Name: Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup diced yellow onion; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 ribs celery, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 pound fully cooked chicken sausage, sliced into rounds; 2 (15 ounce) cans cannellini or great northern beans, rinsed and drained; 1 bay leaf; ½ cup milk (2% or whole); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; Salt, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.3 from 69 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting bowl filled with hearty flavors and satisfying textures, then you are going to absolutely love this Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of savory sausage, tender beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables all simmered to perfection in a richly spiced broth. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to warm you up on chilly days, this soup has it all: warmth, depth, and incredible taste that keeps you coming back for more.

A clean, light wooden surface displaying an artful flat lay of ingredients for sausage and bean soup: a small glass bowl of golden olive oil, a heap of diced bright yellow onion, vibrant diced orange carrots, fresh pale green celery ribs cut into small pieces, two cloves of peeled garlic finely minced on a white ceramic dish, a small spoonful of rich red tomato paste, scattered dried Italian seasoning herbs, rustic ground cumin in a tiny bowl, a pinch of smoky reddish-brown smoked paprika, and coarse black peppercorns nearby; a measuring cup filled with creamy white milk, a small mound of pure white cornstarch powder on a matte plate, plump white cannellini beans rinsed and glistening, sliced rounds of cooked chicken sausage with browned edges arranged neatly on a wooden board, two gleaming silver cans empty and clean as props, a single fresh green bay leaf placed artistically beside the spices, and a small bowl of finely grated Parmesan cheese with a subtle off-white hue; balanced composition with contrasting colors and textures—smooth liquids, diced crisp vegetables, powders, and meat rounds on a minimalist background; soft natural light casting gentle shadows enhancing the freshness and inviting homestyle warmth; overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together to create a complex, comforting soup. Each component plays its part, from the fragrant spices to the creamy beans, bringing color, flavor, and texture to every spoonful.

Olive oil: Provides a silky base to sauté the vegetables and develop flavor.
Diced yellow onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation essential for any great soup.
Carrots (diced): Bring natural sweetness and a vibrant splash of orange to the pot.
Celery (diced): Offers crunch and a subtle herbal note to balance flavors.
Minced garlic: Packs a punch of savory warmth that enhances the overall depth.
Tomato paste: Delivers rich umami and a touch of acidity to brighten the broth.
Italian seasoning: Brings fragrant herbs like oregano and basil for that classic Italian feel.
Ground cumin: Adds an earthy, mildly smoky undertone for complexity.
Smoked paprika: Enhances smokiness and warmth without overpowering the palate.
Freshly ground black pepper: Provides subtle heat and aromatic spice.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Creates the flavorful, nourishing liquid base for the soup.
Fully cooked chicken sausage: Supplies hearty protein and a savory meaty bite.
Cannellini or great northern beans: Creamy beans that add texture and fiber.
Bay leaf: Infuses the soup with a delicate herbal aroma during simmering.
Milk (2% or whole): Used to create a smooth, creamy finish.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the soup slightly, giving it a luscious body.
Salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors (adjust to taste).
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, salty topping for extra indulgence.

How to Make Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and let them cook gently for about 5 to 6 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. This combination, often called a mirepoix, is the essential flavor base for many soups and stews, giving your dish a wonderful aromatic depth. Next, add the minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything for about a minute to let the spices bloom and meld together, setting the stage for a rich, layered taste.

Step 2: Simmer with Broth, Sausage, and Beans

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add the sliced cooked chicken sausage along with the rinsed and drained beans. Tuck the bay leaf into the pot, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. After it reaches a gorgeous simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it cook slowly for 12 to 15 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to harmonize beautifully, the sausage to infuse the broth, and the beans to soften just right without turning mushy.

Step 3: Thicken and Finish with a Creamy Touch

While the soup simmers, whisk together the milk and cornstarch until completely smooth — this slurry is your secret to a velvety texture. Pour it slowly into the simmering soup and stir well. Keep cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until the soup thickens just a bit, giving every spoonful a perfect, silky consistency without being heavy or creamy to the point of overpowering the other flavors.

Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serve

Remove and discard the bay leaf before tasting your creation. Add salt only if it’s needed, since the broth and sausage can already provide a fair amount of seasoning. Ladle generous helpings into warm bowls and, if you like, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for a touch of salty, cheesy goodness. Your delightful Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe is ready to warm you up and bring a smile.

How to Serve Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your soup experience. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a savory umami boost, while a few fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme add color and fresh fragrant notes. For a bit of extra heat, consider a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread—think a sliced baguette or hearty sourdough—that’s perfect for soaking up the luscious broth. A crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette provides a lovely refreshing contrast. For a more substantial meal, some garlic bread or even a side of roasted seasonal vegetables makes for a perfectly rounded plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the soup in rustic crocks or deep bowls, garnished with Parmesan and a sprig of fresh herbs. You can also ladle the soup over cooked grains like quinoa or farro for an extra bite and texture. Hosting a casual dinner? Offer toppings bar style, letting guests add cheese, herbs, chili flakes, or even a swirl of cream to tailor their bowls to their tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe keeps really well, making it perfect for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer your leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors even meld and deepen after sitting overnight, making it taste even better the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully, just be sure to leave out the milk and cornstarch when initially freezing since dairy can separate upon thawing. You can add the creamy slurry fresh when reheating. Store the soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat. If frozen, thaw it first in the fridge overnight. Add the milk and cornstarch slurry during reheating to restore that lovely creamy texture. Stir often to prevent sticking and to ensure the flavors reblend perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this soup?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses chicken sausage, you can substitute with Italian pork sausage, turkey sausage, or even a spicy chorizo for a different flavor twist. Just make sure the sausage is fully cooked before adding it.

What if I don’t have cannellini or great northern beans?

No worries. Any tender white beans like navy beans or butter beans work just as well. You can even try chickpeas for a slightly firmer bite and nutty flavor.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added protein, consider using extra beans or adding hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

You sure can. Sauté the vegetables and spices ahead, then combine everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Add the milk and cornstarch mixture near the end to thicken the soup before serving.

How spicy is this Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe?

This recipe is mildly spiced, focusing on warmth and smokiness rather than heat. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking or serving.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe is one of those comforting meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward to make yet packed with vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients that hit all the right notes. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite weeknight soup that’s both cozy and full of personality.