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Hearty One-Skillet Tuscan White Bean and Sausage Stew

one-skillet tuscan white bean and sausage stew - featured image

A velvety, rustic stew featuring tender white beans and crispy sausage slices, enriched with hearty greens and fragrant herbs, perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (spicy or sweet, depending on preference)
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups kale or Tuscan kale (cavolo nero), chopped (stems removed)
  • 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Chop the onion finely, mince the garlic, and wash and chop the kale into bite-sized pieces. Drain and rinse the cannellini beans thoroughly in a colander.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned with crispy edges. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  3. Lower heat to medium, add chopped onion to the skillet, and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent and soft, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in rosemary, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), letting the herbs bloom in the oil for about 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. Return the browned sausage to the skillet along with the rinsed beans. Stir to combine evenly. Let simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until stew thickens slightly and flavors meld.
  7. Stir in chopped kale and cook for another 3-5 minutes until kale softens but retains some bite.
  8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  9. Ladle stew into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

If stew is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen. If too thin, simmer longer. Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning sausage to ensure caramelized edges. Add kale last to keep it bright and tender. Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a subtle smoky flavor. Season at the end for best flavor balance.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tuscan stew, white bean stew, sausage stew, one-skillet recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, Italian sausage, kale stew