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 prepping for the week. Its rich flavors and vibrant ingredients make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup warms you from the inside out with its delicious blend of flavors and textures.
• Loaded with Nutrients: Packed with vegetables, this recipe offers a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes to make it your own.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
• Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze portions for busy days when you need a quick meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy soup pot: Provides even heat distribution, perfect for simmering soups without burning.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables for a well-prepared dish.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound Italian sausage (hot or mild, beef, turkey or chicken)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 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)

For the Broth

• 1/2 cup dry red apple vinegar
• 6 cups chicken broth (or as needed)
• 2 cans (each 15-ounce) tomato sauce (or 1 28-ounce can)
• 1 can (15-ounce) diced fire-roasted tomatoes (undrained)

Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (or to heat tolerance)

For Serving

• 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. Once cooked, drain on a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
– Add the chopped onion and reduce heat to medium.
– Cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften.

Step 3: Add More Veggies

• Add the chopped carrot and celery; continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
• Then add the red and green peppers; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
• Finally, add the zucchini and cook until all vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Vinegar

Add minced garlic along with dry red apple vinegar. Bring this mixture to a boil so that all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Create the Broth Mixture

Pour in chicken broth along with tomato sauce, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

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

Step 7: Cook the Pasta

Add in your choice of small pasta. Cook another 10 minutes or until pasta is thoroughly cooked.

Step 8: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Stir in freshly chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper according to taste.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Serve hot in bowls topped generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Now enjoy your homemade Italian Sausage Soup that everyone will love!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Soup

Italian Sausage Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, serving this hearty soup can elevate any meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread for a flavorful companion that pairs perfectly with the soup.
• Baguette Slices – Freshly sliced baguette works well for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds freshness and color to your bowl.
• Grated Cheese – Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan for a rich, savory finish.

As Part of a Meal

• Salad – A light mixed greens salad complements the heartiness of the soup without overpowering it.
• Antipasto Platter – Create an antipasto platter with olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables for an Italian-inspired feast.

How to Perfect Italian Sausage Soup

To ensure your Italian Sausage Soup is as delicious as possible, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Opt for high-quality sausage and fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Separately – For a thicker soup, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to avoid overcooking.
• Let It Rest – Allow the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking; flavors meld beautifully during this time.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Sausage Soup can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic vinegar make a refreshing side.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds a crunchy texture.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional flavors while keeping it healthy.
5. Pasta Salad – A chilled pasta salad with vegetables offers a nice contrast to the warm soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies can be a satisfying addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian Sausage Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes and how you can avoid them:

• Skipping the browning step – Failing to brown the sausage can result in bland flavors. Take the time to cook it well for a richer taste.
• Overcooking vegetables – Cooking veggies for too long can make them mushy. Aim for tenderness while still retaining some crunch.
• Not adjusting seasoning – Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your soup flat. Always sample before serving and tweak as needed.
• Choosing the wrong pasta – Using pasta that cooks too quickly can lead to mushy soup. Opt for small pasta shapes that hold up during cooking.
• Ignoring broth quality – Using low-quality broth can affect the overall flavor of your soup. Choose a good quality chicken broth for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Italian Sausage Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion.
• Should be consumed within 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Italian Sausage Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until steaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Italian Sausage Soup that may help enhance your cooking experience.

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

Yes! You can substitute beef, turkey, or chicken sausage based on your preference.

What vegetables work well in Italian Sausage Soup?

You can add any vegetables you like such as spinach, kale, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make my Italian Sausage Soup spicier?

To increase the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños during cooking.

Can I prepare Italian Sausage Soup ahead of time?

Certainly! This soup tastes even better when made a day ahead as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Is Italian Sausage Soup freezable?

Yes! It freezes well; just remember to store it properly in freezer-safe containers.

Final Thoughts

Italian Sausage Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt with different vegetables or spices based on what you have on hand. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re looking for something hearty. Give this recipe a try and enjoy customizing it to suit your taste!