Name: Italian Sausage Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or rotini); 3 cups kale, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

I absolutely love a hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor and warmth. This Italian Sausage Soup is one of my go-to recipes for chilly evenings. It’s loaded with savory sausage, tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a rich tomato broth that will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or need something easy for meal prep, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

I find that this Italian Sausage Soup is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to a comforting meal after a long day. The balance of spices and the depth of flavor from the sausage combined with the fresh veggies makes every spoonful an experience. If you enjoy bold, comforting flavors, this recipe is just what you need!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage Soup

This soup has everything you need in a single bowl. It’s rich, hearty, and bursting with flavors that get better as they meld together. The sausage gives it a deliciously savory depth, while the vegetables add freshness and balance. The pasta makes it filling, ensuring that it’s a complete meal in itself. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a dish to impress guests. And the best part? It’s easy to make and can be customized to your taste.

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use for This Soup?

For the best flavor, I recommend using Italian sausage, as it’s perfectly seasoned with a combination of fennel, garlic, and red pepper flakes. You can opt for either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. Mild sausage will give you a more subtle, savory base, while spicy sausage will add a little extra kick to the soup. If you prefer, you can also use sausage links and remove the casings, or even substitute it with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.

Options for Substitutions

While the ingredients in this recipe work wonderfully together, there are a few substitutions you can make to suit your dietary preferences or to work with what you have on hand.

Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version, you can substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and add more vegetables, like mushrooms or lentils, to give the soup a hearty feel.
Pasta: If you’re avoiding gluten, you can easily swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta or even use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Greens: While kale is my go-to green for this soup, spinach or swiss chard also work well and offer a similar texture and color.
Broth: Feel free to switch the chicken broth for vegetable broth if you’re making a vegetarian version, or beef broth if you prefer a richer, deeper flavor.

With these options, you can make the soup fit your taste and dietary needs while still keeping the essence of the recipe intact.

Ingredients for this Italian Sausage Soup

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients that make this Italian Sausage Soup so flavorful:

Italian Sausage: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and a savory depth that complements the vegetables and broth.
Pasta: A small pasta like ditalini or rotini works perfectly to absorb the flavors of the soup, adding substance to each spoonful.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are great for their ease and consistency, providing a rich, tangy base for the broth.
Kale: Fresh kale adds a lovely texture and a healthy green element, balancing the richness of the sausage.
Carrots and Celery: These classic soup vegetables contribute sweetness and crunch, helping to create a balanced flavor profile.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatic ingredients build the base of the soup, providing savory, fragrant notes that bring everything together.
Chicken Broth: The liquid foundation that makes the soup hearty yet comforting.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes enhance the overall flavor, with a hint of heat if you like a bit of spice.

Each of these ingredients plays an important role in creating a soup that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat, leaving just enough to sauté the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, including their juices, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits from the sausage. This will add even more flavor to the soup.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Once the soup is simmering, add the pasta to the pot. Stir well, then let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and fully cooked. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Stir in the Kale

Once the pasta is cooked, add the chopped kale and continue simmering for another 2-3 minutes until the kale has wilted and softened.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning as needed. Once the soup is seasoned to your liking, serve it hot with a garnish of fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

How Long to Cook the Italian Sausage Soup

The cooking time for this Italian Sausage Soup is relatively quick, especially for a soup that is so flavorful. From start to finish, it will take about 30-40 minutes to prepare. The sausage browns in about 5-7 minutes, the vegetables cook for another 5 minutes, and the soup simmers for about 15-20 minutes once the pasta and kale are added. It’s a great recipe for a weeknight meal when you don’t have a lot of time but want something hearty and delicious.

