Hearty Sausage and White Bean Skillet

Sausage and White Bean Skillet is a rich, satisfying one-pan meal that blends savory sausage, creamy white beans, and fresh greens. With a touch of aromatic herbs and a creamy cheese base, this dish is the perfect choice for a quick, comforting meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or relaxing weekends, it requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

• Nutritious and Hearty: Full of protein, fiber, and leafy greens for a well-balanced meal.
• Effortless One-Pan Meal: Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one skillet.
• Ready in Just 30 Minutes: Ideal for busy evenings or unexpected guests.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of herbs and sausage creates a savory, rich flavor.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable for dietary preferences or restrictions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille)
• Olive oil
• Shallot
• Garlic
• Fresh thyme
• Fresh sage
• Tuscan kale (or any preferred leafy greens)
• Canned cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• Low-sodium chicken broth
• Boursin cheese (garlic & fine herbs flavor)
• Sourdough bread (for croutons)
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper

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Directions

1. Prepare Croutons: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Toss cubed sourdough with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes or until they are golden and crisp. Set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the shallot and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, sage, and thyme and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Greens: Stir in the kale and cook for 2–3 minutes until the leaves are wilted.
5. Add Beans and Broth: Add the cannellini beans and chicken broth to the skillet. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to reduce slightly.
6. Stir in Cheese: Add the Boursin cheese and stir until it melts completely, forming a creamy sauce.
7. Finish the Dish: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Spoon the finished dish into bowls and top with crispy croutons.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Leafy Greens: Feel free to substitute the kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or another leafy green of your choice.
• Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or opt for a dairy-free alternative to maintain a creamy consistency.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for this dish as the dairy may separate and the greens can become mushy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Yes, if you need to substitute, use one-third of the amount of dried herbs as they are more concentrated.

What kind of sausage works best? Smoked sausages like kielbasa or andouille are ideal, but you can also use Italian sausage if preferred.

Can I use different beans? Certainly! Great Northern beans or navy beans are great alternatives to cannellini beans.

Is this dish spicy? It is not spicy unless you opt for spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes.

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, this dish stores well and reheats beautifully. Just wait to add the croutons until serving.

What’s a good substitute for Boursin cheese? Cream cheese mixed with garlic and herbs works as a suitable substitute.

How can I reduce bitterness in the greens? Remove any tough stems and cook the greens until tender to help mellow out any bitterness.

Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, simply omit the croutons or substitute with gluten-free bread to make it gluten-free.

What can I serve with this dish? A side of fresh green salad or roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully with this meal.

Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe. Just make sure to use a large skillet or cook in batches to prevent overcrowding.

Conclusion

Sausage and White Bean Skillet is the perfect meal when you’re looking for something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. With tender sausage, creamy beans, and vibrant greens, this dish is a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for busy days or relaxed weekends. This is a one-pan meal that you’ll want to return to time and time again.