Nothing brings the warmth of a Mediterranean kitchen into your home quite like this Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe. With smoky sausage, tender beans, and a harmonious blend of classic Greek flavors simmered together, this dish delivers comfort in every bite. No matter the season, it’s a go-to for anyone craving a hearty, rustic meal that comes together with ease but never sacrifices on taste. Enjoy all the best flavors of Greece in under an hour, thanks to this family-friendly favorite that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe lies in its straightforward, nourishing ingredients. Each component has its own special role, whether it’s building depth and flavor, creating hearty texture, or adding that pop of inviting color classic to Mediterranean dishes.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): The base of the dish, lending richness and a hint of fruitiness that’s essential in Greek cooking.
- Greek sausage (loukaniko) or smoked sausage (1 lb), sliced: Brings bold, smoky, and subtly citrusy flavor; loukaniko offers true authenticity but any quality smoked sausage works well.
- Onion, chopped (1 medium): Provides sweetness and depth as it softens and melds into the sauce.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): A classic aromatic that’s absolutely indispensable for a savory Mediterranean punch.
- Carrot, diced (1): Adds subtle sweetness and beautiful color that play up the flavors of the tomatoes and sausage.
- Celery stalk, diced (1): Brings an herbaceous crunch, supporting the base of the stew and balancing richness.
- Cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (1 can, 15 oz): The heart of the dish, making it creamy, filling, and protein-packed—plus they soak up every bit of the sauce.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz): Provide bright acidity and a saucy base that ties everything together.
- Tomato sauce (1/2 cup): Adds luscious body and intensifies the tomato flavor for a perfect stew texture.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Infuses the stew with savory notes and keeps it delightfully saucy.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): The definitive Greek herb, bringing earthy undertones and aroma.
- Dried thyme (1/2 tsp): Lends subtle warmth and complexity to each spoonful.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): For those who like a gentle kick—just a touch lights up all the flavors.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances and enhances every ingredient; adjust to taste.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Offers mild heat and aroma that elevates the stew.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tbsp): The finishing touch for freshness and vibrant color right before serving.
How to Make Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add your sliced sausage in a single layer and cook until both sides are richly browned, which should take around five minutes. Use a slotted spoon to lift the sausage out and set it aside—you’ll add it back in later for maximum flavor without overcooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
With your sausage removed, toss in the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté these for about five minutes until they’re softened and your kitchen smells amazing. Once those veggies are tender, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one minute more—don’t let it burn, just let it become fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Tomato Base
Now’s the time to pour in your diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom, and bring it all to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about ten minutes so the flavors really start mingling.
Step 4: Add Beans and Sausage, Then Simmer
Stir in the cannellini beans along with the browned sausage you set aside earlier. Turn the heat to low and let the stew simmer gently for fifteen minutes. This step lets the sausage season the whole dish with its smoky depth, while the beans become ultra creamy and everything melds into a seriously irresistible comfort meal.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
When your Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe is piping hot and the flavors have all come together, sprinkle everything with the chopped fresh parsley. This last touch adds a burst of freshness and color, signaling that it’s ready to be ladled into bowls and devoured.
How to Serve Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe
Garnishes
This dish shines with something simple but special on top—think a sprinkle of more fresh parsley, a few grinds of black pepper, or even a little crumbled feta for creaminess. A drizzle of fruity olive oil or a squeeze of lemon brings the flavors even more to life and adds a gorgeous sheen.
Side Dishes
Warm, crusty bread is practically a requirement for sopping up every delicious bit of sauce from your Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe. You could also spoon it over fluffy white rice or a bed of quinoa to turn it into a heartier feast. A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives is a classic pairing that brightens up the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, try spooning the stew into small bowls or cups for a rustic appetizer that lets people mingle while eating. For lunchboxes, pack it in reusable containers alongside bread or rice. And for a party platter, serve the stew as part of a Mediterranean spread with olives, hummus, and pita chips.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any of this Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe left (which is rare in many households!), simply let it cool to room temperature then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to three days and the flavors only get better.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well, making it a lifesaver for busy days. Place leftovers in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, minimizing air to prevent freezer burn. It’s good in the freezer for up to two months and makes for easy meal prep or quick dinners down the line.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place leftovers in a pot over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the stew has thickened too much. Stir occasionally and heat through until piping hot. You can also use the microwave, reheating in intervals and stirring in between for even warmth.
FAQs
What if I can’t find loukaniko sausage?
No loukaniko? No problem! Try any quality smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even chorizo. Loukaniko provides a signature citrus and herb flavor, but don’t let that keep you from making this Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe; substitutions are tasty and welcome!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. To convert the Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe to a vegetarian dish, skip the sausage and substitute with your favorite plant-based sausage or even roasted mushrooms for a hearty alternative. Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’re set!
Is it possible to use dry beans instead of canned?
You can! Just cook your dried cannellini beans fully before adding them to the recipe. This adds a little extra time, but results in fantastic texture and flavor in your Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe.
How spicy does it get with the red pepper flakes?
The small amount listed is just enough for a subtle, background warmth—definitely not overwhelming. If you like it fiery, feel free to increase the amount, or leave it out for a family-friendly stew.
Can I prepare Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe in advance?
Yes, it’s even better after a rest in the fridge! Prepare the whole dish, cool, and chill. The flavors deepen beautifully overnight. Just reheat as described above, and you’re ready for a stress-free, flavor-packed meal.
Final Thoughts
If ever there was a comfort food that delivers on flavor, ease, and pure Mediterranean joy, this is it. After making and sharing this Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe, it’s sure to become a regular in your home too. So roll up your sleeves, grab a crusty loaf, and let this Greek classic win you over—one hearty bowl at a time.
Print
Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Greek Sausage and Beans recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich, smoky flavors of Greek sausage with tender cannellini beans in a savory tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner that’s easy to make and full of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Greek sausage (loukaniko) or other smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Add onion, carrot, and celery to the pan and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in cannellini beans and browned sausage, reduce heat to low, and simmer for another 15 minutes until flavors meld.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Loukaniko sausage gives the dish its authentic Greek flavor, but you can substitute with smoked sausage or chorizo.
- Serve with warm crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheats well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 21 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
