White Bean Soup And Sausage
A hearty and flavorful white bean soup with sausage, ham, and vegetables, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for those who enjoy savory, protein-rich dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage in olive oil over medium heat.
- Remove the sausage, let it cool, then slice it.
- Add ham, diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pan.
- Cook and brown the vegetables for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Mash one can of beans with a fork.
- Add the remaining beans, the mashed beans, chicken broth, and sliced sausage to the pan.
- Cover and simmer the soup for 20 minutes.
- Let the soup rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of sweet and spicy Italian sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the flavor profile. You can also add a splash of white wine for acidity, which complements the beans well. This soup can be made in a slow cooker for a 'Healthy Crockpot Soup' option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the white bean soup with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream can add creaminess and depth. This dish also pairs well with a light white wine, making it a comforting option for a dinner gathering. For more great ideas, check out other American recipes that utilize beans.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover white bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just ensure to leave space in the container for expansion.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Bean Soup And Sausage contains roughly 2885 calories, with 80g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 256g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (159% of the Daily Value), potassium (96% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1986mg per serving (86% 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried Great Northern beans. Soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. Make sure to adjust the amount of chicken broth accordingly, as dried beans will absorb more liquid.
What can I add to make the soup spicier?
To give your soup a kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild for a more robust flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just prepare it in advance, allow it to cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving for the best taste.
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).