Imagine a steaming bowl of hearty soup that transports you straight to the rustic kitchens of Italy, packed with robust flavors and wholesome ingredients. This Italian Sausage Soup is not just a meal, it's a culinary journey that combines the rich, spicy notes of Italian sausage with a medley of tender vegetables and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you're looking to impress your family on a chilly evening or craving a restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly easy to make, this recipe is your ultimate comfort food solution!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove the casings from the Italian sausage and add the meat directly to the pot, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon or spatula.
- Cook the sausage until it is browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally, which should take about 5-7 minutes. As the sausage releases its fat, it will help create a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables with the sausage for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the pot, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes aromatic.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes, including their juice. Stir to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the pasta. Simmer the soup for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. The sausage may already provide some saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
- Once the pasta is tender, remove the pot from heat. Let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves. Serve hot with crusty bread if desired.
Tips
- • Choose high-quality Italian sausage for maximum flavor - the spicier, the better! • Break the sausage into small, uniform crumbles for even cooking and distribution • Don't rush the sautéing process - letting vegetables and sausage caramelize builds depth • Use fresh basil as a garnish to add a bright, aromatic finish • For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or grated Parmesan • If the soup becomes too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth • This soup freezes beautifully - make a double batch for easy future meals • Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the delicious broth
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 55mg
