Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a warm, hearty meal. This one-pot wonder combines tender white beans, savory sausage, and aromatic vegetables, all simmered together to create a creamy, flavorful soup that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a cozy dinner, this soup is versatile, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: Pureed beans create a velvety base without heavy cream.
- Bold and Flavorful: Smoky sausage, garlic, and fresh herbs deliver incredible depth.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
- Nourishing: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Customizable: Add leafy greens, swap the sausage, or spice it up with red pepper flakes.
Ingredients
Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz turkey or chicken sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 (15 oz) cans white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights:
- Turkey or Chicken Sausage: Lean, smoky, and flavorful.
- White Beans: Create the creamy texture when partially pureed.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth.
- Chicken Broth: Forms the flavorful base; low-sodium works best.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1–2 minutes more.
2. Simmer the Soup:
- Add chicken broth, beans, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes to meld flavors.
3. Puree and Finish:
- Remove the bay leaf. Puree about half the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender.
- Stir the browned sausage back into the soup.
- Optional: Stir in heavy cream for extra richness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve warm with crusty bread, a side salad, or in bread bowls for a fun presentation.
Tips & Variations
- Immersion Blender: Makes pureeing easy and keeps cleanup minimal.
- Texture Control: Blend more or less depending on your preferred creaminess.
- Dairy-Free Option: Skip the cream or use coconut milk.
- Add Vegetables: Kale, spinach, or zucchini boost nutrition and color.
- Spicy Version: Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Twist: Replace sausage with mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- Grain Boost: Stir in quinoa, barley, or farro for heartier bowls.
- Lemony Brightness: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving lifts the flavors.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Equipment Needed
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Immersion blender
- Ladle
- Sharp knife and cutting board
FAQ
Can I use dried beans? Yes, soak and cook them beforehand.
Can I prep this soup ahead? Absolutely—flavors deepen after sitting overnight.
Can I skip pureeing? Yes, for a chunkier texture.
How do I reheat? Slowly over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage is a cozy, versatile, and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings. With its creamy texture, smoky sausage, and hearty beans, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Pair with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal!