Name: Sausage Bean Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound sausage; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 bay leaf; 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; Salt and pepper to taste

There’s something deeply comforting about a steaming bowl of sausage bean soup on a cool evening. This rustic, hearty dish is filled with tender beans, flavorful sausage, and a medley of vegetables that simmer together to create a warming meal that’s both filling and nourishing.

Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or prepping it for a cozy weekend meal, this soup is a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish that invites seconds, leaves your kitchen smelling incredible, and feels like a hug in a bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Bean Soup

This soup is budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and packed with protein and fiber, making it both satisfying and nutritious. It comes together with pantry staples and customizable ingredients, so you can easily make it your own. Plus, it gets better the next day, making it a wonderful make-ahead option.

Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried?

Absolutely. Canned beans are a fantastic shortcut and work beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to drain and rinse them to reduce sodium and get a cleaner flavor. If you prefer dried beans, soak them overnight and simmer until tender before adding to the soup.

Ingredients for the Sausage Bean Soup

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a role in building depth of flavor and hearty texture.

Sausage brings the richness and savory bite that anchors the dish.

White beans such as cannellini or great northern add creaminess and substance.

Onion offers a mild sweetness and builds the aromatic base.

Carrots add a touch of sweetness and beautiful color.

Celery gives a fresh crunch and balance.

Garlic brings warmth and depth.

Tomato paste adds richness and umami.

Chicken broth is the flavorful liquid foundation.

Olive oil helps with sautéing and adds smoothness.

Bay leaf infuses the soup with a subtle earthy aroma.

Salt and pepper to season to taste.

How To Make the Sausage Bean Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Build the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add the Beans

Add the drained and rinsed white beans. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the soup thickens slightly and the vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

How to Serve and Store This Soup

Sausage bean soup is best served hot, with a hunk of crusty bread or warm cornbread on the side. It makes a hearty dinner for four people and is perfect for leftovers.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen with time, so it might taste even better the next day. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months, making it a great meal prep option.

What to Serve With Sausage Bean Soup?

Crusty Garlic Bread

The soup soaks beautifully into thick slices of garlic bread, adding flavor to every bite.

Green Salad with Vinaigrette

Something crisp and tangy is the perfect contrast to this hearty bowl.

Cheddar Biscuits

Buttery, flaky biscuits with a cheesy twist complement the savory sausage flavor.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized edges bring a nutty balance to the soup’s richness.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Crispy and cheesy, they’re a satisfying side you’ll keep making.

Classic Caprese Salad

Light and bright, it adds a fresh counterpoint to this warm soup.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

An indulgent pairing that never fails, especially with a smoky cheddar.

Pickled Vegetables

For a pop of acidity, pickles bring crunch and a lively punch to the table.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you’re all about cozy comfort in a bowl, you’ll definitely want to try these other recipes:

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup if you’re after something extra rich and cheesy.
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque for a decadent seafood dinner.
Creamy Mushroom Ravioli when you’re craving cozy with a twist.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta if you’re leaning toward a spicy seafood fix.
Zucchini Lasagna Recipe for a veggie-packed and hearty main.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you try spicy sausage? Add kale or spinach? Or swap in chickpeas? I love hearing how you personalize your bowls.

Explore more cozy and hearty bowls on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next comforting favorite.

Conclusion

Sausage bean soup is one of those reliable, satisfying meals that fills your kitchen with rich aromas and your belly with warmth. It’s unfussy, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable, making it a staple you’ll come back to all season long. From busy weeknights to lazy Sundays, this soup brings a little extra comfort to your table.