A hearty Portuguese Bean Soup made with smoked sausage, kidney beans, vegetables, and elbow macaroni in a tomato-rich broth. A comforting classic with deep flavor and satisfying texture.
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups potatoes, diced
1½ cups cabbage, shredded
2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, rinsed
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
6 cups water or broth
1 cup elbow macaroni
1 bay leaf
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: 1 ham hock
Brown sausage in oil and set aside.
Sauté onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and bay leaf until soft.
Add potatoes, cabbage, beans, tomato sauce, broth, and ham hock if using. Simmer 30–35 minutes.
Add sausage and macaroni. Simmer 10–12 minutes more.
Season to taste. Remove bay leaf and ham hock. Serve hot.
Add water or broth if soup thickens upon sitting.
Add spinach or kale for more greens.
Use gluten-free pasta if needed.