Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup: Simple 7-Step Comfort

Name: Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup: Simple 7-Step Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound mild Italian sausage; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 3 ribs celery, diced; 2 large carrots, sliced; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cans (15.5 ounces each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed; 2 cups fresh baby spinach; ½ cup heavy whipping cream; Chopped parsley, for garnish

by basmer

9 de November de 2025

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Hearty Tuscan white bean soup has become my go-to comfort food, especially on chilly evenings. I remember the first time I tasted an authentic version in a small trattoria in Florence; the rich, savory broth and tender beans were pure magic. This recipe brings those rustic Tuscan flavors right into my kitchen, filling my home with the aroma of herbs and simmering goodness. It’s a truly satisfying meal that feels both simple and incredibly special. Let’s get cooking this delicious Tuscan white bean soup recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl of pure comfort and deliciousness. Here’s why you’ll be coming back for more:

It’s incredibly satisfying and filling, perfect for a main course.
The combination of Italian sausage and tender beans creates a wonderfully complex flavor profile.
This hearty white bean soup is surprisingly easy to make, even on busy weeknights.
It’s packed with nutritious ingredients like beans and spinach.
The rustic, authentic Tuscan flavors will transport you straight to Italy.
This versatile recipe allows for easy customization with extra veggies or a vegetarian twist.
It’s the ultimate hearty white bean soup for cozy evenings.

Ingredients for Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to a truly delicious Tuscan white bean soup experience. You’ll be amazed at how these components come together to create something so special. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound mild Italian sausage – provides a savory, herby base
1 large yellow onion, diced – about 1.5 cups, for sweetness
3 ribs celery, diced – adds aromatic depth
2 large carrots, sliced – about 1 cup, for a touch of sweetness and color
2 teaspoons garlic, minced – essential for that classic Italian flavor
1 tablespoon tomato paste – deepens the flavor and adds richness
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of classic herbs
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – for a gentle warmth
½ teaspoon ground black pepper – to enhance the savory notes
4 cups chicken broth – the liquid base for our wonderful soup
2 cans (15.5 ounces each) Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed – these creamy beans are key to a Tuscan cannellini bean soup feel
2 cups fresh baby spinach – wilts down beautifully for added nutrients
½ cup heavy whipping cream – makes the soup luxuriously creamy
Chopped parsley, for garnish – for a fresh, vibrant finish

How to Make Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

This recipe for an easy Tuscan white bean soup is simpler than you might think, and the result is incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps to create a rustic, flavorful bowl that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Begin by browning the Italian sausage in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. As the sausage cooks, break it up into smaller pieces with your spoon. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s nicely browned and fragrant.
Step 2: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced yellow onion, celery ribs, and sliced carrots to the pot. Sauté these vegetables, stirring occasionally, until the onions have softened and become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma starting to build is wonderful!
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one minute more until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4: Add the tablespoon of tomato paste, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and ground black pepper. Stir everything together well, allowing the tomato paste to toast slightly for about a minute. This deepens its flavor.
Step 5: Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and add the drained and rinsed Great Northern beans. Scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits, which add a lot of flavor to our soup.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 6-7 minutes, or until the celery and carrots are tender but not mushy. This is a key step in how to make Tuscan white bean soup that has the perfect texture.
Step 7: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and the 2 cups of fresh baby spinach. Continue to stir gently until the spinach has wilted completely into the soup, which should only take a minute or two.
Step 8: Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Ladle the hearty Tuscan white bean soup into bowls and serve warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this delicious, easy Tuscan white bean soup!

Expert Tips for the Best Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

Want to elevate your soup game? These tips will ensure your Tuscan white bean soup is absolutely perfect every time. I’ve learned a few tricks that make a big difference!

Don’t skip browning the Italian sausage well; it builds a foundation of deep flavor.
For an even richer soup, consider using a mix of Great Northern and cannellini beans.
Taste and adjust seasonings before serving – a little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference.
Letting the soup rest for 10 minutes off the heat before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully.

What’s the secret to perfect Tuscan white bean soup?

