Minestrone with White Beans and Italian Sausage Recipe – Italian Special

Minestrone with White Beans and Italian Sausage is a hearty, comforting soup packed with vegetables, tender beans, and flavorful sausage. Originating from Italy, this dish is a wholesome combination of fresh ingredients simmered in a rich broth. With its blend of herbs, tomatoes, and protein-packed beans, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, Minestrone with White Beans and Italian Sausage is a delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite. Let’s get started on this wonderful recipe!

  • Prep Time15 min
  • Cook Time30 min
  • Total Time45 min

For the Soup:

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Prepare the Ingredients:

1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2

Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon.

3

Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove excess grease if needed.

Sauté the Vegetables:

4

Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.

5

Stir in the garlic and zucchini, cooking for another 2 minutes.

Simmer the Soup:

6

Pour in the diced tomatoes and broth. Stir well to combine.

7

Add the drained white beans, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes.

8

Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

9

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Cook the Pasta:

10

Stir in the pasta and continue simmering for another 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

11

If the soup thickens too much, add a little more broth or water.

Finish and Serve:

12

Add the fresh spinach or kale, stirring until wilted.

13

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

14

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

15

Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Recipe Notes :

Sausage Choice : You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference.

Vegetable Variations : Feel free to add green beans, bell peppers, or potatoes for extra heartiness.

Pasta Substitute : Swap out small pasta for rice or quinoa if desired.

Storage : Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a little extra broth if needed.