Warm up your kitchen and your soul with this hearty Italian Sausage Stew with White Beans and Kale! This delightful dish combines savory sausage, tender beans, and vibrant greens in a rich, flavorful broth that's perfect for chilly evenings or cozy family dinners. With just a little prep and 45 minutes of cooking, you can create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a comforting bowl of this delicious stew that will have them asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the Italian sausage from its casing by splitting the casing lengthwise and crumbling the meat into small pieces.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion to the pot with the sausage and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and drained white beans. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the seasonings.
- Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- About 5 minutes before serving, add the chopped kale to the pot and stir, letting it wilt and become tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, adding more salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Tips
- Choose the Right Sausage: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality Italian sausage, whether spicy or sweet, depending on your preference. The sausage is the star of this dish, so pick one that you love!
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the sausage. This step adds depth to the flavor of your stew, creating a delicious base that enhances the entire dish.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh garlic and onion for the best flavor. Fresh herbs, if available, can also elevate the dish—consider adding a sprig of rosemary or some fresh thyme for an aromatic touch.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the white beans against the side of the pot before adding the kale. This will help create a creamier texture.
- Kale Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of kale, feel free to substitute with spinach or Swiss chard. Just remember to add them towards the end of cooking, as they wilt quickly.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving can enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance to your dish.
- Make it Ahead: This stew tastes even better the next day! Make it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just reheat and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
