The first time I made this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, I was merely looking for a way to use up some ingredients hiding in my fridge. Little did I know that I was about to embark on a culinary adventure that would fill my kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of savory sausage and aromatic vegetables simmering together in a pot. Picture yourself on a chilly evening, curling up with a bowl of this creamy, hearty soup that’s equal parts comforting and invigorating.
With every spoonful, you’re treated to a delightful blend of flavors—spicy sausage mingles with creamy goodness, sun-dried tomatoes add a pop of sweetness, and kale brings a touch of freshness. Plus, it all comes together seamlessly, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you crave something heartwarming yet easy to prepare. Grab your favorite bread for dipping, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup!
Why is Italian Sausage Pasta Soup so special?
Comforting Warmth: This soup wraps you in a cozy hug, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Flavor Explosion: The savory sausage pairs beautifully with the creamy broth, enriched by sun-dried tomatoes and healthy kale.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just an hour, it’s a time-saver on busy nights while still feeling gourmet.
Crowd-Pleaser: With hearty ingredients, it’s bound to impress your family and friends, turning any meal into a celebration.
Adaptable Delight: Easily customize with your favorite veggies or pasta shapes, offering you endless variations!
Italian Sausage Pasta Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive oil – adds richness and flavor, perfect for sautéing ingredients.
• Ground Italian sausage – provides a savory and slightly spicy kick that defines the soup’s personality.
• Salt – enhances the flavor of all ingredients, but adjust to taste as the soup cooks.
• Pepper – adds just the right amount of warmth and enhances overall flavor.
• Unsalted butter – creates a luxurious mouthfeel and balances the dish with its creaminess.
• Finely diced yellow onion – brings a sweet flavor when sautéed, forming the aromatic base of your soup.
• Finely diced carrots – adds natural sweetness and vibrant color while contributing to the soup’s nutrition.
• Minced garlic – infuses the soup with a robust aroma and depth of flavor.
• Flour – helps to thicken the soup slightly, giving it a satisfying texture.
For the Broth
• Chicken broth – the soul of this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup, ensuring it’s flavorful and comforting.
For the Pasta & Cream
• Mini bowtie pasta – fun shapes that hold up well in the soup, making each bite delightful.
• Heavy cream – lends a rich, velvety texture to the broth that’s irresistible.
For the Veggies & Flavor Boost
• Finely chopped kale – adds a nutritious element and a touch of texture, balancing the creaminess.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – provide a sweet and tangy flavor burst that complements the sausage beautifully.
For the Finish
• Grated Parmesan cheese – a must for that salty, nutty finish; it elevates the soup’s overall richness.
• Hearty buttered bread (optional) – perfect for dipping, making each meal feel even more comforting.
• Red pepper flakes (optional) – sprinkle for an extra kick of heat, enhancing the soup’s flavor!
Embrace the warmth and cheer that this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup brings, and let it fill your kitchen with its irresistible aroma. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
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Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s hot, proceed to the next step.
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Brown the Sausage: Add 1 pound of ground Italian sausage, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Sear for about a minute on each side before crumbling and cooking until browned. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon, keeping 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot.
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Sauté Vegetables: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 2 cups finely diced yellow onion, 2 cups finely diced carrots, and 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Sauté until tender, about 7–9 minutes.
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Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour on top of the sautéed mixture and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to combine.
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Make the Broth: Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth while whisking to create a slurry. Slowly add the remaining 6-1/2 cups of broth, whisking and scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot.
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Cook Pasta: Bring the broth to a boil, then add 2 cups of mini bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions, minus one minute. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Add Cream and Veggies: Reduce heat to low. Add 1-1/2 cups heavy cream, 2-1/2 cups finely chopped kale, and 1/2 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, stirring well to combine.
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Finish with Parmesan: Gradually add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, a few tablespoons at a time to avoid clumping. Stir until melted, then return the sausage to the pot. Season with salt to taste, and add more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.
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Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with hearty buttered bread on the side. Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if desired.
Optional: Serve with fresh parsley for a lovely garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
Use Fresh Sausage: Ensure you’re using fresh ground Italian sausage for the best flavor. Avoid pre-cooked options, as they lack the rich taste that defines this soup.
Sauté Properly: Don’t rush the vegetable sautéing process; allow the onion and carrots to develop sweetness and depth of flavor before adding the flour.
Avoid Clumping: When adding cream and cheese, incorporate them gradually, stirring constantly. This helps prevent clumping in your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup.
Adjust Consistency: If the soup gets too thick, simply add more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency without losing flavor.
