Name: Bean and Sausage Soup
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 47 min
Ingredients: 1 cup sliced carrots; 1 cup chopped sweet onion; 2 medium garlic cloves, minced; 7 ounces turkey kielbasa, halved lengthwise and cut into ½ inch pieces; 4 cups fat free, low sodium chicken broth; ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ½ teaspoon sea salt; Two 15.8-ounce cans Great Northern Beans, drained and rinsed; One 6-ounce bag baby spinach leaves

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The Bean and Sausage Soup is one of those heartwarming dishes that instantly takes me back to my childhood. I can vividly remember the chilly winter evenings when my mom would whip up this delicious soup, filling the kitchen with its aromatic scent. As the temperatures dropped, we would gather around the table, bowls in hand, eagerly anticipating the first warm spoonful. Each bite was a comforting embrace, a reminder that good food makes everything better. This recipe offers a simple way to recreate that same cozy feeling in your own home, bringing family and friends together over a hearty bowl of goodness.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
47 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
22 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
290 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Skillet, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Blender, Frying Pan, Food Processor, Wooden Spoon

Why This Bean and Sausage Soup Hits Different

It’s Comfort in a Bowl

The Bean and Sausage Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With every spoonful, you’re diving into a medley of flavors that warms you from the inside out. The combination of tender beans and savory sausage creates a symphony of texture and taste that’s hard to resist.

Nutritious and Filling

This soup is packed with wholesome ingredients. Loaded with fiber-rich beans and fresh vegetables, it’s not only delicious but also nutritious. The addition of spinach adds a fresh note, making every bowl not just comforting but also healthful.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for something that keeps well in the fridge, this is it! The flavors deepen as the soup sits, making it even better the next day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

Easy to Customize

One of the best things about the Bean and Sausage Soup is its versatility. You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Swap out the sausage for a vegetarian option or add in your favorite vegetables to make it your own!

Great for Gatherings

This dish is wonderful for gatherings. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night with friends, it brings everyone together. Plus, it’s always a hit; I’ve never met someone who didn’t enjoy a good bowl of soup!

Budget-Friendly

Lastly, it’s a budget-friendly option. With affordable ingredients, you can whip up a large pot without breaking the bank. It’s a win-win when you can feed a crowd without spending too much!

Main Ingredients for Bean and Sausage Soup

The magic of the Bean and Sausage Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component adds its own unique touch to the overall dish, creating a delightful harmony. The star players here are the beans, which provide protein and fiber, and the sausage, which adds that savory depth. Together with fresh vegetables, they create a hearty meal that’s perfect for winter nights.

1 cup sliced carrots – These sweet and crunchy vegetables add a nice texture and sweetness to the soup.
1 cup chopped sweet onion – The onions provide a base flavor, giving the soup a savory depth that’s hard to beat.
2 medium garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor and aroma.
7 ounces turkey kielbasa, halved lengthwise and cut into ½ inch pieces – The sausage brings a robust, smoky flavor to the mix.
4 cups fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth – A healthy base for the soup, enhancing the flavors without excessive salt.
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – This blend of herbs gives the soup a fragrant aroma and a hint of Italy.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a nice kick to the flavor profile.
½ teaspoon sea salt – Essential for balancing flavors.
Two 15.8-ounce cans Great Northern Beans, drained and rinsed – These creamy beans are the heart of the soup, providing protein and fiber.
One 6-ounce bag baby spinach leaves – A fresh addition that wilts beautifully and adds nutrients.

How to Assemble Bean and Sausage Soup

Let’s dive into the comforting process of making Bean and Sausage Soup. This recipe is straightforward and rewarding, perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. As the flavors meld together, you’ll be captivated by the aroma filling your kitchen.

Start by spraying a large saucepan with nonstick spray and set it over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the carrots, onion, and garlic. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. You’ll notice the onions becoming translucent, which is a cue that they’re starting to develop their sweetness.
Add the kielbasa to the pan and sauté for an additional 3 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the sausage browns evenly. You want to see some caramelization here, as this will enhance the flavor of the soup.
Reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 5 minutes. This allows the sausage to infuse its smoky flavor into the vegetables. You should see a bit of browning on the bottom of the pan, which is a good sign!
Next, add the broth, Italian seasoning, black pepper, sea salt, and the drained beans. Give everything a good stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. You’ll see the soup start to bubble, releasing wonderful aromas.
For a creamy texture, place 2 cups of the soup into a food processor or blender. Be careful, as it will be hot! Let it cool for a few minutes before blending until smooth. This step is key to achieving a rich, satisfying consistency.
Once blended, return the pureed mixture back to the saucepan. Stir to incorporate it with the remaining soup. This will give you a lovely, silky texture.
Now, let the soup simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully. Pay attention to how the colors of the soup deepen and become more vibrant.
Finally, remove the soup from heat and mix in the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and turns a bright green. This adds a lovely freshness right at the end!
Serve your Bean and Sausage Soup hot, garnished with some extra herbs if you like. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Things Worth Knowing

Cook the Vegetables First: Always sauté your base vegetables like onion and carrots first. This softens them and releases their flavors.
Use Low-Sodium Broth: Opting for low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the saltiness of your dish better.
Don’t Skip the Blending: Blending part of the soup gives it a creamy texture without adding heavy creams, making it lighter.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh spinach instead of frozen makes a significant difference in taste and texture.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasoning to your preference!

Variations to Try

Looking to switch things up with your Bean and Sausage Soup? Here are some variations to consider. Each tip will add a new twist while maintaining the comfort you crave.

Change the Beans: You can use black beans or pinto beans instead of Great Northern beans for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the kielbasa with a plant-based sausage to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the soup a bit of heat.
Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful twist.
Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil to enhance the flavor.
Creamy Version: For those who enjoy a richer taste, add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Top with Croutons: For added crunch, sprinkle some homemade croutons on top just before serving.

What Complements This Bean and Sausage Soup

When serving the Bean and Sausage Soup, there are delicious sides and accompaniments that can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all that wonderful flavor.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the soup.
Cheese Plate: Serve a cheese platter on the side with a variety of cheeses for guests to nibble on.
Seasonal Fruits: A bowl of seasonal fruits can offer a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
Occasions: This soup is perfect for chilly winter nights, family gatherings, or as a cozy weeknight dinner.
Storage for Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep.
Freezing: This soup also freezes well, so you can make a large batch and enjoy it later!

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat when you’re ready to serve. If you want to make a larger batch, it also freezes well, so it’s great for meal prepping!

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, a fresh green salad, or even a cheese platter for a more indulgent meal. For special occasions, consider serving it alongside seasonal fruits or a charcuterie board. It’s versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings.

Yes, the Bean and Sausage Soup can be a healthy option! It’s packed with protein and fiber from the beans and vegetables, and you can control the sodium by using low-sodium broth. Additionally, you can customize it by adding more fresh veggies or using turkey sausage, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Absolutely! You can easily make this soup vegetarian by substituting the sausage with a plant-based option. There are many great-tasting vegetarian sausages available that mimic the flavor of traditional sausage. Just ensure that you still include plenty of beans and vegetables to keep it hearty and filling!

Conclusion

The Bean and Sausage Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and nourishes the soul. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, and its adaptability makes it a favorite in many kitchens. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s not just a meal, it’s an experience!