Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup

Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup

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When it comes to soul-warming comfort food with a kick, this Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup delivers everything you need. Bursting with bold Italian flavors, tender cannellini beans, hearty sausage, and leafy greens, this one-pot wonder is both rustic and satisfying. The rich tomato base paired with aromatic herbs makes it a cozy choice for chilly evenings or when you need a quick yet flavorful dinner.

Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this soup comes together easily without sacrificing taste. It’s protein-packed and naturally gluten-free, making it a feel-good option for the whole family. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so go ahead and make a double batch—you’ll thank yourself later.


What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

For the best flavor, opt for spicy Italian sausage in bulk form (uncased), as it integrates seamlessly into the soup. If you prefer a milder version, sweet or mild Italian sausage works just as well. Turkey or chicken sausage can be used for a lighter option, but the traditional pork sausage really brings that rich, meaty depth this soup is known for.


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Ingredients for the Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup

Spicy Italian Sausage: The star of the show, adding a hearty, spicy kick and rich umami base.

Cannellini Beans: Creamy and mild, these white beans balance the spice and provide a filling, protein-rich bite.

Carrots and Celery: These aromatics build the base flavor and bring in natural sweetness.

Garlic and Onion: Essential for depth and savory aroma—they tie everything together.

Crushed Tomatoes: They give body to the broth and a touch of acidity that balances the sausage’s richness.

Chicken Broth: Forms the savory soup base and enhances the overall flavor.

Kale or Spinach: Adds a touch of color and freshness. Kale offers more bite; spinach wilts softly.

Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, or Parsley): These herbs brighten the dish and add an Italian touch.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like an extra layer of heat.

Olive Oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and bring a rich mouthfeel.

Salt and Pepper: To season and balance all the flavors.


How To Make the Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and the spicy Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it browns. Cook until fully browned and slightly crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté diced onion, carrots, and celery until softened—about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the sausage. Add the cooked sausage back in, along with drained cannellini beans, chopped herbs (like thyme or rosemary), and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like it extra spicy.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This melds all the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Greens

Stir in chopped kale or spinach and let it wilt in the hot broth for about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.


How to Serve and Store Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup

This soup is best served piping hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese. Pair it with thick slices of crusty bread, garlic knots, or even a cheesy grilled sandwich for a cozy, hearty meal. Want to elevate it even more? A drizzle of good olive oil or a splash of balsamic vinegar adds a beautiful finishing touch.

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Absolutely. Canned cannellini beans are perfect for convenience. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the soup.

What if I don’t like kale?

You can swap kale for spinach, Swiss chard, or even collard greens. Each adds a different texture, so go with what you love.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Use plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and double up on the beans and vegetables. Swap in vegetable broth for chicken broth.

Is it too spicy for kids?

If you’re cooking for little ones, opt for mild Italian sausage and skip the red pepper flakes. You can always add spice later for adult portions.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened. Microwave works well too, just stir halfway through.

Can I add pasta?

Definitely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni work great. Cook separately and stir into bowls just before serving to prevent sogginess.


Want More Soup and Stew Ideas?

If you’re loving the warmth and heartiness of this Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup, here are a few more cozy creations you’ll want to try next:

These recipes bring their own unique charm and flavors but share that same soul-soothing satisfaction.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready for your next cozy night in: Life with Nina Pinterest Recipes.

Tried this soup? Tell me how it turned out in the comments! Did you go bold with extra spice or keep it classic? Add pasta or extra veggies?

I love hearing how you make these dishes your own—questions, tips, and twists are always welcome. Let’s cook, share, and savor together.


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Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup

Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup

  • Author: Nina Johnson
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

A cozy, flavor-packed one-pot soup made with spicy Italian sausage, creamy cannellini beans, tender vegetables, and hearty greens. Perfect for chilly nights or meal prep, this satisfying dish is easy to make, naturally gluten-free, and great for freezing.


Ingredients

Scale

1 pound spicy Italian sausage, uncased

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small yellow onion, diced

2 carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups chicken broth

1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes

2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

2 cups kale or spinach, chopped

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme

1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Parmesan cheese and parsley for garnish (optional)


Instructions

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Once fully cooked and slightly crispy, remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside.

2. In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

3. Pour in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Deglaze the pot by scraping up any browned bits. Return sausage to the pot.

4. Add cannellini beans, fresh herbs, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes.

5. Stir in chopped kale or spinach and let it wilt for about 5 minutes.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, garnish if desired, and serve hot.


Notes

Brown the sausage well to create flavorful fond at the bottom of the pot—this deepens the broth’s richness.

For a thicker soup, mash a few beans with a spoon before adding greens.

Freeze in individual portions for quick, satisfying meals later.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: spicy sausage soup, cannellini bean soup, winter soup, comfort food

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