Italian Sausage Soup

Here is everything you love about Italian cuisine in a hearty, soul-satisfying soup! Italian Sausage Soup is loaded with vegetables and pasta in an apple vinegar-infused tomatoey broth. This dish is perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prep for busy weeks ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: This soup features a blend of savory Italian sausage and fresh vegetables that create a deliciously hearty flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the vegetables and pasta to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this soup accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Comfort Food: A warm bowl of Italian Sausage Soup is perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a comforting meal.
• Healthy Options: Packed with nutritious ingredients, this soup is a great way to get your veggies in while enjoying a satisfying meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools and equipment before starting. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy soup pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy soup pot: Ideal for even heat distribution, allowing your ingredients to cook thoroughly without burning.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to consistent flavors in your soup.

Ingredients

Meat and Broth

• 1 pound Italian sausage (hot or mild, beef, turkey, or chicken)
• 6 cups chicken broth (or as needed)

Vegetables

• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 large carrots or 3 medium carrots (chopped)
• 3 stalks celery (chopped)
• 1 large red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 large green bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 medium zucchini (quartered lengthwise and thinly sliced)
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)

Sauces and Seasonings

• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup dry red apple vinegar
• 2 cans (each 15-ounce) tomato sauce (or 1 28-ounce can)
• 1 can (15-ounce) diced fire-roasted tomatoes (undrained)
• 2 tablespoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (or to heat tolerance)

Pasta and Garnish

• 1 1/2 cups dried small pasta (such as shells, ditalini, mini penne, elbow or orzo, regular or whole-grain)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Italian Sausage Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Brown the sausage in a Dutch oven or other heavy soup pot over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onion, reducing heat to medium. Cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften.
– Add the carrot and celery.
– Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Add More Vegetables

Add the red and green bell peppers; cook for 2-3 minutes. Then add zucchini; cook for another 2-3 minutes until all vegetables are very tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Vinegar

Add minced garlic along with dry red apple vinegar; bring to a boil.

Step 5: Combine Broth and Sauces

Add chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well.

Step 6: Return Sausage to Pot

Transfer the cooked sausage back into the pot. Bring everything to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Cook Pasta

Add pasta into the mixture; cook for another 10 minutes until pasta is cooked through.

Step 8: Finish with Parsley

Stir in chopped parsley; season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot in bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delightful bowl of Italian Sausage Soup!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Soup

Italian Sausage Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Pair the soup with slices of crusty sourdough or a warm baguette to soak up the flavorful broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

With Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Serving your soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds richness and a savory element that complements the flavors.

In Bread Bowls

• Edible Bowls: For a fun twist, serve Italian Sausage Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only makes for an impressive presentation but also adds extra texture.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the hearty soup and adds freshness to the meal.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Store for Later: Make a larger batch and store leftovers in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week. The flavors deepen as it sits!

How to Perfect Italian Sausage Soup

To achieve the best results when making Italian Sausage Soup, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking game.

• Use Quality Sausage: Select high-quality sausage for superior flavor. Freshly made sausage from a local butcher often yields the best results.
• Add Seasonal Vegetables: Incorporate seasonal vegetables to enhance nutrition and flavor. Options like spinach or kale can be great additions.
• Control Spice Levels: Adjust crushed red pepper based on your heat tolerance. Start with less if you’re unsure, as you can always add more later.
• Simmer Longer for Depth: Allowing the soup to simmer longer will develop deeper flavors. Just ensure you keep an eye on the pasta’s doneness!
• Experiment with Broth Types: Try using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter version while still maintaining robust flavor.
• Store Properly: When refrigerating leftovers, store pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy. Reheat gently before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Soup

Pairing side dishes with Italian Sausage Soup can create an unforgettable dining experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, making each bite satisfying.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that complements the heartiness of the soup.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth to your meal while keeping it healthy and colorful.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese can be an excellent side dish that pairs beautifully with the soup’s flavors.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables makes for an inviting appetizer before your main course.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with grains or quinoa offer a nutritious alternative that works well alongside Italian flavors.
8. Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia bread infused with herbs is another great option for dipping into your flavorful soup!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Sausage Soup can be simple, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.

• Using the wrong meat: Choosing low-quality or overly fatty sausage can make your soup greasy. Opt for lean beef, turkey, or chicken sausage for a healthier option.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long will make them mushy. Add heartier veggies first and softer ones later to maintain texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping spices or using too little can lead to bland soup. Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings gradually for the best flavor.
• Not measuring liquids accurately: Too much or too little broth can throw off the soup’s consistency. Use measuring cups to ensure precise amounts.
• Ignoring pasta cooking time: Adding pasta at the wrong time can result in overcooked or undercooked noodles. Follow cooking times carefully based on the type of pasta used.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian Sausage Soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Sausage Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• The soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Italian Sausage Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian Sausage Soup.

Can I use different types of pasta in Italian Sausage Soup?

Yes! You can substitute any small pasta shape such as shells, ditalini, or even whole grain options for added nutrition.

Is Italian Sausage Soup healthy?

Italian Sausage Soup can be quite healthy when made with lean meats and plenty of vegetables. Adjust ingredients based on your dietary preferences for a nutritious meal.

How do I make Italian Sausage Soup spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or include spicy sausage varieties.

Can I customize my Italian Sausage Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or kale and adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences.

How long does it take to make Italian Sausage Soup?

Preparation takes about 30 minutes, while cooking takes around 40 minutes, totaling approximately 70 minutes from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

Italian Sausage Soup is not only flavorful but also versatile enough for customization. You can adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or serving it at a gathering, this hearty soup is sure to satisfy!