Creamy White Bean & Sausage Soup is a hearty, comforting bowl packed with Italian sausage, tender white beans, fresh vegetables, and a rich savory broth. This cozy soup combines creamy texture with nourishing ingredients like kale, carrots, and garlic, creating a balanced meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or make-ahead family dinners.
Key Takeaways
• Hearty one-pot comfort soup
• Creamy texture without heavy cream overload
• Packed with protein and vegetables
• Perfect for cold-weather meals
• Great for leftovers and meal prep
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup delivers restaurant-quality comfort with simple pantry ingredients. The Italian sausage adds deep flavor, while white beans naturally thicken the broth for a velvety consistency. Kale brings freshness and nutrients, making this dish both satisfying and nourishing. It’s beginner-friendly and ideal for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 cups chicken broth
2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Equipment
Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the sausage
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it into crumbles until browned. - Cook the vegetables
Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add seasonings
Stir in oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to build flavor. - Add broth and beans
Pour in chicken broth and add white beans. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. - Create creamy texture
Lightly mash some of the beans with a spoon against the side of the pot to naturally thicken the soup. - Simmer
Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes so flavors blend together. - Add kale and cream
Stir in chopped kale and heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes until kale is tender and soup becomes creamy. - Finish and balance flavor
Add lemon juice to brighten the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. - Serve warm
Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Variations
Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.
Swap kale with spinach for a softer texture.
Blend a small portion of soup for an even creamier consistency.
Add cooked pasta or potatoes for a heartier meal.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. This soup also pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a grilled cheese sandwich for a cozy dinner combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if thickened.
Freeze without cream for up to 2 months, then add cream after reheating.
Nutrition (Approx.)
Calories: 430 per serving
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 7g
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
What beans work best?
Cannellini or great northern beans provide the best creamy texture.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, skip the cream or use a plant-based alternative.
Why mash the beans?
Mashing thickens the soup naturally without needing flour.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze before adding cream for best texture.
Conclusion
Creamy White Bean & Sausage Soup is the definition of cozy comfort food — rich, hearty, and full of nourishing ingredients. With its velvety broth, savory sausage, and fresh greens, this easy one-pot recipe is perfect for warming up any evening while delivering satisfying flavor in every spoonful.