Description
Spicy Sausage and White Bean Stew is a bold, hearty dish made with savory sausage, creamy white beans, and warming spices simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. This satisfying one-pot meal is perfect for cold nights, easy weeknight dinners, or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups baby spinach or kale
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat to prepare for cooking the sausage and vegetables.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the spicy Italian sausage to the pot and cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned all over and cooked through.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot to build the stew’s bold flavor.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Mix in the tomato paste and cook it for about 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes, drained white beans, and chicken broth. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the stew to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the stew to thicken naturally.
- Add Greens: Stir in the baby spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes, adding a fresh, nutritious element to the stew.
- Final Seasoning and Garnish: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute mild sausage for a less spicy version and add extra chili flakes for heat if desired.
- The stew thickens naturally as it rests, so consider making it ahead of time for enhanced flavor and texture.
- For serving, pair the stew with crusty bread or serve it over rice to make a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
