Easy Italian Sausage Soup

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Easy Italian Sausage Soup

This Easy Italian Sausage Soup is a perfect dish for cozy nights or busy weeknights. It’s a one-pot meal that combines flavorful Italian sausage with a variety of fresh vegetables and al dente pasta. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also appeals to family members of all ages, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or quick dinners at home.

Easy Italian Sausage Soup
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this soup fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot makes cleanup a breeze, saving you time and effort.
  • Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian sausage and fresh veggies creates a rich, satisfying taste that warms the soul.
  • Versatile Meal: This soup can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes to suit your preferences.
  • Healthy Comfort Food: Loaded with nutrients from the vegetables and lean protein from the sausage, it’s a wholesome dinner option.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your kitchen tools to make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups as they provide even heat distribution and ample space for ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while allowing you to scrape the bottom of the pot effectively.
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Ingredients

To make this delicious Easy Italian Sausage Soup, gather the following 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)

For Seasoning and Broth

  • 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth

For the Pasta and Greens

  • 1½ cups dry ditalini pasta
  • 1 cup fresh, chopped spinach
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Easy Italian Sausage Soup

Step 1: Cook 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: Incorporate Broth

Add the chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any stuck-on bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds depth to your soup’s flavor.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

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

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Stir in the dry ditalini pasta. Cover again and continue cooking for about 10 minutes until pasta is cooked al dente. Be sure to stir often to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in the fresh spinach. Taste your soup and adjust seasonings as necessary. If desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Italian Sausage Soup

This delicious Easy Italian Sausage Soup is not only hearty but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

  • Sourdough or Baguette – Serve slices of warm sourdough or a crispy baguette for dipping into the soup, adding a satisfying crunch.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

  • Basil or Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a vibrant touch and enhances the soup’s flavor profile.

Paired with a Simple Salad

  • Mixed Green Salad – A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup and add freshness to your meal.

With Cheese Toast

  • Cheddar or Mozzarella Toast – Melt cheese on toasted bread for an indulgent side that complements the savory flavors of the soup.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

  • Butter and Garlic Spread – Garlic bread adds flavor and texture, making it ideal for scooping up every last bit of the soup.

How to Perfect Easy Italian Sausage Soup

To ensure that your Easy Italian Sausage Soup is as delicious as possible, consider these helpful tips.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables contribute to better flavor and texture, making your soup more enjoyable.

  • Adjust Seasonings – Taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt and seasoning as needed for optimal flavor.

  • Cook Pasta Separately – For best results, cook ditalini pasta separately if you want leftovers; this prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.

  • Experiment with Spices – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat or a dash of lemon juice for brightness.

  • Let it Sit – Allowing the soup to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Italian Sausage Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Italian Sausage Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options.

  1. Garlic Bread – This classic side is perfect for soaking up every drop of flavorful broth.
  2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
  3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional flavors and nutrients to your meal.
  4. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze are a delightful addition.
  5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for a tasty appetizer.
  6. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses paired with crackers offers a lovely accompaniment that can be enjoyed alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Italian Sausage Soup, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

  • Skipping the browning step: Not browning the sausage and vegetables properly can result in a lack of flavor. Ensure you sauté them until golden for a richer taste.
  • Overcooking the pasta: If you let the pasta cook too long, it can turn mushy. Aim for al dente by checking it a minute or two before the suggested cooking time.
  • Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Sometimes, the soup may need more salt or other seasonings after cooking. Always taste before serving and adjust accordingly.
  • Using low-quality broth: A bland broth will lead to a lackluster soup. Opt for high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor impact.
  • Forgetting about freshness: Adding fresh spinach at the end is essential for vibrant color and nutrition. Don’t skip this step or add it too early.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store Easy Italian Sausage Soup in an airtight container.
  • It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Italian Sausage Soup

  • This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion.

Reheating Easy Italian Sausage Soup

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use turkey sausage instead of ground sausage?

Yes! Turkey sausage is a great alternative that still offers good flavor while being lower in fat.

How can I customize my Easy Italian Sausage Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or green beans, or swap out the pasta for quinoa or rice.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well and is perfect for meal prep since it tastes even better as it sits.

What can I serve with Easy Italian Sausage Soup?

A side of crusty bread or a simple salad pairs perfectly with this hearty soup.

Final Thoughts

Easy Italian Sausage Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various veggies or swap proteins based on your preferences. This one-pot meal makes weeknight dinners stress-free and satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy all its hearty flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Italian Sausage Soup

Easy Italian Sausage Soup


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6

Description

Easy Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting, one-pot meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This delightful soup features ground Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and tender pasta, making it a hit for family gatherings or busy weeknights. With only 10 minutes of prep time and packed with nutritious ingredients, this recipe ensures everyone leaves the table happy. The rich flavors meld beautifully as the soup simmers, creating a hearty dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Perfectly paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad, this Easy Italian Sausage Soup will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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, minced
  • 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1½ cups dry ditalini pasta
  • 1 cup fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground Italian sausage over medium-high heat along with the carrots, celery, onion, and bell pepper for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
  4. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables are nearly tender.
  5. Add dry ditalini pasta; cover again and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.
  6. Finally, stir in fresh spinach and adjust seasonings before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 330g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

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