Slow Cooker Sausage & Bean soup

 https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a58390/slow-cooker-sausage-and-white-bean-soup-recipe/

Ingredients

• 4 

  precooked sausages, such as andouille, sliced

• 2 

  (15-oz.) cans white beans (not drained/rinsed)

• 2 

  cloves garlic, minced

• 1 

  onion, finely chopped

• 3 

  medium carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 

  celery stalks, sliced

• Rind from Parmesan cheese, optional

• 2 

  sprigs fresh thyme

• 2 

  bay leaves

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 2 cups 

  low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 c. 

  water

• 1/2 lb. Swiss chard, 

  cut into bite-sized pieces

• Freshly grated Parmesan or sourdough croutons, for serving

Directions

• 1. Step 1 In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat sausage and cook until golden on both sides, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove and place in slow cooker. 
  2. Step 2Combine all ingredients through water (not Swiss chard) & stir to combine. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. 
  3. Step 3Stir in chard and cook 10 to 15 minutes more on high, or until it is completely wilted. Remove bay leaf and thyme. If using Parmesan rind, remove it, chop it into small pieces, & return to pot. 
  4. Step 4Top with freshly grated Parmesan or croutons before serving.