Easy Crockpot White Bean and Sausage Stew Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To add a touch of brightness to the final dish, consider stirring in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of fresh chopped parsley right before serving. This small addition can help lift the savory flavors of the sausage and beans, providing a balanced contrast to the richness of the smoked meat.

If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a small portion of the beans against the side of the slow cooker during the last thirty minutes of cooking. This releases extra starch into the broth, naturally thickening the consistency without the need for flour or other additives, creating a more rustic, hearty texture.

Variations

• Spicy Sausage Stew: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during the assembly phase to introduce a pleasant heat that cuts through the richness of the sausage.
• Vegetable-Packed Stew: Incorporate two cups of chopped kale or spinach during the final thirty minutes of cooking to add color and texture to the stew without altering the cooking time.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the stew reaches 165°F (74°C), or microwave until steaming hot.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them into airtight containers.

Proper cooling is essential for safety, so do not leave the pot on the counter for an extended period. Once cooled, store the containers in the refrigerator to maintain the quality and safety of the stew for several days.

This stew is an excellent candidate for making ahead, as the flavors often deepen and improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight.

Prepare the dish as instructed, let it cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until it is piping hot throughout.

Serving ideas

Serve this stew in deep bowls to best retain its heat and capture the savory broth. It pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty artisan bread or warm garlic toast, which are perfect for dipping.

A light side salad with a vinegar-based dressing can also provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty, savory nature of the stew.

For a more substantial meal, you can serve the stew over a bed of warm polenta or cooked grains like farro.

The neutral base of the grains complements the robust flavors of the kielbasa and cannellini beans, making it a versatile option for various occasions. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for a simple, elegant finish.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Easy Crockpot White Bean and Sausage Stew

Prep 5 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 5 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb kielbasa, sliced
• 2 cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1. Place the sliced kielbasa into the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans on top of the sausage. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the bean layer.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4 hours until the stew is hot and flavors have melded. Ensure the internal temperature of the sausage reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Carefully remove the lid and stir the stew gently to combine any settled seasonings. Ladle the hot stew into individual serving bowls and serve immediately while piping hot.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

35 g

Fat

20 g

Fiber

8 g

Sugar

2 g

Sodium

950 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.