If you’re craving something cozy and packed with flavor, I’ve got just the thing for you—a fan-freaking-tastic Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe. This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, combining hearty beans, savory sausage, and fresh spinach all simmered in flavorful broth. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become one of your go-to recipes, especially on chilly nights or when you want something comforting yet simple to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Comforting: The combination of Italian sausage and creamy white beans is pure soul food that’ll satisfy your hunger deeply.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these pantry staples on hand, making it a quick weeknight win.
- Flexible and Flavorful: Customize the spice level and add greens you love—it always turns out delicious no matter what.
- Family Favorite: My family goes crazy for this soup, and it’s always requested repeatedly once I make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe plays an important role to build layers of flavor and texture. From the mild Italian sausage to the tender carrots and fresh spinach, these components really come together like magic. Here’s a quick tip: using fresh veggies and quality sausage makes a noticeable difference in taste.

- Mild Italian sausage: Look for good-quality sausage with mild seasoning for balanced flavor—you want it cooked just right for that meaty base.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth; make sure to dice finely so it cooks evenly with the veggies.
- Celery: Brings that classic soup aroma and crunch before softening; fresh celery is best here.
- Carrots: They add subtle sweetness and body—slice into rounds so they cook quickly yet retain some bite.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic packs way more punch than pre-minced—don’t skimp on it!
- Tomato paste: This ingredient brings a rich umami flavor that deepens the overall taste.
- Italian seasoning: A blend that brings in classic Tuscan herbs like basil and oregano—feel free to tweak to your taste.
- Crushed red pepper: Just a pinch adds a nice gentle heat, but you can always adjust if you love spiciness.
- Ground black pepper: Freshly cracked is best for a punchy peppery note.
- Chicken broth: Homemade or low-sodium store-bought works great—this is your soup’s flavorful base.
- Great Northern beans: Rinsed and drained; these creamy white beans soak up all the flavors beautifully.
- Fresh baby spinach: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch plus a boost of nutrients. You can substitute with kale or chard if you prefer.
- Heavy whipping cream: This is the secret to that silky, rich finish that I absolutely love in this soup.
- Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top gives a burst of freshness and color.
Variations
I love how versatile this Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe is—it invites so much room for personalization. I always encourage you to play with ingredients or tailor it to dietary needs, and honestly, it’s just as delicious each time.
- Spicy Kick: Once, I threw in a diced jalapeño along with the red pepper flakes—my spice-loving friends went wild for it!
- Vegetarian Version: Swap sausage for smoked paprika and extra mushrooms to keep that smoky depth without meat.
- Greens Swap: Sometimes I use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach, which adds a nice hearty texture.
- Make it Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free but double-check your broth to be sure it fits your needs.
How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the mild Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Brown it thoroughly, stirring occasionally for about 10 to 15 minutes until it’s nicely caramelized but not too dry. I always find this step sets a deep meaty flavor for the whole soup, so don’t rush it—but be careful not to burn it either!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Lower the heat to medium and add your diced onion, celery, and sliced carrots straight to the sausage. Stir and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for just about a minute more—garlic can go from sweet to bitter quickly, so keep an eye on it.
Step 3: Add Tomato Paste & Spices
Stir in the tomato paste along with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and freshly ground black pepper. This step adds a rich, aromatic layer that really starts to build the flavor base. I like to cook this for a minute or two to let those spices bloom before adding liquids.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Beans
Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained, rinsed white beans. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 6 to 7 minutes until the celery and carrots become tender but not mushy. This simmering melds all the flavors together so well—your kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Spinach
Lastly, stir in the heavy whipping cream and fresh baby spinach. Keep simmering for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup has that silky, luscious texture. This finishing touch is what makes this Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe stand out—it’s creamy but still light and satisfying.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup warm into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. I find this little pop of green really brightens up the rich flavors. Grab crusty bread or garlic toast on the side, and you’ve got yourself an effortless and heartwarming meal.
