Imagine a soup so rich, creamy, and satisfying that it transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Creamy White Bean Soup with Sausage isn't just another recipe – it's a hearty, soul-warming dish that combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with velvety white beans, creating a symphony of taste that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're looking to chase away the winter chills or simply craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is about to become your new comfort food obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the sausage from the pot using a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot. Add chopped onions to the same pot and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the drained and rinsed white beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the beans to soften and flavors to meld together.
- Using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon, partially mash some of the beans to create a thicker, creamier texture. This will help give the soup a rich, hearty consistency.
- Stir in the cooked sausage, heavy cream, and dried thyme. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and blend the flavors.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if desired. The soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh Italian sausage and high-quality vegetable broth for the best flavor profile.
- Mashing Technique: When partially mashing the beans, leave some whole for texture. This creates a perfect balance between creamy and chunky.
- Fat is Flavor: Don't discard the sausage fat – it adds incredible depth to the soup's overall taste.
- Cream Matters: Add heavy cream at the end and avoid boiling to prevent separation.
- Seasoning Secret: Taste and adjust seasoning gradually. The sausage will already bring some saltiness, so be careful not to over-salt.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of good olive oil can elevate the presentation and add a fresh note to the rich soup.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
