This hearty sausage stew is a satisfying one-pot meal packed with flavor and nutrition.
Loaded with protein-rich sausage, fiber-filled beans, and a variety of colorful vegetables, it’s both filling and wholesome.
Quick to prep and easy to cook, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering comfort without heavy fats or complicated steps.
Hearty Sausage Stew
Equipment
- 1 large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 celery sticks chopped
- 3 medium carrots peeled and thinly chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 2 Russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 14 oz can white beans, drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage: Start by slicing the smoked sausage into 1/2-inch thick pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and release maximum flavor. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sausage slices in a single layer. Sauté them for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop a golden-brown crust and a slightly crispy exterior. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside. This step locks in flavor and adds depth to the stew.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, reduce the heat slightly to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of butter, allowing it to melt completely. Then add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Stir frequently and cook for 8–10 minutes until the onions turn translucent and start to lightly caramelize. The vegetables should soften slightly, releasing their natural sweetness, which will form the flavorful base of the stew.
- Infuse with Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic to the pot along with 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir constantly for 1 minute to avoid burning. Next, mix in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Cook for an additional 30–60 seconds while stirring to allow the spices to bloom. This step enhances the aroma and ensures the stew has a well-rounded, savory depth.
- Combine Broth and Vegetables: Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Then add the chopped red bell pepper and diced Russet potatoes. Stir everything together so the ingredients are evenly distributed. The broth will start absorbing the flavors from the sautéed vegetables and seasonings, forming a rich, savory base for the stew.
- Reintroduce the Sausage and Beans: Return the browned sausage pieces to the pot. Add 1 drained can of white beans (such as cannellini) and gently stir to combine. The sausage and beans add protein and texture, balancing the soft vegetables with hearty, meaty bites.
- Bring to a Boil and Simmer: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a rapid simmer. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar to prevent too much liquid from evaporating while allowing steam to escape. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Let the stew cook for at least 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and starting to break apart, the carrots are soft, and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: Check the stew’s thickness. If it appears too thick, add additional broth or water 1/2 cup at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. The goal is a rich, hearty stew with well-balanced flavors.
- Rest and Serve: Once the vegetables are tender and the flavors fully developed, remove the pot from heat. Let the stew rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle. Serve hot in bowls, making sure each portion has a mix of sausage, beans, and vegetables. Garnish optionally with fresh herbs like parsley for an added burst of freshness and color.
- Meal Prep and Storage Tips: This stew stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed. Flavors often deepen after a day, making leftovers even more delicious.
Notes
- For quicker prep, slice the sausage first and set aside, then chop onions, carrots, and celery while the sausage cooks.
- Use a variety of smoked sausages like kielbasa or Ukrainian-style sausage for depth of flavor.
- If using raw sausages, remove the casings and crumble them before browning to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more broth or water gradually—this helps achieve your preferred consistency.
- This stew is versatile: add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or kale to increase fiber and nutrients.
Chef’s Secrets for Flavorful Stew
The key to a rich and aromatic sausage stew is layering flavors at each stage of cooking.
Browning the sausage first not only develops a caramelized, savory crust but also releases flavorful oils into the pot.
Sautéing the vegetables slowly in butter ensures natural sweetness, while blooming the spices with garlic and tomato paste intensifies the stew’s aroma.
Adding the beans and potatoes later preserves their texture while allowing them to soak up the hearty broth.
For an extra flavor boost, finish with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika—these small additions can elevate a simple stew into a deeply comforting, restaurant-quality dish.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Guests
This sausage stew is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can make it a complete meal.
Serve with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the savory broth.
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stew.
For a lighter twist, spoon the stew over cauliflower rice or mashed potatoes.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and freshness.
Leftovers can be served in bowls with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra layer of indulgence.
Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness
Store the sausage stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
To maintain the best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a small amount of broth if the stew has thickened too much.
For longer storage, this stew freezes beautifully.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to three months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and consider adding fresh herbs or a dash of seasoning to refresh the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use uncooked sausage instead?
Yes! If using raw sausage, remove the casings and crumble before browning. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains.
This method works well with Italian sausage or other fresh varieties, giving the stew a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
2. Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or extra beans for protein.
Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and increase the variety of vegetables to add depth and texture. Smoked paprika can help mimic the savory “meaty” flavor.
3. How do I thicken the stew if it’s too watery?
Simmer the stew uncovered for 5–10 minutes to reduce excess liquid. Alternatively, mash a few of the potatoes or beans in the pot to naturally thicken the broth without adding flour or cornstarch.
4. Can I prepare this stew ahead of time?
Yes! This stew actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prep the vegetables and slice the sausage in advance.
Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine during cooking for a quick, almost hands-off meal.
5. What are some good garnish or topping options?
Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives brighten the dish and add color. A light sprinkle of shredded cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dash of hot sauce can add extra flavor and make the stew even more satisfying.
Crusty bread on the side completes the meal perfectly.
