Imagine a steaming bowl of rich, flavorful soup that transports you straight to the rustic countryside of Tuscany with just one spoonful! This Tuscan Sausage White Bean Soup is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage, creamy white beans, and a symphony of herbs that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you're craving a comforting dish that's both elegant and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Remove the Italian sausage from its casings and add to the pot, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.
- Cook the sausage until it's browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and slightly softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, drained and rinsed white beans, and the cooked sausage. Stir in dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to slightly thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the soup seems too thick, add a little more chicken broth. If it's too thin, continue simmering to reduce.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. Pair with crusty Italian bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Sausage Selection: Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Spicy or mild, depending on your preference.
- Bean Preparation: Always rinse canned white beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve texture.
- Fat is Flavor: Leave a little sausage fat in the pot when sautéing onions to enhance the overall depth of flavor.
- Simmer Slowly: The key to a great soup is allowing ingredients to meld together, so don't rush the simmering process.
- Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add additional vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan can elevate the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
