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Delicious Sausage and White Bean Stew in a skillet, garnished and ready to serve.

Easy Skillet Sausage and White Bean Stew

A comforting stew made with Italian sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and vibrant spinach, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1.5 tablespoons olive oil This rich oil will add a smooth base to the dish.
  • 4 links Italian sausage Juicy and flavorful, the sausage brings warmth and depth to your stew.
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced Sweet and aromatic, the onion provides a wonderful foundation for the stew.
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped Fragrant and zesty, garlic perfectly complements the other ingredients.
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme This herb imparts a refreshing earthy aroma.
Bean and Broth Ingredients
  • 2 cans 15-ounce cans of cannellini (white kidney) beans, drained and rinsed These creamy beans add heartiness and protein.
  • 2 cups chicken broth Rich and savory, it serves as a flavorful liquid base.
  • to taste Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper Essential for enhancing the flavor of your dish.
  • 5 ounces baby spinach Tender and vibrant, spinach adds a fresh burst of color and nutrition.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut your onion in half and slice each half into thin strips. Finely chop the garlic and rinse and drain the cannellini beans to remove excess sodium.
Cooking
  1. Heat ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the Italian sausages, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the sliced onion, garlic, and thyme sprig. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-8 minutes.
  3. Add the drained cannellini beans and chicken broth. Crush a few beans with a spoon to thicken the sauce and cook for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Slice the sausages into thin pieces and fold them back into the mix. Season with salt and pepper and fold in the spinach until wilted, about 2 minutes.
  5. Divide the stew among bowls, adding freshly ground pepper on top. Serve with whole-grain or crusty French bread.

Notes

Use fresh sausages for optimal flavor; try adding a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can enhance the savory profile.