Sausage Minestrone Soup

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This soup brings together the classic flavors of minestrone while adding a twist with Italian sausage. The result is a rich, flavorful bowl packed with nutritious veggies. Plus, it can be easily made in a slow cooker, making it convenient for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Twist: The addition of Italian sausage elevates the traditional minestrone, adding depth and spice.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and spinach, this soup is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Versatile Preparation: Enjoy it fresh or make it ahead of time; it tastes even better the next day!
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and freeze portions for quick meals later in the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Sausage Minestrone Soup, you’ll need just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop your vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures smooth cutting of ingredients, making prep time quicker.

Ingredients

To make this delightful Sausage Minestrone Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 16 ounces mild Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 1 & 1/2 cups celery (chopped)
• 1 & 1/2 cups carrots (chopped)
• 1 6 ounce can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 15 ounce can Italian style diced tomatoes
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 15 ounce can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 15 ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup zucchini (chopped)
• 1 cup yellow squash (chopped)
• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach
• basil pesto (to garnish)
• grated parmesan cheese (to garnish)

How to Make Sausage Minestrone Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large soup pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium to medium-high heat. Drain the fat before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the sausage is cooking:
* Chop the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the tomato paste, chopped onions, celery, carrots, garlic, and dried oregano to the pot.
* Sauté for about 5 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the can of Italian tomatoes along with the chicken broth.
* Turn up the heat to high and bring to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer for Flavor

Once boiling:
* Reduce heat to simmer and cook for about 30–45 minutes until all carrots are tender.

Step 6: Incorporate Beans and Vegetables

Add both cans of beans along with zucchini and yellow squash.
* Bring back to a boil then reduce to a simmer again.

Step 7: Cook Pasta

Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until your pasta is cooked through.

Step 8: Adjust Consistency

If you’d like a soupier texture:
* Stir in another cup or two of chicken broth as needed.

Step 9: Add Spinach

Turn off heat and stir in baby spinach.
* You may choose to roughly chop it for easier eating.

Step 10: Serve Hot

Allow spinach to wilt for about five minutes before serving. Season with salt and pepper if desired.

Step 11: Garnish

Serve each bowl garnished with a teaspoon of basil pesto and some grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Sausage Minestrone Soup!

How to Serve Sausage Minestrone Soup

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or at a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your soup with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf for dipping. The bread’s texture complements the soup’s heartiness.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the soup’s flavor.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• For a more filling option, serve the soup over cooked rice or quinoa. This adds an extra layer of texture and makes it even more satisfying.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad featuring mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette can balance out the meal. The crispness of the salad contrasts nicely with the warm soup.

Topped with Avocado

• Adding diced avocado on top not only boosts nutrition but also brings a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the soup.

How to Perfect Sausage Minestrone Soup

Perfecting your Sausage Minestrone Soup is all about balance and technique. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect bowl every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will bring out the best flavors in your soup. Opt for seasonal produce whenever possible.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and adjust as you go. Taste testing throughout cooking helps avoid over-seasoning.

• Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer al dente pasta, cook it separately and add it to each bowl before serving. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft in the soup.

• Allow Flavors to Meld: Letting the soup sit for a while before serving enhances its flavors. A few hours or even overnight in the fridge can make a difference!

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Minestrone Soup

Complementing your Sausage Minestrone Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth of minestrone.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add an earthy flavor that pairs well with minestrone.

4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta is an excellent base that can soak up the flavors of the soup beautifully.

5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains, beans, and spices for an extra punch alongside your soup.

6. Simple Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that balances out the richness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sausage Minestrone Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Boldly skip chopping your vegetables – Not chopping the vegetables into uniform sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure all pieces are similar for consistent tenderness.
• Boldly neglecting seasoning – Failing to season at various stages can result in a bland soup. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Boldly using low-quality broth – A subpar broth can make or break your soup’s flavor. Always opt for a high-quality chicken broth for the best taste.
• Boldly ignoring cooking time – Cooking the soup too quickly can leave vegetables undercooked. Take your time and let it simmer for full flavor development.
• Boldly forgetting garnishes – Skip garnishes like pesto or grated cheese, and you miss a finishing touch that adds depth. Always remember to enhance your soup before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Sausage Minestrone Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space for expansion when freezing liquids.

Reheating Sausage Minestrone Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sausage Minestrone Soup different?

Sausage Minestrone Soup is unique due to its addition of Italian sausage, which enhances the traditional minestrone flavors with rich meatiness.

Can I use other meats in my Sausage Minestrone Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken or turkey for a lighter option while still maintaining delicious flavors.

How do I customize my Sausage Minestrone Soup?

You can customize by adding different vegetables like kale or bell peppers, or switching up the beans according to what you have on hand.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Sausage Minestrone Soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and flavors develop even more after sitting.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

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

Final Thoughts

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings comfort with every spoonful. Its versatility allows you to customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you prefer. Give this easy recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Sausage Minestrone Soup

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the beloved flavors of classic minestrone with the richness of Italian sausage. This savory soup is brimming with an assortment of nutritious vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and spinach, making it not just delicious but also a wholesome meal option. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be effortlessly prepared in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, allowing you to enjoy a steaming bowl of goodness any day of the week. With its customizable nature, you can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to make it uniquely yours. Serve it alongside crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal that warms both body and soul.

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Ingredients

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• 16 ounces mild Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 & 1/2 cups celery, chopped
• 1 & 1/2 cups carrots, chopped
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 can (15 ounces) Italian style diced tomatoes
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup zucchini, chopped
• 1 cup yellow squash, chopped
• 1/2 cup dry ditalini pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion, celery, carrots, garlic, tomato paste, and oregano to the pot; sauté for about five minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to simmer for about 30–45 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the beans, zucchini, and yellow squash; bring back to a boil then reduce to simmer again.
6. Add ditalini pasta and cook for an additional ten minutes until tender.
7. Turn off heat and stir in baby spinach; let wilt for five minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop/Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg