Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a delightful blend of creamy broth, savory sausage, and tender pasta, making it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. This flavorful soup can warm you up on chilly nights or serve as an impressive dish for family and friends. The combination of fresh vegetables and herby sun-dried tomatoes adds unique character, ensuring each spoonful is satisfying and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich flavors: The creamy base combined with the savory sausage creates a depth of flavor that will delight your taste buds.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes to cater to your family’s preferences.
• Comforting dish: Ideal for cooler weather, this soup offers warmth and comfort that everyone will appreciate.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure smooth cooking. These items will help you create this delicious dish with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to meld together perfectly.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing cooked sausage from the pot while keeping the grease, which enhances flavor.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth slurry when adding flour to the broth.

Ingredients

For this hearty Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, gather the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage (see note 1)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Vegetables

• 2 cups finely diced yellow onion (1 large onion)
• 2 cups finely diced carrots (4–5 carrots)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Broth & Dairy

• 7-1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1-1/2 cups heavy cream

Pasta & Greens

• 2 cups mini bowtie pasta (see note 2)
• 2-1/2 packed cups finely chopped kale

Extras

• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 1/2 packed cup grated Parmesan cheese (sandy texture, see note 3)

Optional Serving Items

• Hearty buttered bread (optional, for serving)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)

How to Make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

In a large pot over high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add sausage, salt, and pepper. Sear for a minute on each side until browned. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving about 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, onions, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until tender for about 7-9 minutes. Sprinkle flour on top and cook for another minute while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Create Broth Base

Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth using a whisk to create a slurry. Slowly incorporate the remaining broth while whisking and scraping the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Bring the broth to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions but reduce by one minute. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cream & Greens

Lower heat to low. Mix in heavy cream, kale, and sun-dried tomatoes while stirring well. Gradually add Parmesan cheese in small amounts to prevent clumping. Stir until melted before adding back in the cooked sausage.

Step 6: Serve

Season with salt as needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more broth. Serve hot alongside hearty buttered bread. For an extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Serving Italian Sausage Pasta Soup can elevate your meal experience. The creamy soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and texture.

With Hearty Buttered Bread

• Freshly Baked: Serve with warm, freshly baked buttered bread to soak up the creamy broth.
• Garlic Bread: Add a twist by opting for garlic bread, which adds a flavorful kick.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of freshness and color.
• Basil Leaves: A few basil leaves can enhance the Italian flavor profile of the soup.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast to the soup’s creaminess.
• Mixed Greens: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette can refresh your palate.

Garnished with Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: Add more grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy indulgence.
• Feta Crumbles: For a different flavor, sprinkle some feta cheese to provide a tangy note.

How to Perfect Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Perfecting your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is all about technique and ingredient quality. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the soup’s overall flavor profile.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, gradually add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to avoid it becoming mushy in the soup.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go and season gradually, adjusting salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for 10 minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with Greens: Feel free to use other leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard instead of kale for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Pairing side dishes with Italian Sausage Pasta Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds a fresh, flavorful bite.
2. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies seasoned simply offer healthy sides that complement the soup nicely.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a hearty addition that meshes well with the flavors of the soup.
5. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft knots are perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add sweetness and are perfect for sopping up leftover soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust the salt and pepper before serving.
• Bold cooking pasta: Cooking the pasta too long in the soup will make it mushy. Follow package instructions carefully and reduce cooking time by one minute.
• Bold using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth can shock the soup. Always warm them slightly before adding to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Bold ignoring broth quality: The flavor of your soup relies heavily on the broth. Use high-quality chicken broth for the best results.
• Bold skipping ingredient prep: Not properly chopping vegetables can lead to uneven cooking. Take the time to finely dice everything for even texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup may expand when frozen.

Reheating Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl. Start with 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Italian Sausage Pasta Soup:

Can I use turkey instead of sausage in Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for sausage. It will still provide good flavor while reducing fat content.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I serve with Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?

This soup pairs well with hearty buttered bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How can I customize my Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach. You can also adjust seasonings according to your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a comforting dish that combines rich flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try it today and enjoy a warm bowl filled with deliciousness!