This Creamy Bean & Sausage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish made with smoky kielbasa, tender white beans, and a rich, creamy broth. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving a satisfying meal. With its combination of savory ingredients and a creamy texture, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Creamy Bean & Sausage Soup
- 26 ounces sliced kielbasa
- 30 ounces Great Northern white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 diced onion
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 diced carrots
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions for Creamy Bean & Sausage Soup
1. Sauté the Kielbasa
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the 1 tablespoon vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for about 5-6 minutes, until browned on all sides. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables
- In the same pot, melt the 3 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and diced carrots and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux
- Sprinkle the ¼ cup flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook the flour mixture for 2-3 minutes, until lightly golden and no longer raw.
4. Add the Liquid
- Gradually whisk in the 3 cups chicken broth and 1 cup milk, stirring to combine and ensure there are no lumps from the flour. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Add the Beans and Kielbasa
- Stir in the rinsed and drained Great Northern white beans, the browned kielbasa, and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
- Once the soup has thickened and the flavors have combined, remove it from the heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot, or add an additional tablespoon of flour to the roux.
- Cheese Addition: For a richer flavor, you can stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese just before serving.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or potatoes for added flavor and texture.
Variations for Creamy Bean & Sausage Soup
1. Spicy Sausage Soup
- Use spicy kielbasa or andouille sausage for a kick of heat, and add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the soup for extra spice.
2. Creamy Bean and Bacon Soup
- Replace the kielbasa with crisped bacon or ham for a different smoky flavor. Stir in the bacon at the end of cooking to keep it crispy.
3. Vegetarian Creamy Bean Soup
- Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other beans in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute Great Northern white beans with cannellini beans, navy beans, or even kidney beans for a slightly different texture and flavor.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
A Comforting and Creamy Soup
This Creamy Bean & Sausage Soup is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and full of rich flavors. The combination of tender white beans, smoky kielbasa, and a creamy broth creates the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or alongside some crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a favorite for cozy dinners!
