Perfect Hearty Sausage and Bean Stew

The Perfect Hearty Sausage and Bean Stew

The Hearty Sausage and Bean Stew has always been a family favorite. I remember the first time I made it; it was a chilly autumn evening, and I wanted something comforting and warm. This stew seemed like the perfect choice. I loved how the recipe called for smoky sausage, tender beans, and a mix of fresh vegetables. The dish promised not only delicious flavors but also a satisfying meal for everyone.

The Hearty Cooking Experience

Preparing this dish was an enjoyable experience. I started by soaking the navy beans overnight, ensuring they would cook evenly. The next day, I browned the smoked sausage in a large Dutch oven, filling the kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma. Adding chopped onions, green bell peppers, and celery to the pot brought a burst of color and fresh scent. When the garlic hit the hot pot, it was magical. Combining the sausage, beans, and seasonings, I let the stew simmer for over an hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Everybody’s Favorite

When the stew was finally ready, I served it over fluffy long grain rice. The meal was rich, with the beans tender and the sausage perfectly smoky. My family gathered around the table, eager to dig in. We topped our bowls with freshly chopped parsley and green onions, and a dash of hot sauce added the perfect kick. Everyone loved the hearty stew, and it quickly became a requested dish for family gatherings and cozy dinners at home. The hearty flavors and comforting warmth made it a beloved meal.

Nutritiously Delicious Meal

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Navy beans are a great source of protein and fiber, which help keep us full and support digestive health. The smoked sausage adds protein, and using a variety of fresh vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals. The bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, while the celery and onions add antioxidants and other nutrients. This stew is also dairy-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Enjoying this meal means savoring a hearty dish that’s good for the body and soul.

Chef’s Notes- Hearty Sausage and Bean Stew

• Bean Prep: Always soak your navy beans overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance their digestibility. If short on time, use the quick soak method: boil beans for 2 minutes, then let them sit for 1 hour off the heat.
• Sausage Selection: Opt for andouille sausage if you prefer a spicier stew, or smoked pork sausage for a milder flavor. Both add a robust smoky taste that’s key to this dish’s deep flavors.
• Layering Flavors: Start by sautéing your vegetables until they’re golden before adding the meat and beans. This step builds a flavor base that makes all the difference in the depth of the stew’s flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: If using dried herbs in place of fresh, remember the ratio of 1:3 (1 part dried to 3 parts fresh) as dried herbs are more concentrated. Adjust spices to taste, especially the cayenne pepper if you’re sensitive to heat.
• Serving Suggestions: Although this stew is hearty on its own, serving it over long-grain rice makes it a full meal. Adding a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the table can brighten flavors beautifully.

Hearty Sausage and Bean Stew

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Cajun and Creole, Southern RecipesDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Resting Time

10

minutes

Total time

2

hours 

Get ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort with this Hearty Sausage and Bean Stew! Packed with smoky sausage, tender beans, and a medley of fresh veggies, this dish is a flavor explosion. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a meal prep option, this stew will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it over fluffy long grain rice and add a dash of hot sauce for that extra kick. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• Beans and Sausage

• 2 pounds dried navy beans (Camellia brand recommended)

• 2 pounds smoked pork sausage or andouille sausage

• Vegetables

• 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped

• 2 green bell peppers, diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• Seasonings

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 2 bay leaves

• Herbs

• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 bunch green onions, sliced

• Serving

• Long grain rice (cooked as per package instructions)

• Hot sauce (Crystal, Tabasco, or Louisiana Hot Sauce)

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Beans: Substitute with black-eyed peas or pinto beans.

• Sausage: Use turkey sausage or a vegetarian sausage for a lighter option.

• Cayenne Pepper: Replace with paprika for less heat.

• Fresh Herbs: Use dried parsley and green onions if fresh is unavailable.

Directions

• Prepare Beans – Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water and soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours.
• Cook Sausage – In a large dutch oven over medium heat, cook the smoked sausage until browned on all sides (about 10 minutes). Remove and set aside.
• Sauté Vegetables – In the same pot, add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Combine Ingredients – Return the sausage to the pot along with the soaked beans. Add cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper to taste, and bay leaves. Pour in enough water to cover the beans by about an inch.
• Simmer Stew – Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 1.5 hours or until beans are tender.
• Finish with Herbs – Stir in the chopped parsley and green onions. Let the stew rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
• Serve – Spoon the stew over prepared long grain rice and serve with hot sauce on the side.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• dutch oven
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 450kcal
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Potassium: 800mg
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 5g
• Vitamin A: 15IU
• Vitamin C: 60mg
• Calcium: 10mg
• Iron: 25mg

FAQ- Hearty Sausage and Bean Stew

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can substitute dried beans with canned for convenience. Use about 4 cans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed. Note that cooking time will be shorter since canned beans are already cooked.

How do I make this stew vegetarian?

Substitute the sausage with a vegetarian sausage and use vegetable broth to add more flavor depth.

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?

Any large, heavy-bottomed pot will work as long as it distributes heat evenly and holds heat well. The key is to have a lid that seals in moisture and heat.

Can this stew be made in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown your sausage and sauté your vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

How can I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?

Remove a cup of the stew, mash the beans slightly, and stir it back in. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir into the stew, then let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.