Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Sausage Stew with White Beans is a hearty, rustic one-pot meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. With tender white beans, savory Italian sausage, and rich tomato broth infused with garlic and herbs, this stew is cozy, satisfying, and perfect for chilly nights. It’s high in protein, naturally gluten-free, and makes great leftovers.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Italian sausage (mild or spicy, sliced or crumbled)olive oildiced oniongarlic (minced)carrots (sliced)celery (chopped)canned diced tomatoes (with juice)tomato pastecanned white beans (cannellini or great northern, drained and rinsed)chicken or vegetable brothbay leafdried oregano and basilsalt and pepperfresh spinach or kale (optional)fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up if using bulk sausage. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.

Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring well.

Return sausage to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, white beans, broth, bay leaf, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.

Stir in spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking, if using.

Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Serve hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: approximately 45 minutes

Variations

Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.

Add zucchini, bell pepper, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage.

Add cooked pasta or rice for a heartier stew.

Top with shaved parmesan or drizzle with olive oil before serving.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until hot.Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What kind of sausage should I use?

Mild or spicy Italian sausage works great—pork, chicken, or turkey.

Can I use dried beans?

Yes, soak and cook them separately before adding to the stew.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, skip the sausage and use plant-based sausage or extra veggies and beans.

Can I use kale instead of spinach?

Absolutely—kale adds a hearty, slightly bitter contrast that pairs well.

Do I need to drain the tomatoes?

No, include the juice for a more flavorful broth.

How do I thicken the stew?

Mash some of the beans or simmer uncovered longer to reduce the liquid.

Can I use broth concentrate or bouillon?

Yes, just mix with water as directed for equivalent broth flavor.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free.

What pairs well with it?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad are perfect complements.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this stew scales up easily—just use a large enough pot.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage Stew with White Beans is a flavorful, nourishing bowl of comfort that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cooking. Loaded with bold Italian flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that delivers warmth, satisfaction, and homemade charm in every spoonful.