Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip: A Rich and Flavorful Appetizer

Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip is a savory, creamy appetizer bursting with rich flavors from hot Italian sausage, creamy cheese, and hearty cannellini beans. This dish brings together a perfect blend of spices and ingredients like spinach, garlic, and tomatoes, making it a perfect dip for parties, gatherings, or cozy evenings at home. Serve it with crispy crackers or toasted baguette slices, and your guests are sure to be impressed by its delicious depth and Mediterranean-inspired taste.

If you enjoy Mediterranean flavors, consider trying other appetizers such as this Spinach and Artichoke Dip or Tuscan White Bean Soup.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

The Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip is easy to make and perfect for entertaining. Here’s everything you need to prepare this delicious dish:

Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip: A Creamy, Savory Appetizer Recipe

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip is a rich and flavorful appetizer, featuring spicy Italian sausage, creamy cream cheese, fresh spinach, and hearty cannellini beans. This indulgent dip is seasoned with dried oregano, thyme, and garlic, creating a savory, aromatic experience that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Perfect for dipping with crackers or toasted French bread slices!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound bulk hot Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1 package (6 ounces) fresh baby spinach, coarsely chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup chopped seeded tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• Assorted crackers or toasted French bread baguette slices for serving

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Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:
   In a large skillet, cook the hot Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the sausage.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant.

3. Deglaze the Pan:
   Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) and cook for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and dried thyme.

4. Incorporate the Cream Cheese and Spinach:
   Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until it melts and becomes a smooth mixture. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.

5. Add the Beans and Tomatoes:
   Stir in the cannellini beans and chopped seeded tomatoes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the beans to heat through.

6. Add the Cheese:
   Stir in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, continuing to cook on low heat until the cheese melts and the dip is creamy and smooth.

7. Serve:
   Remove from heat and transfer the dip to a serving dish. Serve warm with assorted crackers or toasted French bread baguette slices for dipping.

Notes

• Make-Ahead: This dip can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
• Customization: For a milder dip, you can substitute mild Italian sausage or even ground turkey. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.
• Serving Suggestion: This dip pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or as part of a larger spread of appetizers for any party or gathering.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 cup of dip
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bulk hot Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then set the sausage aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add Wine or Broth: Pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth if you prefer) and scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze any flavorful browned bits. Stir in the dried oregano, salt, and dried thyme, then simmer for about 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly with the liquid in the skillet. Next, add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts.
5. Add the Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in the cannellini beans and chopped seeded tomatoes, mixing everything until well combined. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes to heat everything through.
6. Add the Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Continue to stir until the cheeses melt and create a creamy dip.
7. Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving dish and serve immediately with assorted crackers or toasted French bread baguette slices. Enjoy!

Advanced Techniques for Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip

While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, here are a few advanced techniques to take your Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip to the next level:

1. Use Fresh Herbs for Added Flavor

For a more vibrant flavor profile, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Fresh oregano and thyme will add a more intense and aromatic flavor, while fresh spinach will add a burst of color and texture.

2. Add a Spicy Kick

If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture or stir in a few tablespoons of hot sauce before serving. This will provide a spicy contrast to the creamy dip.

3. Make It a One-Pot Meal

For a heartier meal, you can make this dip into a full dish by stirring in some cooked pasta or roasted vegetables. A few handfuls of cooked penne or rigatoni will transform the dip into a Tuscan-inspired pasta dish.

4. Prepare It in Advance

If you’re preparing this dip for a party, make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave just before serving for a hassle-free, crowd-pleasing appetizer.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip can be stored and reheated for later use with proper care:

1. Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation from watering down the dip.

2. Reheating the Dip

To reheat, place the dip in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. You can also reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil, until warm.

3. Freezing the Dip

Although this dip is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Store the dip in a freezer-safe container and let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

You can easily adapt this Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip to suit various dietary needs. Here are some options:

1. Make It Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-based ingredients. Just make sure to serve it with gluten-free crackers or bread if you’re catering to guests with gluten sensitivities.

2. Dairy-Free Option

To make this dip dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives. Look for vegan cream cheese and shredded dairy-free mozzarella, which will give you a similar creamy texture and flavor without the dairy.

3. Lower Fat Option

For a lower-fat version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, part-skim mozzarella, and omit the sausage fat by draining it thoroughly. You can also use ground turkey sausage as a leaner alternative to hot Italian sausage.

4. Make It Vegetarian

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and replace it with more beans, such as additional cannellini beans or chickpeas, or even sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Add more spinach and herbs to make the dish even more flavorful.

FAQs About Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute the hot Italian sausage with mild sausage or even turkey sausage for a leaner option. For a different flavor, try chicken sausage or sausage with herbs like fennel or garlic.

2. Can I make this dip in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dip in a slow cooker! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

3. Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dip ahead of time by following the recipe through step 6, then covering and refrigerating it. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for a quick and easy appetizer.

4. Can I serve this dip with something other than bread or crackers?

Yes! While bread or crackers are traditional, you can also serve this dip with vegetable sticks, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers, for a lighter option. Tortilla chips also pair wonderfully with the dip.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip is a versatile and flavorful appetizer that combines savory sausage, creamy cheese, and hearty beans. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a crowd-pleasing dish at your next gathering. Whether you’re serving it with crispy crackers, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks, this dip is sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves Mediterranean-inspired flavors.