If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that bridges rustic tradition and vibrant Mediterranean flavor, the Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe has your name written all over it. This dish is a symphony of smoky loukaniko sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and a tomato-rich sauce, all elevated by aromatic herbs and a dash of citrus. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly evening or feeding a table full of friends, the Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe delivers hearty satisfaction in every forkful, and best of all, it comes together effortlessly in one pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe plays a starring role, from the savory sausage to the bright burst of parsley. Gather these simple, wholesome staples and watch them transform into a colorful, flavor-packed meal in less than an hour.
- Olive oil: Adds rich flavor and helps brown the sausage to golden perfection.
- Greek sausage (loukaniko): The smoky, mildly spiced star of the dish; if you can’t find it, mild smoked sausage or kielbasa works beautifully.
- Onion: Provides a sweet, savory base for the sauce.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean aroma and warmth.
- Crushed tomatoes: Gives the sauce its luscious texture and tangy depth.
- Dried oregano: Offers earthy, unmistakably Greek notes.
- Dried thyme: Adds a subtle herbal complexity.
- Ground cinnamon: Just a pinch brings gentle warmth and a hint of the unexpected.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and highlighting all the flavors.
- Cannellini beans: Creamy, protein-rich, and perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
- Fresh parsley: Lends a pop of color and fresh, peppery brightness at the end.
- Lemon juice: A squeeze before serving lifts and balances the dish beautifully.
How to Make Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced loukaniko sausage and let it sizzle until both sides are deep golden and fragrant—about five minutes. This step creates that irresistible, caramelized flavor base that makes the Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe so special. Once browned, set the sausage aside, reserving all those savory juices in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same pan, toss in the chopped onion. Let it cook gently until it softens and turns translucent, about four minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, stirring constantly until your kitchen smells like a Mediterranean taverna. This quick sauté builds the aromatic foundation for the sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Add your crushed tomatoes directly into the pan, followed by the dried oregano, thyme, ground cinnamon, and a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken into a rich, savory blanket for your beans and sausage.
Step 4: Add Beans and Sausage
Return the browned sausage to the pan and add the drained cannellini beans. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another ten minutes. The beans soak up the herby, tomato-rich sauce, and the sausage infuses every bite with smoky goodness. You’ll see the dish come together with a beautiful, hearty texture and a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 5: Finish with Freshness
Right before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and squeeze in the juice of half a lemon. This last touch brightens the entire Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe, making every bite taste lively and balanced. Serve immediately while everything is piping hot and irresistibly fragrant.
How to Serve Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra fresh parsley or a handful of chopped green onions over the top. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a dusting of crumbled feta brings a lovely Mediterranean flair and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
This Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe begs for a companion like crusty bread—perfect for mopping up every bit of that luscious sauce. You can also serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a crisp Greek salad for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try spooning the sausage and beans into individual bowls for a casual, cozy dinner, or present it family-style in a rustic serving dish. For a fun twist, use it as a topping for baked potatoes or stuff it into warm pita pockets—your guests will be delighted by the fusion of textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish is a champion when it comes to leftovers. Let the Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the cooled sausage and beans into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. You can also microwave individual servings in a covered dish for a quick meal.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While loukaniko adds an authentic Greek touch, you can substitute with mild smoked sausage, kielbasa, or any other flavorful sausage you enjoy. Just aim for a sausage that has a bit of smokiness and isn’t overly spicy.
Are there vegetarian options for this Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe?
Yes! For a vegetarian twist, swap the sausage for your favorite plant-based sausage or add extra beans and some sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, satisfying alternative.
Can I make this recipe in advance for meal prep?
Definitely. This dish tastes even better after the flavors have had time to mingle, making it ideal for meal prep. Just store in the fridge and gently reheat when you’re ready to eat.
What kind of beans work best?
Cannellini beans are classic for their creamy texture and mild flavor, but you can also use navy beans, great northern beans, or even butter beans if that’s what you have on hand.
How spicy is this Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe?
It’s generally mild, relying on aromatic herbs rather than spice. If you like a kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicier sausage to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe enough—it’s cozy, satisfying, and packed with Mediterranean charm. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite at your table! Give it a try and let the warmth and flavor brighten your mealtime.
Print
Greek Sausage and Beans Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Greek Sausage and Beans recipe features loukaniko sausage cooked in a savory tomato sauce with aromatic herbs and spices. Tender cannellini beans add hearty texture and nutrition, while fresh parsley and lemon juice brighten the flavors. It’s a comforting Mediterranean one-pan meal perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Greek sausage (loukaniko), sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced loukaniko sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic: In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add dried oregano, dried thyme, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Combine sausage and beans: Return the browned sausage to the pan and add the drained cannellini beans. Simmer the mixture for another 10 minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld.
- Finish with fresh herbs and lemon: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish. Mix well, then serve warm.
Notes
- If loukaniko sausage is unavailable, substitute with mild smoked sausage or kielbasa.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or served over rice.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the tomato simmer step.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
