Greens and Beans With Sausage Recipe for Easy Dinners

When it comes to hearty, comforting meals that are packed with flavor and nutrition, few dishes hit the spot quite like a classic greens and beans with sausage recipe. This dish brings together the earthiness of leafy greens, the creamy texture of beans, and the savory richness of sausage, creating a symphony of tastes that’s perfect for any season.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping a meal that can be enjoyed as leftovers, this recipe is both satisfying and straightforward to prepare.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this delicious dish—from the list of fresh ingredients to handy kitchen tools, step-by-step instructions, and tips to customize the recipe to your liking.

Plus, we’ll share serving suggestions and nutritional insights so you can enjoy this wholesome meal guilt-free. If you love recipes that balance comfort with healthful ingredients, this is one you won’t want to miss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This greens and beans with sausage recipe is a winner for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile—you can swap the greens or beans based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

The sausage adds a robust, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the mildness of the beans and the slight bitterness of the greens.

It’s also a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup and a quicker cooking process. Plus, it’s nutrient-dense, offering a good balance of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

This dish is perfect for those who want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Finally, it’s incredibly delicious and filling, making it ideal for dinner parties, family meals, or meal prepping for the week. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a favorite comfort food for so many!

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 large bunch of kale or collard greens, washed and chopped (about 6 cups)
• 2 cups cooked cannellini beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice of half a lemon (optional, to brighten flavors)
• Grated Parmesan cheese or vegan alternative, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or strainer (for rinsing beans and greens)
• Large bowl (optional, for prepping greens)

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into small pieces. Wash and chop the kale or collard greens into bite-sized pieces. Drain and rinse the cannellini beans if using canned. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Cook the sausage: Heat the olive oil in the large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
3. Sauté onions and garlic: In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. If you like a bit of heat, stir in the crushed red pepper flakes here.
4. Add the greens: Add the chopped kale or collard greens to the pan. It might seem like a lot at first, but the greens will quickly wilt down. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the greens to soften.
5. Combine beans and broth: Return the cooked sausage to the pan. Add the cannellini beans and pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and let it cook for 10 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld.
6. Season and finish: Taste and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish. Stir well and cook uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes if you want the broth to reduce slightly.
7. Serve: Spoon the greens, beans, and sausage into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or your favorite vegan cheese substitute. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For an even heartier meal, try adding diced potatoes or sweet potatoes when you add the broth. They’ll cook along with the greens and beans, adding extra texture and flavor.”

• Swap the sausage: Use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version, or plant-based sausage for a vegan twist.
• Greens options: Swiss chard, mustard greens, or spinach work wonderfully if kale or collards aren’t available.
• Beans variety: Navy beans, great northern beans, or black-eyed peas are great alternatives to cannellini beans.
• Make it spicy: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch.
• Gluten-free option: Ensure your sausage is gluten-free, and use vegetable broth to keep the recipe gluten-friendly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This greens and beans with sausage dish is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside a simple green salad or crusty garlic bread.

If you want a more filling meal, pair it with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice.

It also works great as a topping for toasted baguette slices for a rustic appetizer or even spooned over cooked pasta for a comforting dinner. Don’t forget to drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil or a splash of balsamic vinegar for added zest.

For more hearty and healthy meal ideas, check out these recipes:

• Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping
• Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious
• Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious

Conclusion

This greens and beans with sausage recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your craving for a wholesome, comforting meal. The combination of tender greens, creamy beans, and savory sausage creates a dish that feels both rustic and refined.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress.

By using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can bring a touch of warmth and nourishment to your table. Plus, its adaptability means you can customize it based on what you have in your pantry or fridge.

Give this recipe a try, and you may find it becoming a staple in your cooking rotation. Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site to keep your meals exciting and flavorful!

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