Bean And Sausage Soup Recipe

Bean and sausage soup is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside. There’s something deeply comforting about the combination of hearty beans, savory sausage, and flavorful vegetables. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a lazy Sunday, this soup is the perfect choice for nourishing your body and soul. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with nutrients.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or make it with whatever you have in your pantry. It’s a one-pot meal that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, making it great for family dinners or gatherings with friends. And the best part? It gets better with time, so leftovers are always a treat.

Now, let’s dive into the recipe and all the flavorful details that come with it!

This hearty soup combines protein-packed beans and rich, flavorful sausage. It’s a great meal for any time of year, but it especially shines in the colder months when you need something that fills you up and warms you through. Here’s everything you need to know to make this comforting dish:

Ingredients Needed

To make this soup, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. But don’t let the simplicity fool you; the combination of these ingredients will create a soup bursting with flavor!

Sausage (2 links, preferably Italian or smoked): Sausage adds the savory depth that gives this soup its signature taste. You can go with mild or spicy, depending on your preference.
Canned beans (2 cans, white beans like cannellini or navy beans): Beans are the heart of this dish, providing both texture and protein. They absorb all the flavors of the sausage and broth, making each spoonful a delight.
Carrots (2 medium-sized, diced): Carrots offer a natural sweetness that balances the savory sausage. They also add a pop of color to the soup.
Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Celery adds a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the sausage.
Onion (1 medium, chopped): Onions are essential for building the flavor base, providing a soft, sweet undertone as they cook.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Garlic is the aromatic element that ties everything together. It adds a little kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups): The broth serves as the base of the soup, providing depth and moisture. You can use a low-sodium version to control the salt level.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Olive oil helps sauté the vegetables and sausage, giving the soup a rich mouthfeel.
Herbs (2 teaspoons dried thyme, 1 bay leaf): Thyme adds earthy warmth, and bay leaf infuses the soup with a subtle complexity.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning, you’ll need salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Cooking Instructions

Making this soup is easy and only requires a few steps. Here’s how to bring it all together:

Cook The Sausage
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces, and add it to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
Sauté The Vegetables
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot.
- Stir in the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add The Beans And Broth
- Pour in the broth, followed by the drained and rinsed beans.
- Stir in the dried thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer The Soup
- Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and for the beans to soak up all that delicious broth.
Taste And Adjust
- Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper as necessary.
Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping!

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating that deep, rich flavor profile that’s so comforting.

Sausage: Whether you use Italian sausage, chorizo, or smoked sausage, the richness and seasoning of the sausage infuses the soup with layers of flavor. The fat from the sausage also helps carry the flavors of the other ingredients.
Beans: Beans provide the heartiness of the soup. They are loaded with fiber and protein, making them not only filling but also great for digestion and overall health.
Carrots and celery: These vegetables, often known as aromatics, create the foundation of flavor. They add sweetness, crunch, and freshness to the dish.
Broth: A good quality broth (either chicken or vegetable) serves as the liquid base of the soup. The broth picks up all the flavors from the sausage and vegetables, creating a deep, rich flavor.

Expert Tips

Want to elevate your bean and sausage soup game? Here are some expert tips:

Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add a more vibrant, aromatic flavor than dried herbs. Toss them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for an extra layer of fragrance.
Sauté the sausage well: Don’t rush the browning of the sausage. The caramelization that happens when it’s cooked slowly adds a lot of depth to the soup.
Blend for a creamy texture: If you like a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks of sausage and beans for texture. This gives the soup a velvety smooth finish.
Add a splash of vinegar: For a little tang and to balance out the richness of the sausage and beans, try adding a teaspoon of white wine vinegar just before serving.
Make it ahead: This soup actually improves in flavor the longer it sits. Make it the day before and let the flavors develop overnight!

Recipe Variations

Feel like switching things up? There are plenty of ways to make this soup your own:

Add greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard make excellent additions to this soup. Stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
Use different beans: While white beans are traditional, you can also experiment with kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and flavor.
Spicy sausage: If you love a little heat, go for a spicy sausage, like chorizo, or add some red pepper flakes to give your soup an extra kick.
Vegan or vegetarian version: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or simply add extra vegetables and a little smoked paprika for a smoky, meaty flavor.

Final Words

Bean and sausage soup is the type of recipe you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again. It’s one of those dishes that’s deeply satisfying, no matter your mood. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, it’s sure to bring smiles and full bellies.

The best part? It’s easily adaptable and can be customized to suit any dietary needs, preferences, or whatever you have on hand. It’s a true comfort food, with just the right balance of flavors, textures, and warmth to get you through any day.

Bean And Sausage Soup Recipe