Name: Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage that's Comfort in a Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage (choose mild or spicy for flavor); 2 tbsp olive oil (adds rich texture to the base); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 small onion (finely chopped); 3 cups chicken broth (provides a savory base); ½ cup puréed tomatoes (adds depth); 3 ounces tomato paste (intensifies flavor); 3 cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed); ¾ cup heavy cream (brings creaminess); 1.5 ounces grated Parmesan (for flavor elevation); 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish); 8 tbsp red pesto (gourmet touch); 1 tsp salt (to season); 1 tsp black pepper (for a hint of spice); 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp fennel seeds; ½ tsp chili flakes (use more for serving if desired)

As the chilly evenings settle in, I find myself craving something hearty and comforting. This Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage is my go-to remedy for those days when I need the warmth of a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I can still remember the first time I whipped this up; my friends were blown away by the rich layers of flavor that mingled beautifully in each bowl.

What makes this dish truly special is its perfect balance of spicy Italian sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and a velvety broth that begs to be soaked up with crusty bread. In just 15 minutes, you transform simple pantry staples into a comforting masterpiece that feels as good as a warm hug on a cold night.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal, this stew impresses every time. So, round up your ingredients and let’s dive into this soul-satisfying recipe!

Why is this Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage so special?

Quick to make: You’ll have this heartwarming stew ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Amazing flavors: The combination of spicy Italian sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and aromatic herbs elevates your typical soup into a flavor-packed dish.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will delight everyone at the table.
Versatile options: Feel free to customize with your favorite greens or spices to suit your taste.
Comforting goodness: This stew hits all the right notes, making each bite a delicious experience. Don’t forget to serve it with crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal!

Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage Ingredients

• Prepare to savor a delightful warming meal!

For the Soup
• 1 pound Italian sausage – choose mild or spicy for a flavor that suits your palate.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – this adds a rich, smooth texture to the base.
• 2 garlic cloves – minced, to infuse a wonderful aroma throughout the dish.
• 1 small onion – finely chopped, enhancing the soup with sweetness.
• 3 cups chicken broth – provides a savory, comforting base for your creamy bean soup.
• ½ cup puréed tomatoes – adds depth and a touch of acidity to balance the dish.
• 3 ounces tomato paste – intensifies the tomato flavor for a hearty stew.
• 3 cans (360 g/13 oz) cannellini beans – drained and rinsed, for creamy texture and protein.
• ¾ cup heavy cream – brings a luscious creaminess that ties everything together beautifully.
• 1.5 ounces grated Parmesan – elevates the flavors with a salty, nutty finish.
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley – freshens up the bowl right before serving.
• 8 tbsp red pesto – this adds a gourmet touch with rich flavor on top.
• 1 tsp salt – to season the stew and bring all the flavors to life.
• 1 tsp black pepper – for a hint of spice that’s perfectly balanced.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – enhances the earthy notes in the stew.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – brings a classic Italian essence to your creamy bean soup.
• ½ tsp fennel seeds – these contribute a subtle sweetness and aromatic lift.
• ½ tsp chili flakes – use more for serving if you crave a bit of heat!

Get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness with this Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage that’s sure to warm your heart!

How to Make Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage

Prep the Ingredients: Mince the garlic, finely chop the onion, and remove the casings from the Italian sausage. Don’t forget to drain and rinse the cannellini beans for the perfect texture!
Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pot, cooking until fragrant, about 3 minutes. Enjoy the delicious aromas wafting through your kitchen!

Incorporate Spices: Stir in dried thyme, oregano, fennel seeds, and chili flakes, cooking for 1 minute more to bloom those beautiful flavors.
Combine Soupy Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the puréed tomatoes and tomato paste. Bring this hearty mixture to a boil, then gently fold in the cannellini beans.
Simmer the Stew: Lower the heat, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until all the ingredients meld beautifully together.