Tips for Perfect Italian Sausage Soup

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To avoid mushy pasta, be sure to add it at the right time and keep an eye on the cooking time. It should be just tender when the soup is ready.
Use Fresh Kale: Fresh kale is best for this soup since it holds up well during the simmering process and adds a lovely texture. If you use frozen kale, make sure to thaw and drain it first.
Season to Taste: Since every sausage brand has a different level of seasoning, always taste your soup before serving. You may need to adjust the salt and pepper accordingly.
Simmer for Flavor: Let the soup simmer a little longer if you want the flavors to develop more deeply. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will become.
Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or swap vegetables based on what you have. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even potatoes would all be great additions!

By following these simple tips, you’ll end up with a bowl of comforting, perfectly balanced Italian Sausage Soup every time.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, especially when added to hot oil. Always cook garlic on a medium heat and keep an eye on it to avoid a bitter taste.
Overcrowding the Pot: If you’re using a smaller pot, avoid overcrowding the sausage and vegetables. It can make it difficult for them to cook evenly. Use a large pot or cook in batches if needed.
Under-seasoning the Soup: Italian sausage is flavorful, but it doesn’t provide all the seasoning you need. Make sure to taste and adjust the soup’s seasonings with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
Cooking the Pasta Too Long: Pasta can quickly become mushy if overcooked. To prevent this, cook it just until tender, and remember that it will continue to soften as it sits in the hot broth.

What to Serve with Italian Sausage Soup?

This Italian Sausage Soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but there are plenty of side dishes that complement it perfectly. Here are some great options to serve alongside:

H3: Garlic Bread

A warm, buttery garlic bread is always a great choice to pair with soup. It soaks up the delicious broth and adds a satisfying crunch.

H3: Fresh Salad

A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and adds a fresh, crisp element to the meal.

H3: Crusty Italian Bread

A rustic loaf of Italian bread is perfect for dunking into the soup. The crusty exterior and soft interior make it a great companion.

H3: Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and squash complement the flavors of the soup while adding a healthy, savory side.

H3: Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

The creamy, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich is an excellent choice to pair with this warm, flavorful soup.

H3: Parmesan Crisps

For a low-carb option, you can serve Parmesan crisps. They add a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soup’s broth and sausage.

H3: Rice Pilaf

If you want something a bit different, serve the soup with a side of fluffy rice pilaf. The light, aromatic rice complements the soup without overpowering it.

H3: Pesto Crostini

For an extra burst of flavor, serve the soup with pesto crostini. The rich, herbaceous pesto adds a unique twist to the meal.

Storage Instructions

This Italian Sausage Soup stores really well and makes for excellent leftovers. After the soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it.

To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stove over low to medium heat until warmed through. If needed, add a splash of broth or water to help rehydrate the soup.

Estimated Nutrition

While the exact nutrition will vary depending on the ingredients you use, here’s an approximate breakdown for a standard serving of this Italian Sausage Soup:

Calories: 350-400 kcal
Protein: 20-25 grams
Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
Fat: 18-22 grams
Fiber: 4-5 grams
Sodium: 800-900 mg

This soup is relatively balanced, with a good mix of protein from the sausage, fiber from the vegetables, and carbs from the pasta. You can adjust the nutritional content based on your substitutions (like using leaner sausage or gluten-free pasta) to fit your dietary preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

H3: Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version of the soup.

H3: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. You can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

H3: Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw and reheat it on the stove.

H3: What kind of pasta should I use?

Short pasta shapes like ditalini, rotini, or shells are perfect for this soup. They hold up well in the broth and are easy to eat with a spoon.

H3: How do I make the soup spicier?

If you like spice, you can add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to give the soup an extra kick. You could also add a dash of hot sauce or a few fresh chili peppers for more heat.

H3: Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen kale in place of fresh kale. Be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup to avoid excess moisture.

H3: Can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even potatoes. Just be sure to chop them into small, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

H3: Is this soup gluten-free?

This soup can be made gluten-free by swapping out regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. Make sure to check the label on the broth as well, as some brands may contain gluten.

Conclusion

I hope this Italian Sausage Soup becomes a go-to recipe in your kitchen. It’s quick to make, comforting, and packed with flavor that everyone will love. Be sure to save it on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends—nothing beats a good recipe shared among loved ones!