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 cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh vegetables brings out rich flavors that everyone will enjoy.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and nutrients, this soup keeps you satisfied for hours.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have a homemade meal ready in no time.
• Customizable: Feel free to add or omit veggies according to your preference or seasonal availability.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable, gather the right tools before starting. Having everything on hand makes preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution, ensuring your soup cooks perfectly without burning.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables easy and safe, allowing for quicker prep time.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your pot, helping you mix ingredients smoothly.

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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)

For Seasoning

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

For Finishing Touches

• 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 over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion; reduce heat to medium and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
– Add chopped carrot and celery; continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until tender.

Step 3: Add Peppers and Zucchini

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

Step 4: Incorporate Garlic and Vinegar

Stir in minced garlic and dry red apple vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 5: Combine Broth Ingredients

Add chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced fire-roasted tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the pot.

Step 6: Return Sausage to Pot

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

Step 7: Add Pasta

Incorporate dried small pasta into the pot. Cook for an additional 10 minutes or until pasta is cooked through.

Step 8: Final Touches

Add chopped parsley and season to taste with salt and black pepper before serving.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle into bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious Italian Sausage Soup!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Soup

Italian Sausage Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley or basil for an aromatic touch that brightens the flavors.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Serve with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

In Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls, making it both a meal and a vessel!

With Cheese

• Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.

How to Perfect Italian Sausage Soup

Creating the perfect Italian Sausage Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve a flavorful result.

• Choose quality sausage: Opt for high-quality beef, turkey, or chicken sausage for a richer flavor profile.
• Don’t rush the vegetables: Sauté the vegetables until they are tender; this enhances their natural sweetness.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your preference.
• Opt for homemade broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth for deeper flavor compared to store-bought versions.
• Let it rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors together.
• Experiment with pasta types: Try different small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo to find your favorite texture.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Sausage Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread complements the soup beautifully.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a fresh contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside your hearty soup.
4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta brings richness that pairs well with the flavors of the soup.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil provides a crunchy bite before diving into the soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed bell peppers make for a hearty side that echoes the Italian theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Italian Sausage Soup, here are some common mistakes you should avoid.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the sausage can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always brown the meat to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can result in mushiness. Aim for tender but still crisp veggies for better texture.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor-quality broth can negatively impact the soup’s flavor. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth for a richer taste.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Forgetting to season can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and add salt and pepper gradually to achieve balance.
• Choosing the Wrong Pasta: Some pasta types may not hold up well in soup. Use small pasta shapes like ditalini or shells that cook quickly and maintain their structure.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will keep well for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Italian Sausage Soup

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

Reheating Italian Sausage Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Stir occasionally and heat until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Italian Sausage Soup?

Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty dish made with sausage, vegetables, pasta, and a flavorful broth. It’s perfect for a comforting meal.

Can I customize my Italian Sausage Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch out pasta types based on what you have on hand.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What sides pair well with Italian Sausage Soup?

Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad to complement this delicious soup.

Final Thoughts

Italian Sausage Soup is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing for various customization options based on your taste preferences. Try it out today and enjoy each hearty spoonful!