Cozy Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage Recipe

Sometimes you just need a bowl of something warm and rustic that feels like it came from a countryside kitchen. This Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage satisfies that craving with its hearty textures and savory depth.

I often turn to this meal when I want greens but need something more substantial than a salad. It comes together quickly in one skillet, making cleanup easy while delivering big flavor.

What Makes This Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage a Keeper

The combination of creamy white beans and savory meat creates a satisfying balance that keeps you full. I love how the chard wilts down perfectly, absorbing all the juices in the pan without getting mushy.

You can have this dinner on the table in under thirty minutes, which is a lifesaver on busy evenings. It requires minimal chopping and uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

This dish is incredibly versatile, working just as well for a light lunch as it does for a cozy main course. Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage brings rustic charm to your table with almost zero effort.

If this dish hit the spot, you’ll want to try my Egg Zucchini Breakfast Muffin Sandwich next, plus the Easy Peach Butter Swim Biscuits delivers the same bold flavors.

Everything You Need for Perfect Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage

Here are the fresh items and pantry staples to gather:

• Turkey or Chicken Sausage: Use raw Italian-style sausage links with casings removed (beef sausage also works well).
• Swiss Chard: A large bunch with firm white or red stems and vibrant green leaves.
• Cannellini Beans: Two cans of white kidney beans, drained and rinsed well.
• Onion: A yellow or white onion provides the aromatic base.
• Garlic: Fresh cloves add essential pungency and aroma.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture to deglaze the pan and steam the greens.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For a gentle heat that cuts through the richness.
• Olive Oil: Used for browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables.
• Lemon: Fresh juice brightens up the earthy flavors at the end.
• Parmesan Cheese: Optional, but freshly grated cheese adds a salty finish.

My Method for Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage

Let’s get cooking!

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage meat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and chard stems to the pan, cooking until the onions are translucent and stems have softened, roughly 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for just 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add the drained beans and chicken broth, letting the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm the beans.
6. Fold in the torn chard leaves in batches, stirring until they are wilted and tender, about 3 minutes.
7. Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

My Best Tips for Perfect Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage

Don’t throw away the chard stems, as they add a wonderful crunch when sautéed along with the onions. I slice them thinly so they cook through at the same rate as the aromatics.

Make sure to rinse your cannellini beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and starchy liquid. This keeps the Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage broth clear and the flavors distinct.

If you want a creamier texture, mash a few of the beans against the side of the pan before adding the greens. This simple trick thickens the sauce naturally without needing any flour or dairy.

How I Like to Serve This Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage

A slice of crusty bread is essential for soaking up the savory pot liquor at the bottom of the bowl. I also like to grate fresh parmesan cheese over the top right before eating.

You can serve this Swiss Chard with Cannellini Beans and Sausage over polenta or pasta if you want to stretch the meal further. It reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep lunches throughout the week.