Save Experience the warmth of a rustic Italian kitchen with this hearty Tuscan White Bean Sausage Soup. This comforting dish combines savory Italian sausage with creamy cannellini beans, tender kale, and Yukon Gold potatoes, all simmered together in a fragrant chicken broth infused with aromatic herbs. It is a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that brings wholesome ingredients together in just under an hour.
Save The combination of classic Italian seasonings like oregano, basil, and thyme creates a savory base that perfectly complements the mild heat of the sausage. Whether you are looking for a weeknight dinner or a meal-prep option, this soup delivers robust flavors that only get better the next day.
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
For an extra layer of depth, add a Parmesan rind to the pot while the soup simmers, ensuring you remove it before serving. Remember that leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making this an excellent choice for batch cooking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply use plant-based sausage crumbles and substitute the chicken broth with a high-quality vegetable broth. If you prefer a bit of heat, choose spicy Italian sausage and increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
Serviervorschläge
This rustic soup is best enjoyed with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. Garnish each bowl with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.
Save Savor every spoonful of this Tuscan-inspired soup. It is a true testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care and aromatic herbs, can create a meal that feels like a warm embrace.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, substitute plant-based sausage for Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The result remains hearty and flavorful.
- → What type of sausage works best?
Italian sausage, either mild or spicy depending on your preference. Remove casings before cooking to crumble the meat into the soup for better distribution.
- → Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. Add them in the last 5-10 minutes of simmering to preserve their bright flavor.
- → How long do leftovers keep?
Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetetop.
- → What should I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple green salad complement this hearty soup perfectly. Grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a salty finish.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. The potatoes may become slightly softer after thawing, but the texture remains enjoyable. Cool completely before freezing.