Sausage Minestrone Soup

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables and savory sausage, this soup warms you up and satisfies your hunger. It’s an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prep, as it can easily be made in a slow cooker. The unique combination of ingredients elevates the classic minestrone flavors, making it a standout recipe that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly and can be made in one pot or a slow cooker, saving you time on cleanup.
• Packed with Flavor: The addition of Italian sausage and pesto gives this soup a depth of flavor that makes it irresistible.
• Nutritious and Filling: With plenty of vegetables and beans, this soup is not only satisfying but also loaded with nutrients.
• Versatile: You can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences, making it suitable for various tastes.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge and can be frozen, making it perfect for weekday meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with your Sausage Minestrone Soup, ensure you have the right tools at hand. Having these essential items will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A sturdy pot allows even cooking and provides enough space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Sausage Minestrone Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 16 ounces mild Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 & 1/2 cups celery (chopped)
• 1 & 1/2 cups carrots (chopped)
• 1 6 ounce can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 15 ounce can Italian style diced tomatoes
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 15 ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup zucchini (chopped)
• 1 cup yellow squash (chopped)
• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach
• basil pesto (to garnish)
• grated parmesan cheese (to garnish)

How to Make Sausage Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large soup pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium to medium-high heat. Drain the fat after browning to remove excess grease.

Step 2: Chop Vegetables

While the sausage is cooking, chop the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic into small pieces for even cooking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the tomato paste, chopped onions, celery, carrots, minced garlic, and dried oregano to the pot. Sauté these ingredients together for about five minutes until they become fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with the chicken broth. Turn up the heat to high until it boils.

Step 5: Simmer

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 30 to 45 minutes until all carrots are tender.

Step 6: Incorporate Remaining Ingredients

Stir in both cans of beans, zucchini, yellow squash, and dry pasta. Bring back to a boil before reducing to simmer again.

Step 7: Cook Pasta

Allow everything to simmer for another ten minutes until the pasta is cooked through. If you prefer a soupy texture, feel free to add additional chicken broth at this stage.

Step 8: Add Spinach

Turn off the heat and stir in baby spinach. You may chop it roughly if desired for easier eating!

Step 9: Serve

Let the soup sit for about five minutes for the spinach to wilt down before serving. Season with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 10: Garnish

Top each bowl with a teaspoon of basil pesto and freshly grated parmesan cheese before enjoying your warm bowl of Sausage Minestrone Soup!

How to Serve Sausage Minestrone Soup

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as an appetizer, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top to add freshness and color.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of chili flakes can enhance the flavor profile.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread adds a flavorful twist and complements the Italian flavors beautifully.

Serve with Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Offer grated Parmesan cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle on their soup.
• Mozzarella Pearls: Add small mozzarella balls for extra creaminess and texture.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast to the soup’s warmth.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Sausage Minestrone Soup

Perfecting your Sausage Minestrone Soup involves attention to detail and ingredient quality. Follow these tips for an outstanding result every time.

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh produce enhances flavor and texture, making your soup vibrant and delicious.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt; you can always add more later, especially since broth can be salty.
• Cook Pasta Separately: For better control over pasta texture, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Experiment with Broth: Try different types of broth (like vegetable or beef) to find your preferred flavor base.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Minestrone Soup

To complement your Sausage Minestrone Soup, consider these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal without overshadowing the main attraction.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for mopping up every last drop of soup.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil brings brightness to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and can be easily made alongside the soup.
4. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables can make for an impressive starter.
5. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes offer a comforting side that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
6. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a refreshing bite before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sausage Minestrone Soup, there are a few common mistakes to steer clear of to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using the wrong type of sausage can change the flavor dramatically. Stick to mild Italian chicken or turkey sausage for the best results.
• Bold overcooking veggies: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Add hearty vegetables like carrots and zucchini at different times to maintain texture.
• Bold neglecting seasonings: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to bland soup. Always sample your soup before serving and add salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
• Bold ignoring broth quality: Low-quality broth can affect the overall flavor of your soup. Use a good chicken broth or homemade stock for a richer taste.
• Bold skipping garnishes: Not garnishing can make your soup visually unappealing. A spoonful of pesto and some grated cheese adds both flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sausage Minestrone Soup

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

Reheating Sausage Minestrone Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sausage Minestrone Soup that might help you make this dish even better.

Can I use other types of sausage?

You can definitely use chicken, turkey, or beef sausage as alternatives. Each will bring its unique flavor profile to the soup.

What vegetables can I add to Sausage Minestrone Soup?

Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers, green beans, or kale. The more veggies, the better!

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add extra beans for protein.

Can I cook Sausage Minestrone Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Simply brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Minestrone Soup is not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can tailor it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors!

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Sausage Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Bursting with fresh vegetables, nutritious beans, and savory sausage, this comforting soup offers a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, it can easily be made in one pot or a slow cooker. Each spoonful is packed with vibrant flavors, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a wholesome yet delicious option. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with friends, this easy minestrone recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 ounces mild Italian sausage (chicken or turkey)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 & 1/2 cups celery (chopped)
• 1 & 1/2 cups carrots (chopped)
• 1 6 ounce can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 15 ounce can Italian style diced tomatoes
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 15 ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup zucchini (chopped)
• 1 cup yellow squash (chopped)
• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach
• basil pesto (to garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Chop onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Add them to the pot with tomato paste and oregano; sauté for about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let simmer for 30 to 45 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in beans, zucchini, yellow squash, and ditalini pasta; bring back to boil then reduce heat again.
6. Simmer for another 10 minutes until pasta is cooked.
7. Turn off heat and stir in baby spinach; let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
8. Garnish each bowl with basil pesto.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg