There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Italian sausage soup to warm your soul and fill your belly with joy. Picture this: rich, savory flavors mingling with tender bits of sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs wafting through the air like a fluffy cloud of happiness. It’s the kind of dish that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening, bringing comfort in every spoonful. Now, I don’t want to get too sappy here, but let me tell you, this soup has the power to turn any frown upside down—even if you’re just trying to figure out what to make for dinner.
I recall one particularly dreary winter evening when I decided that my soul needed a pick-me-up. Armed with just a few ingredients and a can-do attitude (and maybe a glass of wine), I whipped up this glorious Italian sausage soup. The moment the first spoonful hit my taste buds, it was love at first slurp! From that day on, this delicious dish became my go-to for both weeknight dinners and cozy gatherings with friends. hearty bacon soup recipe You’ll want to keep this recipe close; it’s perfect for those nights when you need something hearty yet comforting.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Italian sausage soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Its robust flavor profile delivers a delightful medley of spices and fresh vegetables in every bite.
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors from the veggies, it’s sure to impress your guests.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry!
Ingredients for Italian Sausage Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Italian Sausage: Use spicy or mild Italian sausage depending on your preference; both add fantastic flavor.
- Onion: A medium-sized onion adds depth and sweetness; always chop it finely for even cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the aroma and flavor; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
- Carrots: Sliced carrots bring natural sweetness and color; use fresh ones for the best texture.
- Celery: Diced celery adds crunch; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Look for tomatoes packed in juice or puree; they help create a rich broth.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps the soup flavorful without overpowering saltiness.
- Kale or Spinach: Fresh greens add nutrition and color; toss them in just before serving for freshness.
- Italian Seasoning: This spice blend ties everything together; feel free to make your own mix if you’re feeling adventurous!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Italian Sausage Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks until browned and no longer pink—about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery into the pot with the browned sausage. Sauté until softened—approximately another 5 minutes—stirring occasionally so nothing burns.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices and chicken broth. Stir well to combine everything into a savory mixture.
Step 4: Season Your Soup
Sprinkle in Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper (to taste). Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.
Step 5: Simmer Away
Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes. This lets all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully—grab yourself another glass of wine while you wait!
Step 6: Add Greens
Just before serving, stir in kale or spinach until wilted—this step takes only about two minutes but makes such a difference!
Transfer to bowls and enjoy your labor of love! Serve hot alongside crusty bread or sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top for that extra zing!
And there you have it—a bowl of Italian sausage soup that will not only satisfy your cravings but also keep you cozy through those chilly evenings!
You Must Know
- This Italian sausage soup is a comforting hug in a bowl.
- It’s packed with flavor, and you can tweak it to suit your pantry’s whims.
- The aroma alone will have your neighbors wondering what culinary magic is happening in your kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the Italian sausage in a large pot for maximum flavor. While that sizzles, chop your veggies and prepare the broth. grilled veggie skewers Once the sausage is nice and golden, toss in your vegetables, add the broth, and let everything simmer until tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out Italian sausage for turkey or add beans for extra protein. You could also throw in some kale or spinach for a nutritional boost. Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil to elevate the flavor even more!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore its cozy consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, use fresh herbs whenever possible; they make a world of difference.
- Don’t skip browning the sausage; it adds depth to your soup.
- Finally, let the soup rest after cooking; flavors meld beautifully over time.
I remember making this Italian sausage soup during a chilly winter night. My friends gathered around, and their delighted faces as they took their first spoonful made all my efforts worth it!
FAQs:
What are the key ingredients in Italian sausage soup?
Italian sausage soup typically includes ground Italian sausage, which adds a rich flavor. Other essential ingredients are tomatoes, beans, carrots, celery, and spinach or kale. You can also use chicken broth as the base for added depth. grilled lemon chicken Seasonings like garlic, onion, and Italian herbs enhance the taste. Feel free to customize your soup by adding other vegetables or spices that you enjoy.
How long does it take to cook Italian sausage soup?
Cooking Italian sausage soup takes about 30 to 45 minutes in total. Start by browning the sausage, which usually takes around 10 minutes. After that, add your vegetables and broth, allowing everything to simmer for another 20 to 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can enjoy this hearty dish quickly on a busy weeknight!
Can I make Italian sausage soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily make Italian sausage soup in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage in a skillet first for maximum flavor. Then transfer it along with other ingredients into the slow cooker. Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule. This method allows all the flavors to combine fully while you go about your day.
Is Italian sausage soup healthy?
Italian sausage soup can be a nutritious option if made with lean sausage and plenty of vegetables. The combination of protein from the sausage and fiber from beans and veggies contributes to a balanced meal. chicken and rice casserole You can also modify the recipe by using turkey or chicken sausage and reducing sodium by using low-sodium broth. Enjoying this comforting dish can fit well into a healthy diet.
Conclusion for italian sausage soup:
In summary, Italian sausage soup is a delightful and versatile dish that combines rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. By using ground Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, you create a hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking on the stovetop or using a slow cooker, this recipe is adaptable to fit your needs. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness with family or friends for a satisfying experience! For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.

Italian Sausage Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Italian sausage soup is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty recipe features savory Italian sausage, colorful vegetables, and fragrant herbs, creating a delightful medley of flavors that warms the soul. Easy to prepare and customizable based on pantry staples, this soup will quickly become a family favorite for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups kale or spinach (fresh)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes), breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened (approximately 5 minutes).
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth; stir well to combine.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.
- Simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes to meld flavors.
- Just before serving, stir in kale or spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes). Serve hot with crusty bread or parmesan cheese on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: - Substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option or add beans for extra protein. - Experiment with different greens like Swiss chard or arugula based on your preference. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.