Crockpot White Bean and Sausage Soup
Cozy Up with Crockpot White Bean and Sausage Soup: An Italian-American Comfort Classic
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a hearty, flavorful soup to warm you from the inside out. Our Crockpot White Bean and Sausage Soup is the perfect solution for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner. This recipe beautifully blends Italian and American flavors, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal the whole family will love.
This isn’t just any soup; it’s a slow cooker soup, meaning minimal effort for maximum flavor. Simply brown the sausage, toss everything into your crockpot, and let it work its magic! The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory broth that’s packed with goodness. Cannellini beans provide a creamy texture and a boost of protein, while the Italian sausage adds a delightful savory kick. A touch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Soup:
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep time and hands-off cooking make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of Italian sausage, cannellini beans, and aromatic spices creates a truly delicious soup.
- Comforting: This soup is the epitome of comfort food – warm, hearty, and satisfying.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main course or a hearty appetizer.
Tips & Variations:
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Add Greens: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier soup, blend a cup of the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
- Herb Power: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or thyme.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this soup with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping, a simple side salad, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. It’s also fantastic with a glass of your favorite wine!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Yes! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can substitute with other types of sausage, such as chorizo or andouille, for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: What kind of beans can I use?
A: Cannellini beans are preferred for their creamy texture, but Great Northern beans or Navy beans would also work well.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always double-check the ingredients of your sausage to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten.
Crockpot White Bean and Sausage Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 15 oz cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Transfer the sausage to a slow cooker. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add the cannellini beans, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir in the parsley before serving.
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