Easy Italian Sausage Soup

This Easy Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect comfort food for cozy nights or family gatherings. With just one pot and 10 minutes of prep time, you can create a hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s loaded with savory sausage, fresh veggies, and tender pasta, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation – With only 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients – The combination of Italian sausage and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously rich taste.
• One-Pot Wonder – Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.
• Customizable Dish – You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.
• Healthy Option – Packed with veggies and lean protein, this soup is both filling and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, here are some essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for cooking soups evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 3 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 2 ribs celery (finely chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (finely chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)

Seasonings

• 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1½ teaspoons salt

Broth and Pasta

• 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1½ cups dry ditalini pasta

Fresh Greens

• 1 cup fresh, chopped spinach

Optional Garnish

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Easy Italian Sausage Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Vegetables

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook and stir the sausage, carrots, celery, onion, and bell pepper over medium-high heat until the sausage is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Add the broth to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot well to remove any stuck-on bits that add depth of flavor.

Step 4: Simmer the Vegetables

Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are nearly tender. Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the pasta. Cover again and continue cooking for about 10 minutes, stirring often until the pasta is cooked al dente.

Step 6: Add Spinach

Stir in the spinach. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. If you like, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Enjoy this comforting bowl of Easy Italian Sausage Soup that brings warmth to any table!

How to Serve Easy Italian Sausage Soup

Serving Easy Italian Sausage Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple additions. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping into the soup, adding a satisfying texture.

Add a Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup beautifully.

Offer Cheese Options

• Grated Parmesan: Provide freshly grated Parmesan cheese for guests to add to their bowls for extra creaminess.

Create a Build-Your-Own Bar

• Toppings Station: Set up toppings like croutons, chili flakes, and olives so everyone can customize their soup.

Serve with Rice or Quinoa

• Nutty Quinoa: Adding cooked quinoa or rice can make this dish more filling while adding nutritional value.

How to Perfect Easy Italian Sausage Soup

Perfecting Easy Italian Sausage Soup is all about enhancing flavors and ensuring the best texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve a delicious result.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible to maximize flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices based on your preference.
• Stir Frequently: Stirring helps prevent pasta from sticking together and ensures even cooking.
• Control Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your pasta; overcooked pasta can turn mushy in soup.
• Let it Rest: Allow the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together.
• Make it Ahead: Prepare in advance and store in the fridge overnight for even richer flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Italian Sausage Soup

Pairing side dishes with Easy Italian Sausage Soup can enhance the dining experience. Here are some perfect accompaniments:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess, balancing the soup’s richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring an earthy flavor that complements the soup well.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and herbs make a hearty side option.
6. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks are fun to munch on alongside your warm bowl of soup.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the savory soup.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Lightly fried zucchini fritters offer a crispy texture that’s delightful with each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Italian Sausage Soup can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the sausage and vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always cook them until golden for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring Vegetable Sizes: Cutting vegetables unevenly can result in inconsistent cooking. Chop them into similar sizes for even tenderness.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Adding pasta too early or cooking it too long can make it mushy. Stir it in last and check for al dente doneness.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Every broth varies in saltiness. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or vegetables can slow down cooking time. Use room temperature ingredients for quicker results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Easy Italian Sausage Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Easy Italian Sausage Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until warmed thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Italian Sausage Soup.

What can I substitute for Italian sausage?

You can use ground chicken or turkey as a lighter option while still enjoying great flavors.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include any seasonal veggies like zucchini or green beans for added nutrition.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Is Easy Italian Sausage Soup good for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and tastes even better after the flavors meld together overnight.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Italian Sausage Soup is not only quick to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrients. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect any night of the week!

Print

Easy Italian Sausage Soup

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

This Easy Italian Sausage Soup is your go-to comfort food that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings, this hearty soup is packed with flavorful ground sausage, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta. With just one pot and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal that everyone will love. It’s also highly customizable; feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying dish for entertaining guests, this soup fits the bill perfectly.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground chicken sausage
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 ribs celery, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1½ cups dry ditalini pasta
• 1 cup fresh spinach

Instructions

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground chicken sausage along with carrots, celery, onion, and bell pepper until the sausage is cooked through and onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Stir in garlic and seasonings; cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits.
4. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes until veggies are nearly tender.
5. Stir in ditalini pasta; cover again and cook for about 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
6. Add fresh spinach; taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor depth, consider using homemade broth if available. Feel free to include seasonal vegetables like zucchini or green beans. Use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.