Dive into the hearty comfort of Michigan Beans and Sausage, a soul-warming dish that combines smoky sausage, tender navy beans, and a rich tomato-based sauce packed with layers of flavor. This one-pot wonder starts with caramelized onions and garlic, enhanced by a perfect blend of paprika, mustard, and a touch of sweet brown sugar for balance. Simmered with chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, the result is a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet medley that's as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Ready in under an hour, this crowd-pleasing meal pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a crisp side salad, making it a comforting and versatile option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Slice the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Peel and finely dice the onion. Mince the garlic cloves.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and cook for 4-5 minutes, flipping occasionally, until browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and translucent.
Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices and develop the tomato paste's flavor.
Add the navy beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine.
Return the browned sausage to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the lid and taste the sauce. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar, if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Pair with warm bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Calories |
2073 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 169.9 g | 218% | |
| Saturated Fat | 55.5 g | 278% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 222 mg | 74% | |
| Sodium | 7466 mg | 325% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 63.9 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.0 g | 54% | |
| Total Sugars | 36.5 g | ||
| Protein | 62.8 g | 126% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 353 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 10.3 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 2816 mg | 60% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.