Taste as You Go: Frequently taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, as the flavors develop throughout the cooking process.
How to Store and Freeze Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion when freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to regain creaminess as it warms.
Portioning: Consider freezing individual servings for quick meals. It’s a wonderful way to have homemade comfort food ready when you need it!
Italian Sausage Pasta Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting soup—there are so many delightful ways to personalize it!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy texture without the dairy.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap mini bowtie pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who love a heat boost in their comfort food.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in additional veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for vibrant color and extra nutrition in every bite.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant twist that elevates the flavor profile.
- Lentil Add-in: For a protein-rich variation, add cooked lentils instead of sausage, creating a hearty and satisfying vegetarian option.
- Creamy Tomato: Stir in a can of crushed tomatoes for a slightly tangy, richer broth that complements the sauce beautifully.
- Savory Pesto: Drizzle in a tablespoon of pesto at the end for a fresh, herby infusion that pops with flavor.
Explore these variations to craft your perfect bowl of Italian Sausage Pasta Soup!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onions, carrots, kale, and sun-dried tomatoes) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can even brown the sausage ahead of time and refrigerate it, which makes the final cooking process quick and straightforward. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply follow the directions from the point of Sauté Vegetables to Serve Hot, adjusting the cooking times as needed. This way, each bowl will be just as delicious and comforting, allowing you to relish the moment without the last-minute stress!
What to Serve with Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?
Cozy up to a warm meal that feels just right and brings everyone to the table.
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Hearty Buttered Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth, this warm, crusty bread adds an extra layer of comfort. Pair it with garlic butter for a flavorful twist!
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread complements the soup’s rich flavors beautifully while adding a delightful bite.
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Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness, offering a crisp contrast in every bite.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and golden-brown, roasted vegetables provide a mouthwatering texture and earthy taste that enhance the wholesome ingredients of your soup.
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Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft and cheesy breadsticks are a fun addition, perfect for dipping and adding a cheesy twist to your dinner experience.
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White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully, complementing the savory notes of the sausage while cutting through the creaminess.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, light and refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate perfectly after the hearty soup, leaving you feeling rejuvenated.
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Apple Crisp: This warm, comforting dessert pairs beautifully with the cozy soup, providing a delightful sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Enjoy creating a warm and inviting meal alongside your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup!
Italian Sausage Pasta Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Italian sausage for this soup?
Absolutely! When choosing Italian sausage, look for fresh ground sausage that’s not overly processed. It should be bright red without any dark spots, indicating that it’s fresh. You can choose between sweet or spicy varieties depending on your personal preference for heat!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! For optimal freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. If you want, you can garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving to refresh the flavors!
Can I freeze Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?
Definitely! To freeze, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding some chicken broth if needed to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If your soup turns out thicker than you like, simply add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually while heating, and taste to ensure the flavors stay balanced. This is a great way to customize the soup to your liking!
Are there any dietary considerations for this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?
Great question! This soup contains dairy and gluten due to the heavy cream and bowtie pasta. If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute gluten-free pasta and use a non-dairy cream alternative for a delicious version. It’s always a good idea to check with any allergies and adjust ingredients accordingly.
How can I amp up the flavor of this soup?
The more the merrier! You can enhance flavors by adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano during cooking. A splash of white wine while sautéing the veggies can add depth too. Feel free to experiment with different seasonal vegetables to create your unique spin on this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup!
Cozy Up with Italian Sausage Pasta Soup for Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot over high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once it’s hot, proceed to the next step.
- Brown the Sausage: Add 1 pound of ground Italian sausage, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Sear for about a minute on each side before crumbling and cooking until browned. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon, keeping 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot.
- Sauté Vegetables: Reduce the heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 2 cups finely diced yellow onion, 2 cups finely diced carrots, and 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Sauté until tender, about 7–9 minutes.
- Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour on top of the sautéed mixture and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
- Make the Broth: Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth while whisking to create a slurry. Slowly add the remaining 6-1/2 cups of broth, whisking and scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Cook Pasta: Bring the broth to a boil, then add 2 cups of mini bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions, minus one minute.
- Add Cream and Veggies: Reduce heat to low. Add 1-1/2 cups heavy cream, 2-1/2 cups finely chopped kale, and 1/2 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, stirring well to combine.
- Finish with Parmesan: Gradually add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, a few tablespoons at a time to avoid clumping. Stir until melted, then return the sausage to the pot.
- Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with hearty buttered bread on the side. Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top if desired.