Print

Cozy Tuscan White Bean and Sausage Stew

Tuscan White Bean and Sausage Stew - featured image

A hearty and comforting slow cooker stew combining smoky Italian sausage, creamy white beans, and fragrant Tuscan herbs for a warm, satisfying meal perfect for cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (sweet or mild)
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned but not fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the skillet with the sausage. Stir frequently until onions are translucent and vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic last and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
  4. Transfer the sausage and vegetable mixture into the slow cooker. Add the rinsed cannellini beans, 4 cups chicken broth, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, fresh rosemary, bay leaf, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
  6. Remove the bay leaf and rosemary sprigs. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed. Stir in chopped fresh parsley.
  7. Ladle the stew into warm bowls and serve immediately with crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Notes

Brown the sausage first to build flavor and prevent greasy stew. Use fresh garlic and rosemary for best aroma. Adjust seasoning gradually as slow cooking concentrates flavors. If stew is too thick near the end, add broth or water; if too thin, cook uncovered on high for 15-20 minutes to reduce liquid. Can be made in Instant Pot using sauté and pressure cook functions. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Tuscan stew, white bean stew, Italian sausage stew, slow cooker recipe, comfort food, easy stew, white beans, slow cooker dinner