Sausage Bean Stew
A hearty sausage and bean stew packed with vegetables and tender grains, perfect for comforting family dinners and flavorful gatherings with a smoky, savory profile.
Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth ⓘ
- 3 (16 oz each) cans beans (kidney, butter, pinto and/or black-eyed peas), rinsed and drained ⓘ
- 3 medium carrots, diced ⓘ
- 3 celery ribs, diced ⓘ
- 1 lb smoked sausage, cut into 1/2-inch slices ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 cup pearl barley ⓘ
- 1/2 cup dried lentils ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach ⓘ
Instructions
- In a 4-quart Dutch oven, combine all ingredients except spinach.
- Cover and cook over medium heat for 45 to 60 minutes or until barley and lentils are tender.
- Stir in chopped fresh spinach and heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. If you're short on time, pre-cooked sausage can be used, and any combination of beans works well. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute smoked sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can enhance the stew's aroma.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top can add a creamy touch. Serve alongside a glass of white wine for a delightful dinner. For more comforting options, browse more American recipes that warm the soul.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sausage bean stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it to retain moisture. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Bean Stew contains roughly 885 calories, with 40g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (224% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value), and iron (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1343mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans in this stew?
Yes, you can mix and match beans based on your preference or what you have on hand. Options like chickpeas or cannellini beans can also work well in this recipe, providing different textures and flavors.
Is it possible to make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply combine all the ingredients, except for the spinach, in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the fresh spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
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).