Description

This Italian Sausage Stew with White Beans is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. It features flavorful Italian sausage simmered with tender white beans, diced tomatoes, and fresh greens like kale or spinach. Aromatic herbs and spices elevate the stew, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal that can be prepared quickly on the stovetop. Serve it with crusty bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a complete, rustic dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage and Oil

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs and Spices

1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Liquids and Beans

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
2 (15 oz) cans white beans (cannellini or great northern, drained and rinsed)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Greens and Garnishes

2 cups chopped kale or spinach
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan for serving (optional)

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Instructions

Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary.
Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with juices, drained white beans, and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer the Stew: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the stew simmer for 20–25 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
Add Greens and Finish Cooking: Stir in chopped kale or spinach and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes until the greens are wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread on the side.

Notes

This stew freezes well for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep.
For a thicker stew, mash some of the beans before serving to add creaminess.
Substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version of the stew.
Use gluten-free sausage and broth to make this stew gluten-free.