There’s just something about a steaming bowl of hearty italian sausage soup that wraps you in a warm hug, isn’t there? It’s the kind of meal that brings comfort and joy, with a rich depth of flavor from savory sausage, fresh veggies, and aromatic herbs. Trust me, every spoonful is a delightful dance of textures and tastes! I’ve spent countless evenings perfecting this recipe, inspired by my Italian roots and the cozy meals shared with family. This soup is not just a dish; it’s a tradition, a celebration of flavors that warms the heart and soul. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a comforting dinner, this Italian sausage soup is your go-to. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Let’s dive into this delicious experience together!
Ingredients for Italian Sausage Soup
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, packed
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
How to Prepare Italian Sausage Soup
Now that we’ve gathered all those lovely ingredients, let’s get cooking! This step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious pot of Italian sausage soup that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s jump right in!
Cooking the Sausage
First things first, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want it to brown nicely and be fully cooked through—it should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of fat after cooking, feel free to drain a bit off, but don’t go too crazy; that fat adds flavor!
Sautéing the Vegetables
Next, let’s add some flavor! Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them together for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen will start smelling amazing at this point!
Adding Liquids and Seasoning
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!), carrots, celery, and sprinkle in that aromatic Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir and season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic starts happening!
Simmering the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cover the pot and let it gently bubble away for about 20 minutes. This simmering time is key—it allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully!
Cooking the Pasta and Spinach
Alright, we’re almost there! Add the pasta to the pot and cook until it’s tender, usually about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta you’re using. Finally, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts down—this should only take a minute or two. And voila! Your hearty Italian sausage soup is ready to be served hot and enjoyed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling: This Italian sausage soup is a true comfort dish that’ll leave you feeling satisfied and warm, perfect for those chilly nights.
- Packed with flavor: With the robust flavors of savory sausage, fresh veggies, and Italian herbs, every spoonful is a delicious experience you won’t forget.
- Quick and easy to prepare: In just about 40 minutes, you can whip up this scrumptious soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by.
- Versatile with vegetable options: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, whether it’s zucchini, bell peppers, or even some beans—make it your own!
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone at the table can enjoy a hearty bowl of goodness without worry.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail this Italian sausage soup! Here are some of my favorite tips for optimal results that will take your soup to the next level:
- Use fresh ingredients: The fresher your veggies and herbs, the more vibrant and flavorful your soup will be. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
- Adjust spice levels: If you like a little kick, go for hot Italian sausage, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. On the flip side, if you prefer milder flavors, stick with sweet sausage.
- Let it rest: If you have the time, allow your soup to sit for about 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors deepen and meld together beautifully.
- Don’t skip the salt: Taste and season throughout the cooking process. Adjusting salt at the end can often lead to under-seasoned soup, so sprinkle as you go!
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add a bay leaf while simmering or finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a hearty bowl of this delicious Italian sausage soup. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 15g
So, there you have it! This soup not only warms your heart but also provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and flavor. Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big pot of this delicious Italian sausage soup and want to save some for later—great thinking! Proper storage will keep those flavors intact and make for an easy meal down the road. Here’s how to do it:
Let the soup cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, so don’t worry if you can’t finish it all right away! Just make sure to seal it well to keep out unwanted air and odors.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover soup, simply pour it into a pot and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally, and let it warm up gently until it’s piping hot. If it seems a bit thick after sitting in the fridge, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. And voila! You’ve got a comforting meal ready to go in no time!
FAQ About Italian Sausage Soup
Got questions? No problem! Here are some common queries I get about this hearty Italian sausage soup, along with my best answers to help you out:
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a fantastic substitute if you want a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly milder, so you might want to boost the seasoning a bit.
What can I substitute for pasta?
If you’re looking for a pasta alternative, try using zucchini noodles, riced cauliflower, or even quinoa! Each of these options adds a unique twist and keeps the soup nice and hearty.
How spicy is this soup?
The spice level really depends on the type of Italian sausage you choose. Mild sausage will give you a gentler flavor, while hot sausage will pack a punch. You can always adjust the spice by adding red pepper flakes or using a different sausage type!
Can I freeze leftover soup?
Yes, you can! Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative! This soup is incredibly versatile. You could add bell peppers, zucchini, green beans, or even some kale. Just remember that heartier veggies may need a little longer to cook, so adjust your timing accordingly!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious Italian sausage soup ready to go, let’s talk about how to make your meal truly special! There are so many delightful pairings that complement this hearty soup perfectly. Here are some of my favorites:
- Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a warm, crusty loaf of Italian bread or a baguette for dipping! It’s like a match made in heaven—scoop up that soup with each bite!
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the soup. Try mixing arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta for a refreshing crunch.
- Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of your soup adds a lovely salty finish that enhances the flavors beautifully. Trust me, it’s a must!
- Garlic Bread: If you’re feeling a little indulgent, serve some buttery garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth!
- Wine Pairing: Don’t forget about a nice glass of red wine! A Chianti or Merlot pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the soup and makes for a lovely dining experience.
With these pairing ideas, you’ll turn your Italian sausage soup into a memorable meal that friends and family will rave about! Enjoy every delicious moment!
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Italian Sausage Soup: 5 Steps to Comforting Happiness
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty Italian sausage soup packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 cup pasta
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until onion is translucent.
- Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, and Italian seasoning.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add pasta and cook until tender.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by using mild or hot sausage.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you like.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: italian sausage soup, hearty soup, comfort food
