If you are craving something hearty, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying, this Sausage Stew Recipe is just what you need. Packed with smoky sausage, tender vegetables, savory broth, and creamy beans, this stew has a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or want to impress friends with a meal that’s both rustic and remarkable, this dish delivers every time. Plus, it’s wonderfully simple to make, letting the ingredients shine while filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key, and this recipe uses simple yet essential components that each contribute their own magic to the stew. From the smoky sausage that adds depth, to the fresh vegetables that brighten and balance, every item plays a vital role in creating this delicious meal.
- Smoked sausage (1 pound, sliced): Provides a smoky, savory base with plenty of satisfying meaty texture.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Perfect for sautéing the sausage and adding richness.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds creaminess and helps soften the vegetables perfectly.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Lends sweetness and depth as it browns.
- Celery (3 sticks, chopped): Offers a subtle crunch and earthiness to the flavor profile.
- Carrots (3 medium, peeled and thinly chopped): Bring natural sweetness and color to brighten the stew.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic kick.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrates the savory flavors and enriches the broth’s color.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a tangy umami boost that complements the sausage beautifully.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Brings fragrant herbs like oregano and basil for a classic touch.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Offers mild smoky warmth and lovely color.
- Beef broth (4 cups): Creates a rich, hearty base to bring all the ingredients together.
- Red bell pepper (1, chopped): Adds a pop of sweetness and vibrant red color.
- Russet potatoes (2, peeled and diced small): Make the stew satisfying and thick with tender bites that soak up flavors.
- Cannellini beans (1 can, drained): Provide creaminess and a nutritious touch.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and enhancing every element.
How to Make Sausage Stew Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start off by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and sauté it until it’s beautifully browned and crisp around the edges, which takes about 8 to 10 minutes. This caramelization is what gives your stew that deep, smoky flavor that hooks you right from the first bite. Once browned, scoop the sausage out and set it aside so it can keep its texture for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables
In the same pot, add the butter followed by the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cooking these in the flavorful drippings left behind by the sausage allows the vegetables to absorb all those wonderful meaty notes. Stir occasionally until the onions start to turn a light golden color, about 8 to 10 minutes. This slow cook draws out their natural sweetness, which beautifully balances the richness of the sausage.
Step 3: Infuse with Spices and Aromatics
Next, mix in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Let everything cook together for about a minute to allow the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to lightly caramelize. This step is where the layers of flavor start to deepen, setting the savory foundation your stew needs.
Step 4: Add Broth and Vegetables
Pour in the beef broth, then drop in the chopped red bell pepper, diced potatoes, and drained cannellini beans. Return the browned sausage to the pot. Turn up the heat to bring the stew to a lively boil. Watching the ingredients mingle in the bubbling broth is the exciting prelude to the final step of simmering.
Step 5: Simmer Until Perfectly Tender
Lower the heat to a robust simmer and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape while locking in warmth. Stir the stew every so often and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender enough to fall apart and the carrots soften nicely. This slow simmer helps all the flavors marry beautifully, creating a stew that’s rich, comforting, and full-bodied. If the liquid drops too low, feel free to add a little more broth or water as needed—remember, this dish isn’t supposed to be soupy but perfectly stew-like in consistency.
How to Serve Sausage Stew Recipe
Garnishes
While this sausage stew shines on its own, adding fresh garnishes can elevate it even further. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a fresh herbal brightness, while a dollop of sour cream or a shaving of sharp Parmesan introduces a creamy, tangy contrast that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
This stew is wonderfully filling but pairs perfectly with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up all that luscious broth. For a lighter side, serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. These options lighten the meal and provide a crisp, fresh counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving the stew inside hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only makes for a rustic, inviting presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor once the bread absorbs the savory juices. Alternatively, serve it over creamy polenta or buttered egg noodles for a comforting, hearty bowl that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your sausage stew, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually continue to meld overnight, making the stew taste even better the next day.
Freezing
This stew freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, then pack it into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some room for expansion.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of broth or water if the stew thickens too much during reheating. This meal tastes just as comforting the second time around!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this Sausage Stew Recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage gives a nice depth of flavor, you can substitute with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer. Just adjust the spices slightly to complement the sausage you choose.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You can replace the sausage with smoked tofu or hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Skip the butter or use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan. The beans and vegetables still provide plenty of substance and flavor.
How thick should the stew be?
The stew should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still have some liquid to keep it moist and hearty. If it feels too soupy, simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce it. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a little extra broth or water.
Can I prepare Sausage Stew Recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first as instructed, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
What’s the best way to season this stew to my taste?
Season towards the end of cooking with salt and freshly ground pepper, tasting as you go. Because the sausage and broth already add seasoning, it’s best to add salt gradually to avoid over-salting.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a bowl full of warm, hearty stew, and this Sausage Stew Recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every spoonful. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe offers a satisfying way to bring people together. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making it over and over again!
Print
Sausage Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Stew
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful sausage stew packed with smoked sausage, tender potatoes, vegetables, and white beans simmered in a savory tomato-infused broth. Perfect for a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 sticks celery, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped fairly thin
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 Russet potatoes, peeled and diced fairly small
- 1 (14 fluid ounce) can white (cannellini) beans, drained
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the sausage: Add the sausage pieces and olive oil to a pot and sauté over medium-high heat until crispy and nicely browned, about 8 to 10 minutes. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same pot, add the butter along with the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook over medium heat until the onions begin to lightly brown, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add flavorings: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Cook everything together for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Add liquids and veggies: Pour in the beef broth, then add the chopped red bell pepper, diced potatoes, drained white beans, and return the browned sausage to the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the stew: Reduce the heat to a rapid simmer. Cover the pot with the lid slightly open and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Continue until the potatoes are tender and the carrots have softened. Add additional broth or water in 1/2 cup increments as needed if the liquid gets too low, aiming for a stew consistency rather than a soup.
Notes
- Using smoked sausage adds a rich, savory flavor; you can substitute with kielbasa or other smoked sausages.
- Adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more broth or water during simmering according to your preference.
- For a spicier stew, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper when adding the paprika.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day.
