There’s something magical about a hearty, homemade soup that warms both your body and soul. Rustic Italian White Bean Soup is the perfect dish for those cozy evenings when you crave something rich, savory, and satisfying. With a medley of fresh vegetables, savory sausage, and creamy beans, this soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

Why You’ll Love Rustic Italian White Bean Soup

This soup isn’t your average comfort food. Here’s why it stands out:

• Packed with Flavor: A combination of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a symphony of taste.
• Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with protein, fiber, and greens, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze.
• Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Ingredients for Rustic Italian White Bean Soup

Main Ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity
Mild Italian sausage	1 lb
Yellow onion (diced)	1 large
Celery (diced)	3 ribs
Carrots (sliced)	2 large
Garlic (minced)	2 tsp
Tomato paste	1 tbsp
Italian seasoning	1 tsp
Crushed red pepper	1/2 tsp (optional)
Ground black pepper	1/2 tsp
Chicken broth	4 cups (32 oz)
Great Northern beans (drained)	2 cans (15.5 oz each)
Baby spinach	2 cups
Heavy whipping cream	1/2 cup
Fresh parsley (chopped)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
3. Remove excess fat if desired, but leave some for added flavor.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

1. Reduce the heat to medium.
2. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Build the Flavor Base

1. Add the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and black pepper.
2. Stir well to coat the vegetables and sausage evenly.
3. Let this mixture cook for about a minute to enhance the flavors.

4. Add the Broth and Beans

1. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
2. Add the drained and rinsed Great Northern beans.
3. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4. Let it cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots and celery are tender.

5. Add the Cream and Spinach

1. Reduce the heat to low.
2. Stir in the heavy whipping cream, allowing it to blend into the broth.
3. Add the fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts. This should take about 5 minutes.

6. Garnish and Serve

1. Once the spinach is wilted, the soup is ready to serve.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips for the Perfect Rustic Italian White Bean Soup

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality sausage make all the difference.
• Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your heat preference.
• Thicker Broth: Mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the soup for a creamier texture.
• Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or batch cooking.

Creative Variations

1. Make It Vegetarian

• Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

2. Add Pasta

• Stir in cooked ditalini or small shells for an even heartier dish.

3. Use Kale Instead of Spinach

• Kale adds a slightly different texture and is just as nutritious.

4. Add a Splash of Wine

• Deglaze the pot with white wine before adding the broth for added depth of flavor.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	~350
Protein	~20g
Fat	~18g
Carbohydrates	~25g
Fiber	~6g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

2. Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

3. Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes, cannellini beans or navy beans work just as well.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.

5. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or a splash of milk for a lighter option.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans are great additions.

Bring Comfort to Your Table

Rustic Italian White Bean Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of warmth and comfort. Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a little extra nourishment, this soup is as versatile as it is delicious.

Ready to make your own? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the rich, hearty flavors of this classic Italian soup today!

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