Italian Sausage Soup

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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Italian Sausage Soup. Packed with rich flavors, hearty textures, and a touch of spice, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this soup delivers a perfect balance of savory sausage, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth.

A Hearty and Flavorful Italian Soup

Italian Sausage Soup is a delightful combination of bold flavors and nourishing ingredients. The savory sausage infuses the broth with deep, rich flavors, while tomatoes and herbs add a touch of brightness. Tender pasta soaks up all the goodness, creating a filling and satisfying dish. Each spoonful offers a taste of Italy, making it a family favorite.

Stay warm and indulge in this deliciously comforting soup, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a bowl of hearty goodness.

Ingredients for Italian Sausage Soup

To make this flavorful and hearty Italian Sausage Soup, you’ll need a combination of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully in a rich, savory broth.

• Italian Sausage – Choose either mild or spicy Italian sausage, depending on your preference. The sausage adds depth and bold flavors to the soup.
• Onion – A finely chopped onion provides a fragrant and flavorful base for the broth.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma and brings out the savory richness of the sausage.
• Diced Tomatoes – Canned diced tomatoes, preferably fire-roasted, add a slightly smoky depth and natural sweetness to the soup.
• Tomato Paste – A small amount of tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the broth.
• Chicken Broth – A good-quality broth creates a flavorful base for the soup. You can use homemade or store-bought.
• Pasta – Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells work best, as they absorb the broth while maintaining a satisfying bite.
• Spinach or Kale – Fresh greens add a pop of color and extra nutrients. Spinach will wilt quickly, while kale provides a slightly firmer texture.
• Italian Seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme enhances the authentic Italian flavor profile.
• Crushed Red Pepper (Optional) – If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper adds a nice spicy kick.
• Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top adds a salty, umami-rich finish.
• Olive Oil – A drizzle of olive oil helps sauté the aromatics and adds a smooth richness to the soup.

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How to Make Italian Sausage Soup

This Italian Sausage Soup is simple to prepare, yet it delivers incredible flavor in every spoonful. Follow these steps to create a delicious, homemade soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Once fully cooked, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed, then sauté the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to cook for a minute to deepen the flavor. Then, add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Return the cooked sausage to the pot and bring the soup back to a simmer. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add the Greens

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach or kale. Let it wilt into the soup for about 2 minutes. If you like extra heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for the perfect finishing touch.

How Long to Cook Italian Sausage Soup

The cooking time for this soup is fairly quick, making it an ideal meal for busy days. Here’s a general breakdown of how long each step takes:

• Browning the Sausage – 5-7 minutes
• Sautéing the Aromatics – 3-5 minutes
• Simmering the Broth – 10 minutes
• Cooking the Pasta – 8-10 minutes
• Wilting the Greens – 2 minutes

In total, this soup takes about 30-35 minutes to prepare from start to finish, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.

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How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, this soup stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Follow these simple storage tips to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator – Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pasta may absorb more broth over time, so you can add extra broth when reheating.
• Freezer – If you plan to freeze the soup, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it later when reheating. Store the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating – Warm the soup over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed. You can also microwave individual servings in 30-second intervals until heated through.

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Tips for Perfect Italian Sausage Soup

Here are a few key tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Use High-Quality Sausage – A flavorful sausage is the foundation of this soup. Opt for fresh Italian sausage from a butcher or a high-quality store brand.
• Adjust the Spice Level – If you love spicy food, use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes. For a milder version, stick with sweet Italian sausage.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Since the pasta will continue absorbing liquid as it sits, cook it al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Add the Greens at the End – Stir in spinach or kale just before serving to keep them vibrant and fresh.
• Make it Creamy – For a richer texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.

This Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it fresh or save some for later—it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again!

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