Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s quick to whip up, then this Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage is just what you need. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The rich blend of creamy beans and savory sausage makes each spoonful a delight. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade soup without spending hours in the kitchen!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines simple ingredients to create something truly extraordinary. The addition of red pesto and Parmesan elevates the flavors, making this soup feel indulgent while still being easy enough for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delightful flavors, even the pickiest eaters will love this soup!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and reheat it later, saving time for your busy schedule.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of sausage, beans, and spices creates a deliciously hearty dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Perfect Pairing: Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you need to make this mouthwatering soup.

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, no casings)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 small onion
• 3 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup puréed tomatoes
• 3 ounces tomato paste

For the Creaminess

• 3 cans (360 g/13 oz) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1.5 ounces grated Parmesan

For Seasoning and Garnish

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 8 tbsp red pesto (for serving)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp fennel seeds
• ½ tsp chili flakes (more for serving)

Variations

This Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead; add more beans or legumes to keep it hearty.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more chili flakes or even some diced jalapeños to kick things up a notch!

How to Make Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Get Ready!

Before diving into cooking, let’s get everything prepped. Mince the garlic and finely chop the onion. Remember to remove the casings from your sausage—this ensures it crumbles nicely as it cooks. Drain and rinse your cannellini beans; this helps reduce sodium content and improves flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sausage. Break it into small pieces using a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink—about 5 minutes. Adding garlic and onion at this stage allows their aromas to fill your kitchen; sauté them together until fragrant, about 3 minutes more. Stirring in the spices now brings out their flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Build the Base

Pour in your chicken broth along with puréed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring everything to a boil before adding those lovely cannellini beans. Once added, stir well, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This step lets all those flavors meld together perfectly!

Step 4: Make It Creamy

When your soup has simmered away happily, pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently until combined; this is where we achieve that ultra-creamy texture! Turn off the heat and mix in grated Parmesan cheese—this adds richness and depth to your delicious creation. Taste test your masterpiece; adjust salt if needed.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Ladle your warm soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread on the side! Top each bowl with dollops of red pesto and sprinkle extra chili flakes if desired. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage

Cooking is a journey, and with a few tips, your creamy bean soup can become even more delightful!

• Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh parsley or basil right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a lovely aroma to your soup.
• Choose your sausage wisely: Opting for high-quality Italian sausage can significantly enhance the soup’s flavor profile. The spices in the sausage will infuse the broth beautifully.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a thicker soup, decrease the amount of broth slightly or blend part of the beans before adding them back to the pot. This adds depth while keeping it creamy!
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to play around with additional spices like smoked paprika or bay leaves to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better after sitting for a while, so consider making it a day in advance. Just reheat gently before serving!

How to Serve Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage

Serving your creamy bean soup is almost as enjoyable as making it! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can create a lovely presentation that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Sprinkle some finely chopped chives on top for a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
• Croutons: Add crunchy homemade croutons to each bowl for texture contrast—just toast some bread cubes in olive oil until golden!
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness and provides an elegant finish.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of freshly baked crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Consider sourdough or ciabatta for added flavor.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini make a colorful and nutritious side that complements the meal beautifully.
• Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are always a hit! They’re great for soaking up every last drop of that delicious soup.

Enjoy crafting your meal around this comforting creamy bean soup! It’s not just about filling your belly; it’s about creating moments to savor at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy bean soup with sausage is not only a delight to enjoy fresh, but it’s also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for later, saving you time during busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, separate portions into individual containers for easy access.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion when freezing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious creamy bean soup with sausage!

Can I use other types of beans in the creamy bean soup with sausage?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans provide a lovely creaminess, you can substitute them with navy beans or great northern beans. Just ensure they’re drained and rinsed!

How long does creamy bean soup with sausage last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this creamy bean soup with sausage will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy it as a quick lunch or dinner option!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

Final Thoughts

Creating this creamy bean soup with sausage is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about filling your home with warmth and comfort. The rich flavors combined with the ease of preparation make it a perfect dish for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try—happy cooking!