Ah, creamy bean soup with sausage! Just saying the name warms my heart and ignites my taste buds. When the weather turns chilly, this soup becomes my best friend. I can still remember the first time I made it; I came home from work exhausted, flipped through my pantry, and realized I had all the ingredients on hand. Within an hour, I was in a creamy, hearty heaven, and the aroma filled my whole house!
This soup isn’t just delicious; it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl! The combination of savory sausage, creamy beans, and the aromatic veggies creates a wonderful symphony of flavors. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare. Trust me, you’ll want to make this your go-to comfort food recipe!
What’s in Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage?
Sausage: I love using Italian sausage for its rich flavor, but any sausage you enjoy will work. Just be sure to slice it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Onions, Carrots, and Celery: This trio, also known as mirepoix, forms the aromatic base of the soup. They add depth and sweetness and balance beautifully with the savory sausage.
Vegetable Broth: I prefer low-sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness. Brands like Swanson or Pacific Foods are some of my favorites for their rich taste.
Canned Beans: White kidney beans or navy beans are ideal for this recipe. They’re soft, creamy, and add substance to the soup. Make sure to rinse and drain them for the best flavor.
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! Adding heavy cream gives the soup its luscious, creamy texture. You could also substitute with half-and-half if you’re looking to lighten it up a bit!
Salt, Pepper, and Thyme: Simple seasonings that elevate the entire dish. I love using fresh thyme if I have it; it adds such a wonderful aroma. If you’re a fan of herbaceous flavors, feel free to experiment!
Is Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage Good for You?
This soup is a delightful blend of protein and vegetables, making it not only comforting but also nutritious.
Beans: They are packed with fiber, which is great for your digestive system, and they’re also a good source of plant-based protein. How awesome is that?
Sausage: While it does add flavor and protein, remember to enjoy it in moderation. Choosing leaner sausage can create a balance between indulgence and health.
Vegetables: The onion, carrot, and celery combination brings vitamins and minerals to the table, boosting the overall nutrition.
Overall, while this soup is rich and creamy, it’s also hearty and packed with goodness, so you can savor each spoonful without too much guilt!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb sausage (Italian or your choice)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery sticks, chopped
– 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
– 2 cans white kidney beans or navy beans (15 oz each), rinsed and drained
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt, to taste
– Pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves: 6 hearty bowls*
How to Make Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage?
1. In a large pot, brown the diced sausage over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until nicely browned. Stir it occasionally to make sure it cooks evenly.
2. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the veggies soften and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Once simmering, add in the rinsed and drained beans. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. After simmering, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it heat through but avoid boiling.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. Adjust according to your preference.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Servings Suggestions for Your Hearty Bowl
I always like to serve this soup with crusty bread or a side of garlic bread for that perfect dunking experience. You can also top it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for that extra layer of flavor. If you’re in the mood for a bit of spice, try adding a few red pepper flakes.
Feel free to add other veggies you love or even some spinach for a touch of green! The joy of soup is that it’s so adaptable.
I genuinely hope you give this creamy bean soup with sausage a whirl. It’s bound to fill your kitchen with love and warmth, not to mention it will fill your belly too! Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!
