Description
This Italian sausage and white bean stew is a hearty and comforting dish packed with rustic flavors. Featuring savory Italian sausage, tender white beans, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic herbs simmered in a rich broth, it’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals that warm the soul.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
To Serve
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Add aromatics and seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant to build flavor.
- Incorporate tomato paste: Add the tomato paste and cook it for 1 minute, stirring constantly to deepen its flavor and integrate it well with the vegetables.
- Add tomatoes, beans, and broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, drained white beans, and chicken broth. Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the stew simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow flavors to meld.
- Add greens: Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and cook just until the greens wilt and are tender, preserving their color and nutrients.
- Season and serve: Taste the stew and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve hot topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Notes
- Use spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a bit of heat in the stew.
- For deeper flavor, add a Parmesan rind during simmering and remove before serving.
- This stew is excellent served with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal.
- The stew thickens naturally as it rests, so you can make it ahead and reheat.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months – thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
