What exactly is swamp soup?

Swamp soup is a hearty Southern soup that combines white beans, smoked sausage (typically kielbasa or andouille), small pasta, and dark leafy greens like turnip greens or kale. The name comes from the appearance of the greens floating on top, which resembles a swamp. Despite the unappetizing name, it's an incredibly flavorful, comforting one-pot meal that's been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. Think of it as the Southern version of Italian pasta e fagioli, but with its own unique character from the smoked sausage and hearty greens.

Where did swamp soup originate?

The exact origins of swamp soup are somewhat mysterious, which is common with many traditional Southern recipes. It appears to have originated in the Southern United States, likely in rural communities where swamps were part of the natural landscape. The dish evolved from the practical need to create filling, affordable meals using accessible ingredients-canned or dried beans, preserved smoked meats, seasonal greens, and simple starches. Different regions have their own variations, and families have passed down their own versions through generations. What we do know is that it represents classic Southern resourcefulness and comfort food traditions, making hearty meals from humble ingredients.

What is the most delicious soup in the world?

While "most delicious" is entirely subjective and depends on personal taste, I can tell you that swamp soup holds its own against any soup I've ever made or tasted. The combination of smoky sausage, creamy beans, tender pasta, and earthy greens creates a depth of flavor that's genuinely special. That said, the world's soup repertoire is incredibly diverse-from French onion soup to Vietnamese pho, Japanese ramen to Italian minestrone. Each culture has developed soups that are perfectly suited to their ingredients, climate, and culinary traditions. The "best" soup is really the one that speaks to your palate and brings you comfort. For me, on a cold winter evening, swamp soup is definitely in the running for that title.

Is swamp soup good for you?

Swamp soup is actually quite nutritious, especially compared to many comfort food options. Each serving provides about 29g of protein, 12g of fiber, and significant amounts of vitamins A, C, and K from the greens. The white beans contribute plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and potassium, while supporting digestive health and keeping you feeling satisfied. The leafy greens add powerful antioxidants and essential nutrients. The main nutritional consideration is the sodium content (around 2048mg per serving), which comes largely from the chicken broth and smoked sausage. You can easily reduce this by using low-sodium broth and limiting added salt. At 567 calories per serving, it's a complete, balanced meal that provides sustained energy.

How To Make Swamp Soup Recipe? 5 Easy Steps In 45 Min

Name: Swamp Soup Recipe: Southern White Bean, Sausage, and Greens Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 5–6 servings
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 2 bunches turnip greens, stems and leaves separated and chopped (or kale, collard greens, or Swiss chard); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 3 ribs celery, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3/4 pound kielbasa or smoked sausage, diced; 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 ounces) crushed or diced tomatoes; 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium if desired); 1 cup water; 1 cup small pasta such as ditalini or orzo; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper, optional for serving

Description

This hearty swamp soup recipe combines creamy white beans, smoky kielbasa sausage, tender pasta, and nutritious turnip greens in a flavorful one-pot meal. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s the perfect comfort food for cold winter nights.

Ingredients

Scale

2 bunches turnip greens (or kale, collard greens, or Swiss chard)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small yellow onion, diced

3 ribs celery, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

3/4 pound kielbasa or smoked sausage, diced

2 (15-ounce) cans white beans (cannellini, Great Northern, or navy beans), drained and rinsed

1 (15-ounce) can crushed or diced tomatoes

6 cups chicken broth

1 cup water

1 cup small pasta (ditalini or orzo)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep your greens by separating stems from leaves. Finely dice the stems and set aside with aromatics. Roughly chop the leaves and set aside separately.

2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced turnip stems, onion, and celery. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 4 minutes until onions turn translucent.

3. Add minced garlic and diced kielbasa. Continue stirring for 3 minutes until sausage begins to brown and releases its oils.

4. Add drained white beans, tomatoes with juice, chicken broth, and water. Increase heat to high, cover, and bring to a simmer.

5. Once simmering, reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

6. Stir in pasta and chopped turnip leaves. Cook for 8-9 minutes (or according to pasta package directions for al dente), stirring occasionally.

7. Remove from heat. Stir in fresh parsley if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

8. Serve hot with crusty bread and enjoy this comforting Southern classic.

Notes

Storage: Store cooled soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Note that pasta will continue to absorb liquid and thicken over time. Add a splash of broth when reheating if needed.

Freezer: Undercook pasta slightly if planning to freeze. Freeze in portions for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Variations: Add 2-3 diced potatoes with the beans for extra heartiness. For a vegetarian version, omit sausage, double the beans, and add 1 tablespoon smoked paprika. For spicy version, use andouille sausage and add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper.

Substitutions: Any dark leafy greens work well (kale, collards, Swiss chard). Any smoked sausage can replace kielbasa. Use vegetable broth for vegetarian option.

Make Ahead: This soup actually tastes better the next day as flavors continue to develop. Perfect for meal prep.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 2 cups)
Calories: 567 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 2048mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 56g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 48mg

Keywords: swamp soup recipe, southern swamp soup, easy soup recipe, white bean soup, sausage soup, one pot soup, comfort food soup