Warm your soul with the Creamy White Bean & Sausage Soup, a rich and hearty bowl of comfort that combines the robust flavors of sausage with the creaminess of white beans. This soup is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create a deeply satisfying meal. Infused with herbs and simmered to perfection, each spoonful offers a creamy texture and a symphony of flavors that promise to delight your taste buds. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a touch of homemade warmth.
Preparation Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed and crumbled
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), rinsed and drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, thyme, and rosemary, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the white beans and cooked sausage. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes, until the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve the soup garnished with chopped parsley.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For a slightly thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- The soup can be made lighter by using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- For added depth, a splash of white wine can be added along with the chicken broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, including chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool it completely and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a little broth or water if needed.
Let the Creamy White Bean & Sausage Soup envelop you in its comforting embrace, a bowl filled with warmth, flavor, and heartiness. Whether it's a meal to share with loved ones on a cold night or a simple pleasure to enjoy solo, this soup is a reminder of the joys of home-cooked comfort. Here’s to savoring each spoonful and the cozy contentment it brings.