Description
Hearty 13-Bean Slow Cooker Minestrone with Sausage is thick, cozy, and packed with bold, comforting flavor. A colorful blend of beans simmers low and slow with savory sausage, vegetables, and Italian herbs for a filling soup that’s perfect for chilly nights and meal prep.
Ingredients
1 package (16 oz) 13-bean soup mix, rinsed
1 lb Italian sausage, sliced or crumbled
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
6 cups chicken or beef broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
Optional add-ins:
Fresh spinach or kale
Small pasta (added at the end)
Grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Brown sausage until cooked through, then transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the skillet and sauté briefly.
4. Transfer vegetables to the slow cooker.
5. Add rinsed 13-bean mix, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, and seasonings.
6. Stir well to combine.
7. Cover and cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours until beans are tender.
8. If adding greens, stir them in during the last 10 minutes.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
10. Serve hot with parmesan on top.
Notes
• Soak beans overnight for quicker cooking if desired.
• Soup thickens as it sits—add broth when reheating.
• Excellent for freezing and meal prep.