Baked Bean Winter Soup
A hearty and comforting winter soup combining savory beans, tomatoes, and sausage with aromatic vegetables and a touch of spice, perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except sausage in a soup pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Add the browned and drained sausage to the pot.
- Simmer for another 30 minutes.
- Reheat if prepared a day in advance for enhanced flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using smoked sausage or chorizo instead of regular sausage. You can also substitute the canned tomatoes with fresh tomatoes if they're in season. If you're looking to make it vegetarian, swap out the sausage for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of water. This soup can also benefit from a pinch of garlic powder or a bay leaf during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with a crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. For a more complete dinner, consider pairing it with Hot Ham And Cheese Wrap-Ups or a simple green salad. It also works well as a filling lunch option, especially on a chilly day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. This soup also freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Bean Winter Soup contains roughly 413 calories, with 9g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1568mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the pork and beans with other types of beans like kidney beans or black beans. Just keep in mind that using different beans may alter the flavor slightly, so consider adding more spices to compensate.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can add more Tabasco sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Experimenting with different sausage types, like spicy Italian sausage, can also add a kick to the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).