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Spicy Italian Sausage Soup

A bowl of spicy Italian sausage soup with cannellini beans and kale topped with grated Parmesan cheese

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A hearty one-pot spicy Italian sausage soup packed with creamy cannellini beans, fresh kale, and a rich tomato broth. Bold, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 4 cups chopped kale or spinach
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, optional
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up, until deeply browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain most of the excess grease, leaving about one tablespoon in the pot.
  2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened and lightly golden, about 5 to 6 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for at least 15 minutes for best flavor.
  5. Stir in the cannellini beans and kale. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until kale is fully wilted and beans are warmed through. If using spinach, cook for just 1 to 2 minutes.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

  • Use mild or sweet Italian sausage for a less spicy version.
  • Great Northern or navy beans can substitute for cannellini beans.
  • Freeze without the cream for best texture. Stir in fresh cream when reheating.
  • This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

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