As the cool breeze of an autumn evening drifts through the window, I often find myself longing for a comforting dish that warms both belly and soul. Enter my Hearty Bratwurst Soup with Cannellini Beans—a delightful creation that combines savory bratwurst sausage with vibrant vegetables in a creamy, rich broth. This recipe is not only a meal prep-friendly choice but also perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something heartwarming without the hassle. With its high protein content and the option for ingredient substitutions, you can easily tailor it to your pantry’s contents. Are you ready to dive into a bowl of deliciousness that will make your kitchen feel like home? Let’s get cooking! Why is this soup a must-try? Hearty Comfort: This bratwurst soup is perfect for chilly evenings, filling your home with the inviting aroma of savory sausage and fresh vegetables. Deliciously Creamy: The addition of half-and-half produces a velvety texture that coats each bite, making every spoonful a delight. Customizable: With flexible ingredient options like swapping potatoes or choosing between types of broth, it’s adaptable to your preferences—or whatever you have on hand. Meal Prep Friendly: Easily store leftovers in an airtight container for quick reheating, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. High Protein: Packed with bratwurst and cannellini beans, this soup offers a satisfying protein boost, ensuring it keeps you energized. Dive into the cozy embrace of this soup, and consider pairing it with hearty rye bread or soft pretzels for an even more satisfying meal! Bratwurst Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base • Olive Oil – Adds flavor and helps in sautéing; substitute with canola or vegetable oil if needed. • Bratwurst Sausage – Provides a savory, meaty base; remove casing and break into pieces, or use bulk sausage as a substitute. • Medium Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots are a great milder substitute. • Large Carrot – Brings sweetness and color; feel free to swap with two small carrots. • Celery Rib – Essential for the soup’s aromatic base; no need for substitutions here. • Garlic Cloves – Imparts robust flavor; garlic powder can be used in a pinch (1/4 teaspoon per clove). For Thickening and Flavor • Black Pepper – Enhances overall seasoning; freshly ground is ideal for best flavor. • All-purpose Flour – Helps thicken the soup; for gluten-free, consider cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. For the Liquid and Heartiness • Chicken Broth – The main liquid base; replace with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. • Potatoes – Adds creaminess and substance; russet potatoes work best, but Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great alternatives. • Cannellini Beans – Offers creaminess and protein; navy beans can be used instead if desired. • Half & Half or Whole Milk – Provides creaminess; omit for a dairy-free version or swap with coconut milk. • Salt – Enhances flavor at the end; adjust according to taste preferences. For Garnish and Extra Flavor • Chopped Parsley or Chives – For garnish; optional but adds a fresh touch. • Cheddar Cheese – An optional topping for extra richness and flavor; sprinkle on top before serving. Get ready to enjoy a cozy bowl of Bratwurst Soup that warms the heart and soul! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Bratwurst Soup Step 1: Brown the Bratwurst In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the bratwurst, breaking it into pieces with a spatula. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned and cooked through, emitting a savory aroma that fills the kitchen. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables Next, add one medium diced onion, one large diced carrot, and one finely chopped celery rib to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions become translucent and the vegetables are softened. You’ll see vibrant colors and a fragrant mix that sets the base for your bratwurst soup. Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue cooking for 1 minute, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic flavor. The mixture should become fragrant, signaling it’s time to build upon the delicious foundation you’ve created. Step 4: Thicken the Soup Base Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring well to coat the veggies and sausage. Cook the mixture for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning, until the flour is lightly golden. This step will help thicken your bratwurst soup into a creamy delight. Step 5: Add Chicken Broth Gradually pour in 4 cups of chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Stir well to incorporate everything, then bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 6: Incorporate Potatoes and Beans Add 2 cups of cubed russet potatoes and a can of rinsed cannellini beans to the pot. Increase the heat to bring it back to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low again. Cook for 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally and enjoying the delightful scents wafting through your kitchen. Step 7: Stir in Creamy Elements Remove the pot from heat and gently stir in 1 cup of half-and-half or whole milk for that extra creaminess that makes the bratwurst soup so comforting. Return the pot to low heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring to warm through and ensuring a smooth, velvety texture without boiling. Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serve Taste the bratwurst soup and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed, bringing all the flavors together. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or chives, and optionally topped with grated cheddar cheese for extra richness. Get ready to savor every comforting spoonful! Bratwurst Soup Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this bratwurst soup recipe and tweak it to suit your taste buds—you won’t regret it! Italian Sausage: Swap bratwurst for Italian sausage for a spicier, aromatic flavor that enhances the soup’s heartiness. Ground Turkey: For a lighter option, replace bratwurst with ground turkey and season with your favorite herbs and spices. Vegetarian Delight: Omit sausage altogether and add extra beans, or include sautéed mushrooms for a rich texture. Sweet Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet twist that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage and beans. Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free alternative, replace half-and-half with creamy coconut milk; this adds a tropical flair and richness. Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to amp up the heat level and add a fun kick to your soup! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the aromatic profile of your soup. Broth Choices: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, or use beef broth for a robust flavor that’ll keep you coming back for more. Now that you’ve got an array of delicious variations, grab your loved ones and dive into a warm bowl of comfort that celebrates your own unique twist on this delightful bratwurst soup! How to Store and Freeze Bratwurst Soup Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding broth as needed to adjust the consistency. Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy your bratwurst soup, reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a touch of broth can help restore creaminess. Make-Ahead Tip: This soup is perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy warm bowls of comfort throughout those busy days. Expert Tips for Bratwurst Soup Thickness Control: For a thicker bratwurst soup, mash a few cooked potatoes against the pot’s side to release starches, creating a creamier texture. Consistency Adjustment: If the soup becomes too thick while reheating, slowly add more broth until you reach your desired consistency without losing flavor. Gentle Stirring: Keep stirring gently as you simmer to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot, which enhances the creaminess of your bratwurst soup. Flavor Depth: Sauté vegetables until they’re just soft; this helps to build deeper flavors that will elevate your soup’s overall taste. Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. This bratwurst soup is versatile and forgiving! Make Ahead Options This Hearty Bratwurst Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the soup base (sans cream) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply brown the bratwursts and sauté the vegetables as instructed, then let the mixture cool before storing it in an airtight container. To maintain quality, avoid adding the cream until right before serving as this will ensure the soup remains velvety. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat the soup gently on the stovetop, stir in the half-and-half, and allow it to warm for a few minutes. This way, you’ll have a cozy, comforting meal ready with minimal effort! What to Serve with Hearty Bratwurst Soup? As you savor the creamy warmth of your bratwurst soup, consider these delightful pairings that will transform your meal into a homestyle feast. Hearty Rye Bread: This dense, flavorful bread pairs beautifully, soaking up the rich broth while adding a lovely chewiness to your meal. Crispy Soft Pretzels: With their satisfying crunch and soft inside, these pretzels offer a fun, buttery twist that complements your soup perfectly. Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy richness of the soup. Garlic Breadsticks: The warm, buttery garlic flavor brings a crunchy texture alongside your soup, making every bite more enjoyable. Apple Cider: Pair with a glass of sweet or spiced apple cider to accentuate the savory flavors of the bratwurst soup, while also refreshing your palate. Cheesy Cornbread: Moist and chewy, this cornbread with a hint of cheese will elevate your soup experience, providing a satisfying bite after every spoonful. Pickled Veggies: A side of tangy pickled vegetables offers a delightful zing that cuts through the creaminess of the soup, adding an unexpected crunch. Cinnamon Roll: For dessert, treat yourself to a warm cinnamon roll, whose sweet and spiced flavors provide a beautiful finish to your hearty meal. Hearty Bratwurst Soup Recipe FAQs What type of bratwurst is best for this soup? Absolutely, I recommend using fresh bratwurst sausages for the best flavor! Look for varieties that have a good balance of spices and fat to enhance the soup’s overall richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken bratwurst can also work well! How should I store leftovers of bratwurst soup? Store your hearty bratwurst soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore its creamy texture. Can bratwurst soup be frozen? Yes, you can freeze bratwurst soup for up to 3 months. Make sure it cools completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on low heat, stirring occasionally. If the creaminess isn’t quite right, add in a bit of broth to adjust! How do I know when the potatoes are tender enough? The potatoes should be fork-tender—this means they easily break apart when pierced with a fork, which usually takes about 15 minutes of simmering in the soup. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider mashing some against the pot’s side! Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind? Certainly! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider substituting with gluten-free flour for thickening, or use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Always check labels on ingredients like sausages and dairy for any allergens as well! What can I substitute if I can’t find cannellini beans? If cannellini beans aren’t available, navy beans are a great alternative! They offer similar creaminess and protein content, making your bratwurst soup just as hearty. You can also try using chickpeas for a different flavor profile—get creative! Creamy Bratwurst Soup for Cozy Nights In Savor the warmth of Bratwurst Soup with Cannellini Beans on chilly evenings, blending savory sausage and vibrant vegetables in a creamy broth. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SoupsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with canola or vegetable oil1 pound Bratwurst Sausage Remove casing and break into pieces1 medium Onion Diced; shallots can be used as a substitute1 large Carrot Diced; can use two small carrots1 stalk Celery Chopped3 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can substituteFor Thickening and Flavorto taste Black Pepper Freshly ground is best2 tablespoons All-purpose Flour Substitute with cornstarch for gluten-freeFor the Liquid and Heartiness4 cups Chicken Broth Replace with vegetable broth for vegetarian option2 cups Potatoes Cubed; russet preferred1 can Cannellini Beans Rinsed1 cup Half & Half or Whole Milk Can omit for dairy-freeto taste SaltFor Garnish and Extra Flavorto taste Chopped Parsley or Chives Optionalto taste Cheddar Cheese Optional topping Equipment Large Pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add bratwurst, breaking into pieces. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned.Add diced onion, carrot, and chopped celery. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent.Stir in minced garlic and black pepper to taste. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.Sprinkle in flour, stirring well. Cook for another minute until lightly golden.Gradually add chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 10 minutes.Add cubed potatoes and cannellini beans. Bring back to boil, then reduce heat again, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.Stir in half-and-half or whole milk, return to low heat for 3-5 minutes to warm through.Adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives, and optionally top with cheddar cheese. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 20gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesThis soup is meal prep-friendly and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
