Looking for a soup that’s bold, hearty, and full of comforting flavors? This Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup delivers exactly that. With savory Italian sausage, creamy white beans, tender vegetables, and just the right kick of heat, it’s a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for weeknight dinners, cold evenings, or meal prep, this soup is flavorful, flexible, and even freezer-friendly. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, savory, and slightly spicy—perfect for comfort on chilly nights
- Hearty and filling thanks to sausage, beans, and vegetables
- Quick and easy—ready in about 40 minutes
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience
- Adaptable: switch proteins, add pasta or extra vegetables for variation
Ingredients
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon) – For sautéing and adding richness.
- Spicy Italian sausage (1 pound, casings removed) – The main protein and flavor base; use sweet sausage for milder heat.
- Yellow onion (1 medium, chopped) – Adds sweetness and aromatic depth.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Infuses savory flavor.
- Carrots (2 medium, sliced) – Adds natural sweetness and texture.
- Celery (2 stalks, chopped) – Provides subtle earthiness.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon) – Warm, herbaceous notes.
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon) – Adds gentle heat; adjust to taste.
- Chicken broth (4 cups) – Forms a savory, flavorful base.
- Diced tomatoes (15 ounces, with juice) – Adds acidity and depth.
- Cannellini beans (30 ounces, drained and rinsed, about 2 cans) – Creamy, hearty, and protein-packed.
- Fresh spinach or kale (2 cups, optional) – Adds color and nutrition.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
- Optional garnishes: grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
How to Make Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup
Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it into crumbles. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and aromatic.
Build the Soup Base
Stir in oregano and red pepper flakes. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful browned bits from the sausage.
Add Beans and Simmer
Add the cannellini beans and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Finish with Greens
Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use sweet Italian sausage for a milder version if preferred.
- Drain excess grease to keep the soup from being too oily.
- Add pasta, zucchini, or potatoes to make the soup heartier.
- Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Recipe Variations
- Mild Version: Use sweet Italian sausage or chicken sausage instead of spicy.
- Vegetable-Boosted: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes.
- Pasta Addition: Stir in 1–2 cups cooked pasta for a chunkier, more filling soup.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure sausage is gluten-free and skip pasta if adding.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty artisan bread or garlic toast.
- Top with grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil.
- Pair with a green salad for a balanced, hearty meal.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors develop even more when refrigerated for a few hours or overnight.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
Can I use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy?
Absolutely, this makes a milder version suitable for all palates.
Can I add pasta or extra vegetables?
Yes, cooked pasta or vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or bell peppers can be added for a heartier soup.
Is this soup low-carb?
It is relatively low in carbs, but adding pasta will increase carbohydrate content.
Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup brings bold, cozy comfort to your table with hearty white beans, savory sausage, and fresh vegetables simmered to perfection. A flavorful, flexible, and freezer-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes (1 can)
- 30 ounces cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (2 cans)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and break into crumbles. Cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in oregano and red pepper flakes. Pour in broth and diced tomatoes with juice. Scrape bottom of the pot for flavor.
- Add cannellini beans and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered 20-25 minutes.
- Stir in spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of simmering until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan and parsley. Pair with crusty bread or salad.
Notes
- Use sweet Italian sausage or chicken sausage for a milder version.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
- Add pasta, zucchini, or potatoes for a bulkier soup variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Soup is a hearty, bold, and comforting dish that’s perfect for cold nights, busy weeknights, or make-ahead meals. Its savory sausage, creamy beans, tender vegetables, and optional greens create a balanced, satisfying bowl that’s both filling and flavorful. Serve it hot, enjoy the warmth, and make it a new family favorite.
