for serving: shaved parmesan cheese and crusty bread for dippingregular or gluten-free
Instructions
Brown & Sauté: Bring a large Dutch Oven to medium high heat. Add 1 pound sweet Italian sausage and move around pan until cooked through. Add 2 tablespoons butter and let melt. Add onion, ¾ cup celery, and 2-3 teaspoons garlic. Move around pan until garlic become fragrant and the onions and celery soften, approx. 2-3 minutes.
Combine: Add 4 cups chicken broth, 30 ounces canned cannellini beans, 1 russet potato (cubed), ½ - 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup white wine, ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme, 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 bay leaf, 1 parmesan rind, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper, and pinch red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
Simmer: Bring to a simmer and then cover for 20-30 minutes. Add 2 cups fresh baby spinach and stir to combine. Taste and add any additional salt, red pepper flakes, as-desired.
Serve: Enjoy with shaved parmesan cheese and crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Storage: store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Parmesan Rind: I always try and keep old parmesan rinds frozen until I can use them in soup like this - but, if I don't have any I just buy a wedge of parmesan cheese, cut off the rind and use it in the soup and then shred the rest and use later for a different recipe!