It’s a chilly evening, and there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a warm bowl of Tuscan white bean soup. The robust flavors of Italian sausage mingled with tender beans and leafy greens create a delicious hug in a bowl that not only fills your belly but warms your soul. This soup is my go-to for a cozy night in, whether I’m entertaining friends or just indulging in a nighttime treat after a long day.
What makes this dish truly special is its variety of textures and flavors. The heartiness of the sausage, the creaminess of the beans, and the freshness of the spinach all come together to create a delightful medley that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry, making this soup an excellent option for any night of the week.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick to make: It can be on the table in under an hour.
- Flavorful: Each ingredient elevates the dish’s richness.
- A make-ahead meal: Perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
- Budget-friendly: Utilizes affordable, pantry staples.
- Freezer-friendly: Store leftovers for a quick meal down the line.
"This soup tastes incredible and is so simple to make."
Step-by-step overview
Making this soup is a straightforward process. First, you’ll cook the Italian sausage until it’s nicely browned, then soften the vegetables. After adding the garlic for an aromatic punch, pour in the broth and mix in the beans and herbs. Let everything simmer, then fold in the spinach until it wilts. Finally, season to taste, and dinner is served!
What you’ll need for Tuscan white bean soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bunch of spinach, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Italian sausage: Use spicy or sweet according to your flavor preference.
- White beans: Canned beans are convenient, but you can also use dried beans; just ensure they’re cooked beforehand.
- Spinach: Feel free to substitute kale or Swiss chard for a different green.
- Broth: Swap out for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian or use a homemade version for extra depth.
How to make it
Preparing this Tuscan white bean soup is as easy as it is rewarding. Start by browning the sausage in a large pot. Once golden, add in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the vegetables to absorb the fragrant aroma. Next, pour in your broth and add the drained white beans along with the oregano and thyme. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook to meld the flavors, which should take about 20 minutes.
In the final moments, stir in the chopped spinach until it wilts. Season the soup with salt and pepper to your taste.
Pro Tip: For a deeper flavor, brown the sausage well; the caramelization adds excellent richness to the soup.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the broth and add the white beans, oregano, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 20 minutes.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful cooking tips
- Brown your sausage properly: This step adds color and flavor.
- Cut veggies uniformly: This ensures even cooking and a polished appearance.
- Don’t rush the simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps the flavors develop beautifully.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the salt and pepper based on your broth’s seasoning level.
Best ways to enjoy it
This soup is delightful on its own, but a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can elevate it even further. You might consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a refreshing green salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, drizzle with good quality olive oil before serving.
Storage & reheating tips
Leftover Tuscan white bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about three days. If you want to keep it longer, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, where it can last for several months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop until steaming hot.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If you notice your soup is too bland, try adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. If it’s too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. For a soup that’s just not quite right, balancing flavors with salt, pepper, or a touch of sugar can work wonders.
Creative twists for Tuscan white bean soup
You can switch up the original recipe by introducing diced tomatoes, smoky paprika, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for added heat. Alternatively, swap in a different protein like diced chicken or turkey for a change from sausage. Adding different greens, such as arugula or collard greens, is another great way to freshen up the dish.
Common questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried white beans. Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead. You might add extra veggies or even some sautéed mushrooms for depth.
What should I serve with Tuscan white bean soup?
This soup is delicious served with crusty bread for dipping or a side salad. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or Parmesan cheese on top enhances the final presentation.
How long will leftovers last?
Stored properly in the fridge, your Tuscan white bean soup will last about three days. In the freezer, it can be kept for up to three months.
Can I adjust the spice level of the soup?
Absolutely! You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference. Additionally, adding red pepper flakes will give the soup an extra kick.
In enjoying this Tuscan white bean soup, you embrace not just a meal, but a moment of warmth and comfort—perfect for any occasion. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine!
Tuscan White Bean Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the broth and add the white beans, oregano, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 20 minutes.
- Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!