Italian Bean Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Bean Soup is quick, simple, and packed with flavor. The combination of Italian sausage and beans creates a hearty and satisfying soup that the entire family will love. It's budget-friendly and allows for substitutions, whether you're using different beans, meats, or vegetables. Plus, it’s easy to make with pantry staples and ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound Italian sausage or ground beef

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 carrot, chopped

• 3 cups beef broth or chicken broth

• 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes (with juices)

• 15 ounces canned cannellini beans (or white kidney beans), drained and rinsed

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 bay leaf

Directions

1. Brown the sausage and onion in a large pot until no pink remains. Drain any fat.

2. Add the remaining ingredients to the pot and bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the carrot is tender and flavors have blended.

4. Discard the bay leaf before serving.

5. Garnish with parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 22 minutes

• Total time: 37 minutes

Variations

• Meat substitutions: If you don’t have Italian sausage, you can use ground beef, ground chicken, or even meatballs. Add a bit of fennel seed and chili flakes if you prefer a spicier version.

• Vegetable options: Feel free to throw in any leftover vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or frozen mixed vegetables.

• Beans: While this recipe calls for cannellini beans, you can swap them out for Great Northern beans, black beans, or any beans you have in your pantry.

• Additions: For a more filling soup, you can add pasta, rice, or couscous.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Ladle it into zippered bags, date them, and lay them flat in the freezer. It should last up to 4 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove until warmed through. Add salt and pepper to taste.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?

Yes! If you want to use dried beans, make sure to soak and cook them beforehand. You’ll need to use half the amount of dried beans compared to canned or cooked beans.

What can I add to the soup for extra flavor?

You can add more garlic, fresh herbs like basil or rosemary, or chili flakes for a bit of heat. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese before serving also adds extra flavor.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for easy future meals.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the flavor.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, salad, or even some freshly baked biscuits. For an extra touch, sprinkle some parmesan on top.

Can I use ground turkey instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey can be substituted for the sausage. Just be sure to add extra seasonings, like fennel seeds, to bring out the flavor.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make this in a slow cooker, brown the sausage and onion first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What type of broth should I use?

You can use either beef or chicken broth, depending on your preference. Vegetable broth is also a great option if you're looking to make the soup vegetarian.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup lasts for up to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.

Can I add pasta to the soup?

Yes! If you want to add pasta, cook it separately and add it to each bowl before serving. This prevents the pasta from getting too mushy in the soup.

Conclusion

This Italian Bean Soup is a flavorful, hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s easy to make, customizable, and a great way to use up pantry staples. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly day or preparing a quick dinner, this soup will surely become a family favorite!

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