully, and the broth becomes richer.
• If using spinach or kale, stir them in just before serving so they stay bright and fresh. Overcooking the greens can make them mushy and dull in color.
• Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme can make a big difference in enhancing the final flavor. Dried herbs work well too, but fresh herbs add a layer of brightness.

Optional Ingredients

• Tomato Paste – Adds a richer depth of flavor to the broth. A tablespoon stirred in with the garlic creates a more complex base.
• Parmesan Rind – Simmering a parmesan rind in the broth adds extra umami and creaminess. It melts slightly, infusing the soup with a cheesy richness.
• Lemon Juice – A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the sausage.
• Heavy Cream – Stir in a little cream at the end for a silky, creamy texture. If you love creamy soups, this is a great addition.
• Mushrooms – Adds extra heartiness and an earthy flavor. Sauté them with the onions for a deeper flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes – For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. It enhances the sausage’s natural heat.

What to Pair with Italian Sausage White Bean Soup?

One of the best sides to serve with Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is a slice of warm, crusty bread. The bread soaks up the delicious broth, making each bite even better.

A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pair well, balancing the richness of the sausage with a light, refreshing touch.

For a heartier meal, serve this soup with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.

If you love cheesy dishes, try topping the soup with extra parmesan cheese and serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or cheesy garlic bread.

Variations and Substitutions

Spicy Sausage White Bean Soup: Use spicy Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for heat. This gives the soup a bold, fiery flavor.

Creamy White Bean Soup: Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy version. This creates a richer, more indulgent soup.

Vegetarian White Bean Soup: Skip the sausage and add extra beans and vegetables for a meatless version. Mushrooms, carrots, and bell peppers work well in place of meat.

Tomato-Based White Bean Soup: Add tomato paste or extra diced tomatoes for a more tomato-forward flavor. It gives the soup a slight tang and enhances its depth.

Kale and White Bean Soup: Swap spinach for kale for a heartier green that holds up well in the soup. Kale adds a slightly bitter but delicious contrast to the creamy beans.

Slow Cooker Version: Brown the sausage first, then let everything cook in a slow cooker on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. This is perfect for busy days when you want a warm meal waiting for you.

White Bean and Rice Soup: Add cooked rice at the end to make it even more filling. The rice soaks up the broth, making it a satisfying dish.

Lemon Herb White Bean Soup: Add fresh lemon juice and extra basil for a bright, fresh taste. This variation lightens the dish and enhances the flavors.

How to Store

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day. If the soup thickens, simply add a splash of broth when reheating.

For freezing, let the soup cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove over medium heat.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to maintain a rich flavor.

What type of beans work best in this soup?

Cannellini beans are the best choice due to their creamy texture, but you can also use great northern beans or navy beans. If you prefer a firmer bean, chickpeas work well too.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the sausage first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Add the greens at the last 15 minutes.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Simply leave out the parmesan cheese and heavy cream. The soup will still be rich and flavorful thanks to the sausage and beans.

How do I make this soup spicier?

To increase the heat, use hot Italian sausage, add red pepper flakes, or stir in a spoonful of hot sauce before serving.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?

Yes! Use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes instead of canned. You may need to add an extra splash of broth for enough liquid.

How can I thicken the soup?

Mash some of the beans before adding them to the soup, or let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.

Italian Sausage White Bean Soup

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: Main, SoupsCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

40

minutes

This Italian Sausage White Bean Soup is a hearty, comforting, and protein-packed meal that’s perfect for chilly days. The combination of sausage, beans, and fresh greens makes it both nourishing and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 12 ounces (340g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (for serving)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up into crumbles until browned. Remove excess grease if necessary.
• Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
• Pour in chicken broth, white beans, diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes to blend the flavors.
• Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.