The real secret to an authentic Tuscan bean soup is building layers of flavor. Sautéing the aromatics well, toasting the tomato paste, and letting the soup simmer allows those delicious Tuscan flavors to really bloom. For more information on building flavor in cooking, check out this guide on homemade seasoning mixes.

Can I make this hearty white bean soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This hearty white bean soup is fantastic for meal prep. Make it a day or two in advance; the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated. You can find more make-ahead meal ideas for busy weeks.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Tuscan white bean soup?

Overcooking the vegetables is a common pitfall. Aim for tender but not mushy. Also, be sure to drain and rinse your canned beans well to avoid a starchy, cloudy broth. Finally, don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving!

Best Ways to Serve Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

This robust soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple accompaniments to enhance the experience. Serving it hot with crusty bread is practically a requirement for soaking up every last drop of that delicious broth! The white bean soup with Tuscan flavors truly shines when complemented by these ideas.

I love serving this hearty Tuscan white bean soup with slices of warm, crusty Italian bread. It’s perfect for dipping into that rich, savory broth. For a more complete meal, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness. You could also serve it alongside a small portion of pasta or a grilled cheese sandwich for an ultimate comfort food experience. For more easy family dinners, explore these quick and delicious meals.

Nutrition Facts for Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

This hearty Tuscan white bean soup is a nourishing choice, packed with flavor and goodness. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (approximately 1.5 cups):

Calories: 360 kcal
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 19g
Cholesterol: 48mg
Sodium: 935mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For general healthy eating advice, consider these foods to eat less of.

How to Store and Reheat Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

One of the best things about this hearty Tuscan white bean soup is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep. Once your delicious Italian white bean soup recipe is cooked, let it cool completely on the counter for about an hour. This is crucial for safe storage. Then, transfer the soup into airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will keep well for 3 to 4 days. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld!

If you want to store it for longer, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure your containers are freezer-safe. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Avoid boiling the soup when reheating to maintain its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

What is Tuscan white bean soup?

Tuscan white bean soup is a classic Italian dish, originating from the Tuscany region of Italy. It’s known for its rustic simplicity, typically featuring creamy white beans (like cannellini or Great Northern), broth, aromatic vegetables, and often herbs like rosemary or sage. My recipe adds Italian sausage for an extra layer of flavor, but the heart of it is that comforting bean and vegetable base, creating a truly satisfying meal.

Why make Tuscan white bean soup?

You should make this Tuscan white bean soup because it’s incredibly nourishing, deeply flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy healthy ingredients like beans and vegetables in a comforting, hearty dish. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping delicious lunches for the week. It truly embodies rustic Italian home cooking.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! To make this a vegan Tuscan white bean soup, simply omit the Italian sausage and heavy cream. You can substitute the chicken broth with a good quality vegetable broth. For added richness and protein, consider adding extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or even some cubed firm tofu or tempeh during the simmering stage.

What kind of beans are best for Tuscan white bean soup?

While this recipe uses Great Northern beans, cannellini beans are the most traditional choice for an authentic Tuscan bean soup. They have a wonderfully creamy texture and mild, slightly nutty flavor that holds up beautifully in soup. If you can find them, they are definitely worth using for that classic Italian white bean soup recipe feel.

Variations of Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup You Can Try

This hearty Tuscan white bean soup is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to get creative with these delicious variations!

Vegetarian Delight: For a delicious vegetarian Tuscan white bean soup, simply omit the Italian sausage. Sautéing the aromatics in a little olive oil and using vegetable broth will create a fantastic meat-free base. You can add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more substance.
Creamy Vegan Option: To make a truly satisfying vegan Tuscan white bean soup, skip the sausage and heavy cream. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace the cream with full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for a luscious, dairy-free finish.
Spicy Kick: If you love heat, ramp up the spice! Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a finely chopped fresh jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the garlic. A pinch of smoked paprika can also add a lovely depth and subtle smokiness.
Slow Cooker Simplicity: Adapt this recipe for your slow cooker! Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables and aromatics first (optional but recommended for flavor). Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker with the broth and beans. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring in the spinach and cream at the end.