Are you looking for a delicious, satisfying, and surprisingly easy meal that the whole family will love? Look no further! This recipe for sausage and beans is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a truly memorable dish. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering. It's a hearty, flavorful meal that's packed with protein and fiber – the ultimate in comfort food. This recipe offers a fantastic blend of savory sausage and tender beans, resulting in a delicious dish that's both satisfying and healthy. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the kidney beans, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the sausage and beans are heated through and the flavors have melded beautifully, serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Sausage and Beans:
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the red pepper flakes.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor. Add them along with the onions.
- Use different beans: Experiment with different types of beans! Black beans, pinto beans, or even white navy beans would all work well in this recipe.
- Make it a one-pot meal: For an even easier meal, cook the sausage and vegetables in a slow cooker. Simply brown the sausage, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Variations:
- Tomato-based sauce: For a richer tomato flavor, add a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes along with the diced tomatoes.
- Creamy sausage and beans: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream at the end for a creamier texture.
- Lemon zest: A bit of lemon zest at the end brightens up the flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-12g
This easy recipe for sausage and beans is a perfect example of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas that don't compromise on flavor. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted to your liking, making it a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!