Creamy Bean Soup with Kielbasa is a delicious dish that combines the smoky flavor of Kielbasa with the creamy richness of beans and a savory broth. It's the perfect choice for a cozy and satisfying meal, especially in cooler weather! For another tasty and hearty dish, try my White Bean Chicken Chili as well!
Ingredients & Substitutions:
- 1 pound of Kielbasa (or substitute with Andouille sausage, Mexican Chorizo, or other sausages)
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (or use salted butter and adjust the salt in the recipe)
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 4 cups of chicken broth (or substitute with chicken stock, adjusting the amount of salt)
- 3 cans (15 ounces each) of Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained
- Parsley and Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions:
1. If using pre-cooked Kielbasa, you can skip this step. Otherwise, brown the Kielbasa in a skillet or pan over medium heat. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots, and sauté until they become soft and slightly browned.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well, creating a roux. Cook for a minute or two to cook off the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
5. Add the Kielbasa and drained Great Northern beans to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer the soup for about 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the creamy bean soup hot, garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
How to Serve Creamy Bean Soup:
This soup can be complemented with various side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Some ideas for what to serve with creamy bean soup with Kielbasa include crusty bread, a green salad, or cornbread.
Can I Make Creamy Bean Soup Without Kielbasa?
Yes, you can definitely make creamy bean soup without Kielbasa. It will still be a delicious and hearty soup for those who prefer a meatless option.
Storing & Reheating Creamy Bean Soup:
To store the soup, allow it to cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to airtight containers or divide it into smaller portions for easy lunches. The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a saucepan on the stovetop before serving.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze creamy bean soup with Kielbasa. Once the soup has cooled completely, store it in freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion as the soup freezes. The frozen soup can stay good for 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator before reheating.