Pro Tips for Making Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe
- Brown the Sausage Well: Take your time browning the sausage until golden; this adds a caramelized flavor base that makes the soup truly standout.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Mince garlic fresh for the brightest flavor, and add it last to the veggies to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust Cream Amount: If you want it lighter, reduce the cream or substitute half with milk; I’ve done this for a less indulgent version without losing creaminess.
- Don’t Overcook Greens: Add spinach last and cook just until wilted to keep its vibrant color and texture.
How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe

Garnishes
I always finish this soup with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley—it adds a splash of color and fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the cream. Sometimes if I’m feeling fancy, I’ll grate a little Parmesan on top too; it melts just perfectly and adds an extra savory note.
Side Dishes
You can’t go wrong pairing this soup with rustic or garlic bread to soak up every last drop. A side salad with a zesty vinaigrette also balances the richness nicely. I’ve found simple roasted vegetables or even a cheesy polenta make fantastic companions for a heartier meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, I’ve served this soup in mini bread bowls—that always impresses and feels so special. Another idea is to garnish with a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil and some crunchy toasted pine nuts for a texture contrast. It’s a simple soup but with a presentation twist, it shines beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, where the soup stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. A little tip: the soup tends to thicken as it chills, so you might want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to bring it back to the perfect texture.
Freezing
This Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe freezes beautifully. I freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags without the fresh spinach and cream added. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight, reheat gently, and stir in fresh spinach and cream at the end for best results.
Reheating
Reheat each serving slowly over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. This helps maintain the soup’s creamy texture and prevents curdling. Add a splash of broth if the soup feels too thick, and stir in any fresh spinach or cream last to keep them fresh and vibrant.
FAQs
-
Can I use other types of sausage for this Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe?
Absolutely! While mild Italian sausage works wonderfully, you can swap in spicy Italian sausage for more heat or even turkey sausage if you want a leaner option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s fully cooked and browned for the best flavor.
-
Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
You can, but make sure to soak and cook the dried beans fully before adding to the soup. Using canned beans saves time and ensures a creamy texture without any guesswork, which is why I usually go canned for quick weekday dinners.
-
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you check your chicken broth and sausage labels to avoid any hidden gluten. Always look for products labeled gluten-free if you’re sensitive or cooking for someone with celiac disease.
-
Can I make this Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe vegan?
Definitely! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for savory umami, use vegetable broth instead of chicken, and swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream. The soup will still be comforting and delicious.
-
How spicy is this soup?
The spice level is mild, thanks to the crushed red pepper, but you can dial it up or down. I usually keep it mild for family dinners but love throwing in extra if we’re craving some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s reliably delicious, easy to make, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. If you’re looking for a soup with comforting depth and fresh finishing touches, you’ve got to try this. I promise once you make it, it’ll quickly become a cherished staple in your recipe rotation, just like it did in mine.
Print
Tuscan White Bean Soup with Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tuscan, Italian
Description
This comforting Tuscan White Bean Soup combines mild Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, Great Northern beans, and a touch of cream to create a rich and hearty dish perfect for cozy meals. Infused with Italian seasoning and a hint of crushed red pepper, this soup offers a delicious balance of savory flavors and creamy texture, finished with fresh spinach and parsley for a nutritious touch.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 3 ribs celery, diced
- 2 large carrots, sliced into rounds
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
Seasonings and Broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cups (32 ounces) chicken broth
Beans and Greens
- 2 cans (15.5 ounces each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh baby spinach
Dairy and Garnish
- ½ cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream
- Parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the mild Italian sausage. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and cooked through, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion, celery, and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook the vegetables until the onions have softened, roughly 3-5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and ground black pepper. Mix well to combine and coat the vegetables and sausage with the seasonings.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained and rinsed Great Northern beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until the celery and carrots have softened to your preference.
- Finish with Cream and Spinach: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and fresh baby spinach. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- For a spicier soup, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach if desired.
- To make this soup vegetarian, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- This soup freezes well, but consider adding fresh spinach when reheating instead of before freezing to retain its bright color and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg

