Description

Ever longed for a warm, soul-soothing soup that’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own and bursting with rich, savory flavors? That’s exactly what White Bean and Sausage Soup delivers! This contest-winning recipe combines spicy Italian sausage, creamy white beans, nutty barley, and vibrant veggies in a fragrant, herb-infused broth

Ingredients

To make White Bean and Sausage Soup for 8 servings (3 quarts), you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds depth, texture, or nutrition to this hearty dish:

Bulk Italian Sausage (1 lb): Adds spicy, savory flavor and protein.
Medium Onion (1, finely chopped): Brings sweet, savory depth to the broth.
Garlic Cloves (3, sliced): Infuses the soup with warm, aromatic flavor.
Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth (4 cans, 14½ oz each): Creates a rich, lighter base for the soup.
Pinto or Cannellini Beans (2 cans, 15 oz each, rinsed and drained): Adds creamy texture and protein.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14½ oz, undrained): Brings tangy, juicy flavor.
Medium Pearl Barley (1 cup): Adds nutty, chewy texture and heartiness.
Large Carrot (1, sliced): Provides sweetness and crunch.
Celery Rib (1, sliced): Adds mild flavor and texture.
Minced Fresh Sage (1 tsp): Brings earthy, aromatic notes.
Minced Fresh Rosemary (½ tsp, or ⅛ tsp dried, crushed): Adds warm, piney flavor.
Chopped Fresh Kale (6 cups): Adds vibrant color, nutrition, and a slight bite.

Substitutions and Variations:

Sausage: Swap with turkey sausage, chorizo, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Beans: Use navy beans, great northern beans, or chickpeas.
Broth: Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or beef broth for a richer flavor.
Barley: Swap with farro, quinoa, or brown rice (adjust cooking time as needed).
Kale: Use spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens (spinach wilts faster, so add it in the last 5 minutes).
Herbs: Replace sage and rosemary with thyme, oregano, or an Italian herb blend.
Add-Ons: Stir in a splash of white wine, Parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.

Why These Ingredients Matter: The sausage and beans provide protein and heartiness, while the barley and veggies add fiber and nutrients. The herbs and tomatoes create a flavorful, aromatic broth, making this a balanced, wholesome meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics

In a 6-quart Dutch oven, cook 1 lb bulk Italian sausage and 1 finely chopped medium onion over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 6-7 minutes until the sausage is no longer pink and the onion is soft.
Add 3 sliced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Drain excess fat from the pot to keep the soup light.

Tip: Break up the sausage with a wooden spoon for even crumbles. Draining the fat reduces greasiness.

Step 2: Add Broth and Main Ingredients

Stir in 4 cans (14½ oz each) reduced-sodium chicken broth, 2 cans (15 oz each) rinsed and drained pinto or cannellini beans, 1 can (14½ oz) diced tomatoes (undrained), 1 cup medium pearl barley, 1 sliced large carrot, 1 sliced celery rib, 1 tsp minced fresh sage, and ½ tsp minced fresh rosemary (or ⅛ tsp dried, crushed).
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Tip: Scrape the bottom of the pot while stirring to incorporate the flavorful browned bits from the sausage.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the barley soften and flavors meld.

Tip: Check the barley at 40 minutes—it should be tender but chewy. If it’s too firm, simmer a bit longer.

Step 4: Add Kale and Finish

Stir in 6 cups chopped fresh kale and return to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the kale and vegetables are tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper if needed.

Tip: Chop kale into bite-sized pieces and remove tough stems for the best texture.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
Offer grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil on the side for extra flavor.

Tip: Let guests add their own garnishes for a fun, customizable touch.