Italian Sausage Soup

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Warm, comforting, and packed with bold flavors, Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate dish for a cozy night in. This hearty soup is loaded with savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and nutrient-rich greens, all simmered in a flavorful tomato broth. Every spoonful bursts with a perfect balance of spices, richness, and freshness, making it a go-to meal for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. Whether you prefer a spicy kick from hot Italian sausage or a milder, classic version, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. The combination of garlic, tomatoes, and herbs infuses the broth with deep, comforting flavors, while the addition of pasta makes it a satisfying one-pot meal. Serve it with crusty bread, and you have a dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.

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Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage Soup

• Bold and Savory Flavors – The Italian sausage brings rich, seasoned flavors to the soup, complemented by tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This soup stores well, making it an excellent choice for leftovers throughout the week.
• One-Pot Wonder – Everything cooks in one pot, meaning less cleanup and an easy cooking process.
• Customizable – You can use spicy or mild sausage, add different vegetables, or adjust the pasta type to your liking.
• Comfort Food at Its Best – Warm and filling, this soup is perfect for cold weather or when you need a comforting meal.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make a delicious Italian Sausage Soup, having the right tools can make all the difference in efficiency and ease. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven – A sturdy, heavy-bottomed pot ensures even cooking and allows flavors to develop as the soup simmers.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – Essential for chopping vegetables like onions, garlic, celery, and greens.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Helps break up the sausage as it browns and stirs the ingredients without damaging the pot.
• Ladle – Perfect for serving the soup without making a mess.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Ensures you get the right balance of broth, seasonings, and pasta.

Having these tools ready before you start cooking will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

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Preparation Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs will add more depth to the soup’s flavor compared to dried or pre-minced options.
• Brown the Sausage Well – Cooking the sausage until it develops a deep golden color enhances its taste and gives the soup a richer base.
• Drain Excess Fat – If your sausage is very greasy, drain some of the fat after browning to prevent an overly oily broth.
• Add Pasta Towards the End – This prevents it from becoming too soft and absorbing too much liquid.
• Adjust Consistency – If the soup is too thick, add extra broth or water. If too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
• Season Gradually – Start with a little salt and adjust after the soup has simmered to avoid over-seasoning.

These simple preparation steps will ensure that your Italian Sausage Soup turns out flavorful and well-balanced.

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Ingredients for This Italian Sausage Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a hearty and flavorful pot of Italian Sausage Soup:

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy) – Adds bold, savory flavor to the soup.
• 1 small onion, diced – Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the richness of the soup.
• 2 celery stalks, diced – Adds texture and a mild, earthy flavor.
• 1 zucchini, diced – Provides a slight sweetness and extra nutrients.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Creates a rich, tangy base.
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – Thickens the broth and enhances the tomato flavor.
• 4 cups chicken broth – Gives the soup a rich and savory foundation.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme for authentic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a bit of heat if using mild sausage.
• 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, shells, or elbow macaroni) – Makes the soup more filling.
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale – Adds color and nutrients.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances all the flavors.

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves – For a fragrant, fresh finish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty kick.
• Crusty bread or garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the broth.

Having these ingredients prepped and ready will make cooking this soup quick and easy.

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Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, drain it before proceeding.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion, garlic, and celery to the pot with the sausage. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

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Step 3: Build the Base

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine. Add the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

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Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together and deepen. Stir occasionally.

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Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add an extra splash of broth or water.

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Step 6: Add the Greens

Once the pasta is nearly done, stir in the fresh spinach or kale. Let it wilt for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

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Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty bread for a perfect meal.

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Notes

• Customize the Protein – While Italian sausage is the star, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a different twist.
• Make it Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a bit of Parmesan cheese at the end for a richer texture.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta or substitute with cooked rice or quinoa.
• Vegetable Variations – Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• Broth Adjustment – If the soup thickens too much over time, simply add more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Browning Step – Properly browning the sausage adds deep, savory flavor. Don’t rush this step!
• Overcooking the Pasta – Add pasta towards the end and cook just until al dente to prevent it from turning mushy.
• Not Draining Excess Fat – If your sausage is very greasy, drain some fat to avoid an overly oily soup.
• Underseasoning – Taste as you go and adjust seasoning, especially since the broth and sausage can vary in saltiness.
• Adding Greens Too Early – Stir in spinach or kale at the end to keep it vibrant and fresh instead of overcooked and mushy.
• Letting the Soup Sit Too Long with Pasta – If not serving immediately, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual bowls before serving. This prevents it from absorbing too much broth.

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What to Serve With Italian Sausage Soup?

A warm and hearty bowl of Italian Sausage Soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options to complete your meal:

1. Crusty Bread

A slice of warm, crusty bread or a fresh baguette is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

2. Garlic Bread

Buttery, garlicky bread adds extra flavor and crunch to complement the soup.

3. Caesar Salad

A crisp, refreshing Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Serve alongside a mix of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for an extra serving of veggies.

5. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A classic grilled cheese makes for an indulgent and comforting pairing with the savory soup.

6. Antipasto Platter

A small platter of olives, cured meats, cheese, and marinated vegetables creates an Italian-inspired side dish.

7. Bruschetta

Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze adds a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

8. Parmesan Crisps

For a low-carb option, enjoy crispy baked Parmesan chips as a crunchy alternative to bread.

These sides will enhance your meal and turn your Italian Sausage Soup into a full, satisfying dining experience.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed.

Freezing for Later

• If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.
• Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.

Make-Ahead Tip

For easy meal prep, cook the soup without the pasta and store them separately. This prevents the pasta from getting mushy when stored.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)**

(Approximate values based on a standard serving size)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg

These values may vary depending on the type of sausage, broth, and pasta used. Adjustments can be made to fit specific dietary needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes! While Italian sausage provides the best flavor, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative.

2. What’s the best pasta for this soup?

Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best as they hold up well in the broth without overpowering the dish.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients (except pasta and greens) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add pasta and greens in the last 20 minutes.

4. How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft?

For best results, cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl when serving. If cooking pasta in the soup, eat it fresh to prevent it from absorbing too much broth.

5. Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes! Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a spicier kick.

6. Is this soup gluten-free?

It can be! Use gluten-free pasta or swap it for rice or quinoa. Also, check that your sausage and broth are labeled gluten-free.

7. How can I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it simmer longer or mash some of the beans or vegetables. You can also stir in a little heavy cream or grated Parmesan.

8. Can I add beans to this soup?

Definitely! Cannellini beans or chickpeas make a great addition for extra protein and texture.

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Conclusion

Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect balance of bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting warmth. With its rich broth, tender pasta, and savory sausage, it’s a meal that satisfies every craving. Whether you enjoy it fresh off the stove or as a make-ahead meal, this soup is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. Pair it with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!

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