Name: Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup diced yellow onion; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 ribs celery, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 pound fully cooked chicken sausage, sliced into rounds; 2 (15 ounce) cans cannellini or great northern beans, rinsed and drained; 1 bay leaf; ½ cup milk (2% or whole); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; Salt, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 4.1 from 78 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. Packed with tender sausages, creamy beans, and vibrant veggies, this soup brings together simple ingredients in a way that excites your taste buds and nourishes your soul. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or looking for a flavorful meal prep option, this recipe combines rich textures and bold flavors that truly celebrate the magic of home cooking.

A clean wooden surface with all main ingredients for sausage and bean soup artfully arranged: a small bowl of golden olive oil shimmering under soft light; a heap of diced yellow onion pieces showing translucent layers; bright orange diced carrots and fresh celery ribs cut into small chunks, their vivid green and orange colors contrasting; two peeled garlic cloves next to a small dish containing thick, rich red tomato paste; tiny wooden spoons holding earthy brown Italian seasoning, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and fresh ground black pepper powders arranged neatly in a line; two rustic cans of creamy white cannellini beans spilled partly onto the surface with a few beans scattered naturally; slices of fully cooked chicken sausage with browned edges fanned out slightly; a fresh glossy green bay leaf placed delicately; a glass measuring cup filled with creamy white 2% milk; a small bowl with fine white cornstarch powder; a small pile of coarse salt crystals on a dark ceramic dish; and a small bowl of grated Parmesan with visible texture. The ingredients are spaced evenly to create balance and harmony, capturing diverse textures and warm, earthy hues with natural diffused daylight from one side, soft shadows, minimal props, and a neutral background to highlight colors and details. Overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe plays a special role, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. These pantry staples come together effortlessly, delivering layers of flavor, hearty textures, and beautiful colors that make each spoonful memorable.

Olive oil: Adds a silky base that sautés the aromatics to perfection.
Diced yellow onion: Brings sweetness and depth as it softens.
Carrots (diced): Provide natural sweetness and a pop of color.
Celery (diced): Gives a subtle crunch and a fresh earthy note.
Minced garlic: Infuses a fragrant richness that wakes up the whole soup.
Tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and adds subtle acidity.
Italian seasoning: Offers warm herbal notes that enhance the overall savory profile.
Ground cumin: Introduces a gentle earthiness with a hint of smokiness.
Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper: Provides a subtle kick and complexity.
Low-sodium chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that ties everything together.
Fully cooked chicken sausage (sliced): Contributes protein and a satisfying meaty bite.
Cannellini or great northern beans (rinsed and drained): Lend creamy texture and hearty substance.
Bay leaf: Infuses subtle herbal undertones during simmering.
Milk (2% or whole): Creates a comforting creaminess to balance the spices.
Cornstarch: Acts as a natural thickener for a luscious broth.
Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a salty, nutty finish when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Build Flavor

Start by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, the classic soffritto trio, and cook until they’re softened and fragrant. This base sets the stage, bringing sweetness and earthiness that make the soup so inviting. Then stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, and the aromatic spices—Italian seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cooking these together for about a minute unlocks their flavors and creates a rich, savory foundation.

Step 2: Add Broth, Sausage, and Beans for the Hearty Core

Next, pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan and bring everything to life. Add the sliced chicken sausage and drained cannellini beans—these are the stars that make this soup satisfying and filling. Tuck a bay leaf into the mix, then simmer over medium heat until bubbles appear, reducing heat to maintain a gentle simmer. This step lets the flavors meld beautifully while the sausage infuses the broth with meaty goodness. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes for perfectly tender beans and sausage.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup to Perfect Creaminess

To give the soup a silky, rich texture, whisk together milk and cornstarch until smooth—this simple slurry will gently thicken the broth without overloading it. Stir the mixture into the simmering soup and let it cook for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. This final step creates a luscious, comforting mouthfeel that perfectly balances the rustic ingredients.

Step 4: Final Touches and Seasoning

Remove and discard the bay leaf for a clean taste. Then, taste your soup and add salt only if needed, allowing the natural flavors from the broth, sausage, and beans to shine. Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you like, finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory richness that makes every bite unforgettable.

How to Serve Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate the experience of this sausage and bean soup. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a fresh, herbaceous note, while grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream lends creamy tang. For a little heat, crack some extra black pepper or scatter red pepper flakes on top. These touches personalize your bowl and bring out the depth of flavors.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic toast, perfect for soaking up every last bit of broth. A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast, while roasted vegetables bring additional textures and vibrant color to your meal. Choose your sides based on whether you want a light complement or a full, hearty feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this sausage and bean soup recipe in rustic bowls with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top for a glossy finish. Garnish with croutons for crunch or even swirl in a bit of pesto to add brightness. For a crowd, present it in mini bread bowls or mason jars for a charming, casual vibe that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen as it rests, making your next meal taste even better. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain safety and freshness.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this comforting meal on a busy day, freezing is a great option. Freeze the soup in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be mindful to leave some room for expansion. Avoid freezing with dairy mixed in; instead, add milk and corn starch when reheating to keep the texture silky and fresh.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm your soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If thawed from frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge first. Add the milk and cornstarch slurry during reheating to restore the creamy texture, making your leftovers taste just like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use pork sausage instead of chicken sausage?

Absolutely! Pork sausage works wonderfully and can add a richer flavor to the soup. Just be sure it’s fully cooked before adding if not using pre-cooked sausage.

What kind of beans works best for this recipe?

Cannellini or great northern beans are ideal because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture, but navy beans or even chickpeas can be tasty alternatives.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and check that the sausage contains no gluten additives.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based sausage or add extra beans and vegetables to maintain the heartiness.

How spicy is this soup?

This recipe has a gentle warmth from the smoked paprika and black pepper but is not spicy hot. You can always adjust by adding chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer more heat.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a bowl of homemade Sausage and Bean Soup Recipe—it’s simple, soulful, and satisfying in every way. Whether you’re feeding your family or cozying up solo, this recipe promises comfort and flavor that stick with you. I encourage you to give it a try and savor the delicious layers of taste that only a well-made soup can bring.