Add Creaminess: Once the stew is bubbling and aromatic, pour in the heavy cream and stir until it’s thoroughly combined for that deliciously rich texture.
Finish with Cheese: Turn off the heat, and gently stir in the grated Parmesan. Finish with a sprinkle of black pepper and fresh parsley, adjusting salt to taste.
Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the creamy bean soup into bowls, serve with crusty bread, and top each bowl with a dollop of red pesto and a few extra chili flakes for added zest!

Optional: Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a delightful pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage

Fridge: Store leftover creamy bean soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Avoid Refreezing: It’s best not to refreeze the creamy bean soup after it’s been thawed, as this can change the texture of the beans and cream.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the garlic and onion, and drain and rinse the beans up to 3 days ahead to make your cooking process smoother. For added convenience, you can even cook the sausage and combine it with the spices ahead of time, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your comforting stew, simply heat the sausage mixture with broth, tomatoes, and beans for about 15 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan just before serving. This makes your busy weeknight dinner not only easier but just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

Expert Tips for Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage

Choose Your Sausage: Opt for your favorite Italian sausage, whether mild or spicy, to ensure the flavor complements the creamy bean soup perfectly.
Perfectly Cooked Beans: Always drain and rinse the cannellini beans to remove excess sodium and improve texture; this makes a noticeable difference in every bowl.
Sauté Aromatics Well: Don’t rush the process! Sautéing the garlic and onions until fragrant releases their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your stew.

Simmer for Flavor: Letting the soup simmer for at least 15 minutes allows all the spices and ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste.
Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to modify the amount of heavy cream according to your preference; a little less will maintain a lovely, light soup vibe.
Garnish Generously: Adding fresh parsley and red pesto as toppings not only adds flavor but also elevates presentation, making your creamy bean soup visually appealing!

What to Serve with Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage?

Looking to create the perfect spread to complement your hearty stew?

Crusty Bread: A classic pairing that’s essential for soaking up every creamy, savory drop.
Fresh Green Salad: Bright greens with a tangy vinaigrette add crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the soup.

Garlic Bread: Buttery and aromatic, this indulgent side amplifies the cozy, homey vibe of your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection enhance flavor and introduce lovely caramelized notes to your dinner.
Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a luxurious base that complements the stew’s texture and flavors beautifully.

Apple Crisp: This warm, spiced dessert rounds out the meal with a sweet contrast, evoking homey comfort after your savory bowl.

Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, these sides will elevate your experience!

Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage Variations

Feel free to make this delicious dish your own by exploring a few exciting twists and substitutions!

Vegetarian Version: Swap the Italian sausage for sautéed mushrooms and textured vegetable protein for a hearty, plant-based alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking for a fiery flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy beans.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or thyme right before serving for a vibrant burst of freshness that brightens the stew.

Low-Fat Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a lower-fat cream alternative for a lighter yet still indulgent version of this comforting soup.
Bean Variety: Experiment with different beans like great northern or navy beans — each brings its own unique flavor and texture, making the soup your signature dish.

For something truly heartwarming, try adding some greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking. Not only do they add nutrition, but they also give a beautiful color contrast!

Nutty Flavor: Stir in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds just before serving for added crunch and a delightful nutty taste.
Flavorful Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan-friendly option that still maintains rich flavors — a perfect choice for your next gathering!

Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe FAQs

What type of Italian sausage should I use?
Absolutely! You can choose either mild or spicy Italian sausage, depending on your heat preference. For a richer flavor, I often opt for spicy sausage, but mild works wonderfully too, especially if you’re catering to a broader audience.

How should I store leftover creamy bean soup?
Very! To store leftover soup, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to keep all those lovely flavors locked in.

Can I freeze creamy bean soup?
You can indeed! For freezing, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Don’t worry! If your creamy bean soup turns out thicker than you like upon reheating, just add a splash of chicken broth or water and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. This simple adjustment keeps it deliciously creamy without losing flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This recipe contains dairy (heavy cream and Parmesan) and gluten (from store-bought red pesto or bread for serving). If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, consider swapping out the cream for a non-dairy alternative, and ensure your pesto is gluten-free. Always check for allergies when serving to others!