Hearty Bean Soup with Smoked Sausage

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Hearty Bean Soup with Smoked Sausage to warm you from the inside out. This protein-packed one-pot wonder combines tender beans, savory smoked sausage, and colorful vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

I still remember the first time I made this soup on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but satisfying. The smoky aroma filling my kitchen as the sausage browned was incredible, and when I added the beans and broth, I knew I had a winner. This hearty bean soup with smoked sausage has become my go-to recipe when I want comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s ready in under an hour, feeds a crowd, and tastes even better the next day. The combination of creamy cannellini beans and hearty kidney beans creates the perfect texture, while the smoked sausage adds that irresistible savory depth.

What You’ll Need for This Bean and Sausage Soup

I always start with high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor in this hearty bean soup with smoked sausage. Kielbasa or andouille work beautifully here. Pro tip: don’t skip browning the sausage first, as it creates a flavorful base that makes all the difference in your finished soup.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into half-moons
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced into small pieces
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 6 cups chicken or beef broth (I prefer beef for richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make This Comforting Sausage Bean Soup

I recommend using a large Dutch oven for even heat distribution when making this hearty bean soup with smoked sausage. The process is straightforward and forgiving, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until nicely browned and caramelized. The sausage should have golden edges. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, keeping those flavorful drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Watch carefully so the garlic doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Stir in both types of beans, the diced tomatoes with their juice, broth, oregano, thyme, and bay leaves. Season generously with salt and pepper. This is when your soup base really comes together.

Step 4: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer simmer time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For an even thicker consistency, gently mash about a cup of beans against the pot’s side with your spoon.

Step 5: Return the browned sausage to the pot and heat through for about 5 minutes. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The soup should be rich, savory, and perfectly balanced.

Perfect Pairings for Your Bean Soup

This hearty bean soup with smoked sausage pairs wonderfully with sides that complement its rich, savory profile.

Crusty French Bread: The crispy exterior and soft interior are perfect for soaking up every last drop of this flavorful broth. The contrast in textures makes each bite more satisfying.

Cornbread with Butter: The subtle sweetness of cornbread balances the smoky, savory notes of the sausage while adding a comforting Southern touch to your meal.

Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup, adding brightness and helping balance the richness.

Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor and gives you another delicious way to enjoy the best sides for hearty bean soup.

More Hearty Soups to Warm Your Table

This hearty bean soup with smoked sausage fits perfectly alongside other comforting bowls that bring warmth to any meal. For another protein-packed option with similar robust flavors, the Kielbasa Potato Soup features smoky sausage in a creamy potato base that’s equally satisfying. When craving Tex-Mex inspired warmth, the Green Chicken Enchilada Soup delivers bold flavors and hearty ingredients.

These bean-forward soups also complement vegetable-rich options beautifully. Serve this hearty bean soup as a first course before the Rosemary Roasted Garlic Bean Soup for an elegant soup flight, or pair with the Slow Cooker Cowboy Soup for a complete comfort food spread. The Creamy Hamburger Potato Soup offers another protein-rich alternative when feeding a hungry crowd.

Storing Your Leftover Soup

This hearty bean soup with smoked sausage stores beautifully and actually tastes better the next day. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water as the soup thickens when chilled. Microwave reheating works too, just use 50% power and stir every minute for even heating.

Pro tip: I recommend portioning the soup into individual servings before freezing. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze when you can thaw just what you need.

Your Bean Soup Questions Answered

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