When comfort food and nourishment come together in one pot, you get this irresistible Sausage, Bean, and Spinach Soup. Packed with hearty sausage, creamy white beans, and vibrant spinach, this soup delivers a warm hug with every spoonful. It’s the kind of recipe you want to keep in your back pocket for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.
The balance of flavors is what makes this soup a standout. The sausage brings savory depth, the beans add a silky richness, and the spinach lends freshness and color. With just the right amount of garlic, herbs, and crushed tomatoes, every ingredient has its moment to shine. It’s one of those satisfying dishes that feels indulgent while still being healthy.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the recipe, gather your kitchen essentials. You don’t need much, but the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable:
- Large Dutch Oven or Soup Pot: Crucial for even heat distribution and room to simmer all your ingredients without spillage.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for breaking up sausage and stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: For prepping garlic, onions, and any fresh herbs you might be adding.
- Ladle: Makes serving the soup easy and mess-free.
- Colander: Useful for rinsing canned beans to remove excess sodium.
Taking a few minutes to prep your tools sets the tone for an effortless cooking experience.

Ingredients for the Sausage, Bean, and Spinach Soup
Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the comforting layers of this soup. Here’s what you need and why:
- Italian Sausage: Adds rich, savory flavor and protein. Mild or spicy works depending on your preference.
- White Beans (Cannellini or Great Northern): Bring creaminess and body to the soup while offering fiber and heartiness.
- Fresh Spinach: Introduces a pop of green and balances the richness with earthy freshness.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Gives the broth a tangy depth and color that ties everything together.
- Yellow Onion: Creates a sweet, aromatic base when sautéed.
- Garlic Cloves: Boosts flavor with its pungent warmth and classic aroma.
- Chicken Broth: The soup’s main liquid component; adds savory backbone and brings all ingredients into harmony.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle richness.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile with ease.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
How To Make the Sausage, Bean, and Spinach Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Add Italian sausage to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Pour in crushed tomatoes, followed by Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Beans
Add chicken broth and drained white beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Stir in Spinach
Just before serving, add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot. Optional: Serve with crusty bread or a sprinkle of parmesan on top.
Serving and Storing This Cozy Soup
Sausage, Bean, and Spinach Soup is best served piping hot in deep bowls, especially when paired with warm, crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a comforting touch, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving.
When it comes to storing, this soup keeps beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Just leave out the spinach before freezing and add it fresh when reheating for the best texture.
To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of sausage is best for this soup?
Mild or hot Italian sausage works best. Pork sausage gives a traditional richness, but chicken or turkey sausage are great leaner alternatives.
Can I substitute the beans?
Absolutely! Cannellini or Great Northern beans are classic, but chickpeas or navy beans also work well.
Is it okay to use frozen spinach?
Yes. If you’re using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water before stirring it in at the end.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Swap out the sausage for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
You can! Brown the sausage and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything (except the spinach) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in spinach before serving.
How do I thicken the soup if I prefer a heartier texture?
You can mash a portion of the beans or add a small peeled potato while simmering, then blend it slightly before serving.
Want More Soup Ideas with Comfort in Every Spoon?
If you loved this Sausage, Bean, and Spinach Soup, you might enjoy exploring these other warming and hearty favorites:
• Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup for Chilly Nights
• Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup
• Moroccan Sweet Potato Soup with Chickpeas
• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
• Hearty Vegetarian Tortellini Soup
These recipes are perfect for meal prep or when you just need something warm and comforting in a bowl.
Save This Recipe for Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can find it when that cozy craving strikes: Life With Olivia on Pinterest
And when you try it, let me know how it turned out. Did you use spicy or mild sausage? Add extra garlic or a twist of lemon?
I love seeing your creations and tweaks—feel free to drop questions, comments, or your own version of the recipe below!

Sausage, Bean, and Spinach Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A hearty and wholesome soup made with flavorful Italian sausage, creamy white beans, and tender spinach in a savory tomato broth. Perfect for chilly nights or meal prep, this cozy one-pot wonder is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
3 cups fresh spinach
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Pour in chicken broth and add white beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15–20 minutes.
6. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread or grated parmesan if desired.
Notes
For a leaner option, use chicken or turkey sausage.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
If freezing, add spinach only when reheating for better texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American/Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: sausage soup, bean and spinach soup, hearty dinner


