Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the comforting flavors of this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, a hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings.
This Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a delightful blend of savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta. It’s a dish that brings family and friends together, perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy meal.
- Loaded with flavorful sausage and fresh vegetables.
- Easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option.
A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion
This Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is more than just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort to the table. The robust flavors of Italian sausage combined with fresh vegetables create a delightful balance that satisfies the palate. Whether it's a chilly evening or a casual family gathering, this dish promises to impress and nourish everyone who indulges in it.
One of the best features of this soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or even swapping the sausage for a meat alternative. This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for both traditionalists and those looking to experiment in the kitchen. Each bowl is a canvas waiting for your culinary creativity.
Quick and Simple Preparation
Busy weeknights can often leave little time for elaborate meals, but this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup can be prepared in just about 30 minutes. With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you’ll have a wholesome dinner ready in no time. This simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for families and individuals alike, ensuring you can enjoy a home-cooked meal even on your busiest days.
Using a single pot for this recipe not only simplifies the cooking process but also reduces cleanup time, making it an ideal choice for those who want to maximize their efficiency in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll find that cooking can be both enjoyable and stress-free.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is an excellent option for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days and freezes beautifully for longer storage. Prepare a large batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!
To make meal prepping even easier, consider portioning the soup into individual containers. This way, you can grab a serving whenever you're in need of a quick meal. With its robust flavors, this soup only gets better as it sits, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully over time.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbows)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference!
Instructions
Cook the Sausage
In a large pot over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
Add Pasta
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Finish with Spinach
Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your hearty Italian Sausage Pasta Soup!
Serving Suggestions
While this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is satisfying on its own, pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad can elevate your dining experience. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly, offering a refreshing contrast that enhances each bite.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider serving the soup with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. These additions can bring a delightful kick to the meal, appealing to those who love a little spice in their dishes.
Storage Tips
To store leftover Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. If freezing, be sure to leave some space in the containers for the soup to expand as it freezes.
When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup, especially if it thickens in the refrigerator. Gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta in this soup. While small shapes like ditalini or elbows work best, you can also try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary preferences. Each type of pasta will bring a unique texture that can change the experience of the soup.
For a veggie-packed version, consider adding more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or kale. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them alongside the other vegetables. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors that make the dish even more appealing.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, feel free to substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth instead.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the pasta before freezing, as it can become mushy.
Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
Savor the comforting flavors of this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, a hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings.
Created by: Erin Wallace
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbows)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How-To Steps
In a large pot over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 20g