Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

A hearty and flavorful soup packed with Italian sausage, vegetables, and pasta in a rich tomato-based broth. This comforting dish is perfect for chilly nights or whenever you’re craving a bowl of something warm and satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love It

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together quickly for a delicious meal.
• Packed with Flavor: Savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, and a rich broth make every bite irresistible.
• Customizable: Easily add your favorite vegetables or swap in gluten-free pasta.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers for the next day’s lunch or dinner.

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What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Italian Sausage: 1 pound, casings removed (mild or spicy).
• Vegetables: 1 onion (diced), 3 garlic cloves (minced), 2 carrots (sliced), and 2 celery stalks (chopped).
• Canned Tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp for richness.
• Chicken Broth: 6 cups (or beef broth for a deeper flavor).
• Pasta: 1 cup of small pasta (like ditalini, orzo, or elbow).
• Spinach or Kale: 2 cups, roughly chopped.
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp for sautéing.
• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional).
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated, for garnish.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley or basil for garnish.

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How to Make Italian Sausage Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the Italian sausage.
2. Break it into small pieces with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove and set aside, leaving a bit of the grease for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

1. Add the tomato paste to the pot, stirring to coat the vegetables.
2. Pour in the canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and cooked sausage. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

1. Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes), until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Greens

1. Stir in the spinach or kale and let it wilt (about 2 minutes).
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side.

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Pro Tips

1. Add Beans: Stir in a can of cannellini or kidney beans for extra protein and texture.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or omit the pasta and add diced potatoes.
3. Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy version.
4. Spice It Up: Use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes for more heat.

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This Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a fresh salad or your favorite bread for a complete meal!