This Smoked Sausage and White Bean Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. The smoky richness of the sausage pairs beautifully with the creamy white beans and fresh vegetables in a seasoned broth. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans), rinsed and drained
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Hearty: Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a filling meal.
• Packed with Flavor: Smoky sausage, savory herbs, and tender beans create a comforting and robust soup.
• Simple and Quick: Made with pantry staples and ready in just about an hour.
• Versatile: Add extra veggies or swap the sausage for turkey or chicken sausage to customize.

How to Make Smoked Sausage and White Bean Soup

1. Brown the Sausage

• Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Build the Soup Base

• Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), white beans, dried thyme, smoked paprika, bay leaves, and the cooked sausage back into the pot.
• Stir well to combine.

4. Simmer the Soup

• Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
• Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Taste and Adjust

• Remove the bay leaves. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping into the flavorful broth.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad balances the richness of the soup.
• Rice or Quinoa: Add a scoop to make the soup even heartier.

Tips for the Best Smoked Sausage and White Bean Soup

1. Choose Quality Sausage: A good smoked sausage will elevate the soup’s flavor significantly.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme, use about 1 tablespoon for extra flavor.
3. Experiment with Beans: Great northern beans, cannellini beans, or navy beans all work wonderfully.
4. Add Greens: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrients.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.

Final Thoughts

This Smoked Sausage and White Bean Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that’s as flavorful as it is simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this soup will quickly become a favorite.

Let me know how yours turns out and if you add any creative twists—happy cooking! 🍲✨