Print

Cozy White Bean Tuscan Sausage and Kale Soup

white bean tuscan sausage and kale soup - featured image

A hearty and comforting soup featuring Italian sausage, white beans, kale, and a parmesan rind simmered to create a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy nights and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or mild)
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups chopped kale, stems removed (about 1 bunch)
  • 1 large piece parmesan rind (about 2 inches)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and kale. Rinse and drain the cannellini beans. Set aside the parmesan rind.
  2. Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook about 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally. Add garlic, red pepper flakes, and thyme; cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add broth and beans: Pour in chicken broth and add the rinsed cannellini beans. Add the parmesan rind. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Add kale and sausage: Stir in the chopped kale and browned sausage. Simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes until kale is tender but still bright green.
  6. Season to taste: Remove the parmesan rind. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Stir well.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and optionally sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese or a drizzle of good olive oil.

Notes

If the soup feels too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens flavors instantly. Don’t rush browning the sausage for depth of flavor. Add kale towards the end to keep it tender but with texture. Parmesan rind should be removed before serving as it is not meant to be eaten.

Nutrition

Keywords: white bean soup, Tuscan sausage soup, kale soup, parmesan rind soup, easy soup recipe, cozy soup, Italian sausage, healthy soup