Description
This rich and flavorful Italian sausage soup combines creamy broth, hearty cannellini beans, and fresh spinach for a delicious, comforting meal. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal, packed with savory Italian flavors, and ready in under an hour!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Italian Sausage:
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks, and brown the sausage for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. The rendered fat from the sausage adds flavor to the soup.
2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to the pot with the sausage. Sauté everything together for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds the base flavors of the soup with a bit of heat from the red pepper flakes.
3️⃣ Add the Broth:
Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pot and release any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Bring the broth to a simmer, which will help infuse the soup with all the rich flavors from the sausage and aromatics.
4️⃣ Stir in the Cream and Other Ingredients:
Once the broth is simmering, stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and rinsed cannellini beans. The cream creates a luxurious texture, and the spinach, beans, and tomatoes add heartiness and nutrition.
5️⃣ Season and Simmer:
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together, and the spinach will wilt into the soup, adding color and freshness.
6️⃣ Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. The combination of creamy broth, savory sausage, tender spinach, and beans creates a satisfying, complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Notes
- Adjust spice: If you prefer a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Substitutions: You can substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green.
- Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheats beautifully.