Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul and brings comfort to any table. This creamy soup combines savory sausage, tender pasta, and vibrant vegetables for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or cozy weekends when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare. Enjoy the unique blend of flavors in every spoonful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this soup can be on your table in just about an hour.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and chicken broth creates a luxurious base that enhances the taste of the sausage and veggies.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or pasta types to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly Dish: This comforting soup appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Italian Sausage Pasta Soup requires some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Having the right equipment will help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while providing enough space for simmering.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked sausage from the pot without excess grease.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth slurry by combining flour with broth, preventing lumps in your soup.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

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

For the Vegetables

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

For Thickening

• 2 tablespoons flour

For the Broth and Pasta

• 7-1/2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups mini bowtie pasta (see note 2)

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 1-1/2 cups heavy cream
• 2-1/2 packed cups finely chopped kale
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)

For Serving

• 1/2 packed cup grated Parmesan cheese (sandy texture, see note 3)
• Hearty buttered bread (optional, for serving)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)

How to Make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

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

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Create the Broth Base

Gradually add one cup of chicken broth while whisking constantly to create a slurry. Slowly add the remaining broth while continuing to whisk and scrape any bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Cook Pasta

Bring broth to a boil. Add mini bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions but subtract one minute from cooking time. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, kale, and sun-dried tomatoes until well combined. Gradually add Parmesan cheese a few tablespoons at a time to avoid clumping until melted. Return cooked sausage back into the pot. Season with salt as needed.

Step 6: Serve Your Soup

Serve hot with hearty buttered bread on the side. If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick! Enjoy your delicious Italian Sausage Pasta Soup!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Serving Italian Sausage Pasta Soup can enhance the meal experience with various accompaniments. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your soup.

Pair with Hearty Bread

• Crusty Italian Bread: Slice and toast for a crunchy texture that complements the creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: A flavorful option that adds richness and aroma, perfect for dipping.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan and croutons pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
• Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad balances the richness of the soup.

Include Appetizers

• Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory bites filled with cheese and herbs that can be made ahead of time.
• Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil for a fresh burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

To make your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring vibrant flavors to your soup.
• Adjust seasoning carefully: Taste as you go; balance flavors without overwhelming the dish.
• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures it retains its texture even after being mixed into the soup.
• Customize add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables or beans to suit your preferences.
• Garnish wisely: Fresh parsley or basil added just before serving enhances presentation and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Choosing the right side dishes can turn your meal into a feast. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter; perfect for dipping.
2. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze are fresh and vibrant.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized complements the soup’s richness.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits packed with cheese and garlic provide a comforting touch.
5. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta sticks add a unique twist that pairs nicely with the creamy soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Sausage Pasta Soup can be a delightful experience, but mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality sausage or broth can affect the flavor of your soup. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to season throughout the cooking process can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Overcooking pasta: If you cook the pasta too long in the soup, it can become mushy. Follow package instructions carefully for the perfect texture.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables helps develop their flavors. Don’t rush this step – allow them to soften and caramelize for a richer taste.
• Using heavy cream too quickly: Adding cream before the other ingredients have cooked down may lead to an unbalanced flavor. Stir in cream gradually for best results.
• Neglecting customization options: Not experimenting with different vegetables or herbs may limit the soup’s potential. Feel free to modify based on your preferences!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2–3 months.

Reheating Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

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

Yes! Ground turkey is a lean alternative that works well in this recipe. Just season it well to maintain flavor.

How do I make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup healthier?

You can reduce calories by using low-fat cream or substituting with almond milk. Adding extra vegetables also boosts nutrition.

What vegetables work best in Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?

Carrots and kale are great choices, but you can also add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on your preference.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does Italian Sausage Pasta Soup last in the fridge?

It lasts about 3–4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is both comforting and versatile, perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs to make it uniquely yours!

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Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines creamy goodness with vibrant vegetables and tender pasta, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground chicken sausage
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups finely diced yellow onion (1 large onion)
• 2 cups finely diced carrots (4–5 carrots)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 7–1/2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups mini bowtie pasta
• 1–1/2 cups heavy cream
• 2–1/2 packed cups finely chopped kale
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 1/2 packed cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over high heat. Add ground chicken sausage, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Lower the heat to medium, add butter, onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until tender.
3. Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables, cook for another minute while stirring.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth; bring to a boil.
5. Add mini bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions minus one minute.
6. Reduce heat to low; stir in heavy cream, kale, sun-dried tomatoes, and return cooked sausage to the pot. Mix well.
7. Serve hot with optional grated Parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 60mg