“Easy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe with Vegetables and Pasta for a Hearty One-Pot Meal”

Here’s a comforting Italian sausage soup recipe that’s both hearty and flavorful, perfect for cool weather and easy enough for a weeknight meal.

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Italian Sausage Soup

Ingredients:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)

1 medium onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 bell pepper, diced (optional)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup water

1 cup uncooked pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow)

1 can (15 oz) cannellini or kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon to break up the sausage as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little olive oil if needed. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper (if using). Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
3. Build the Broth: Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot, stirring to combine. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Add Pasta and Beans: Add the pasta and drained beans to the pot, and let it cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
5. Finish with Greens (Optional): If using spinach or kale, add it in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Stir until the greens are wilted and tender.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

Tips:

For a richer flavor, substitute half of the chicken broth with beef broth.

If you prefer a spicier soup, opt for hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, though the pasta may soak up some of the broth. Add a little water when reheating if needed.

Enjoy this comforting Italian sausage soup as a standalone meal, or pair it with a simple salad for a wholesome dinner.