Dive into the comforting warmth of a classic Italian sausage soup, a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for chilly evenings or a satisfying weeknight meal. This recipe captures the essence of Italian cooking with its simple yet robust combination of savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy preparation times; this recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. The beautiful blend of textures and tastes will leave you wanting more.
This simple Italian sausage soup recipe delivers a big punch of flavor without sacrificing ease. From the perfectly seasoned sausage to the vibrant vegetables and the deeply satisfying broth, every element works together to create a truly memorable experience. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let's move on to the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Stockpot or Dutch oven
- Large spoon
Ingredients
- Garlic: 1 clove
- Carrots: 2-3
- Zucchini: 2 small
- Spinach: 1 bunch
- Italian Sausage: 1 pound
- Beef Broth: 2 (14.5 ounce) cans
- Stewed Tomatoes (Italian-style): 1 (14.5 ounce) can
- Salt
- Pepper
- Great Northern Beans: 1 (14.5 ounce) can
- Small Pasta (optional): 1 cup (cooked)
- Parmesan Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Sausage and Vegetables
- Peel and mince one clove of garlic.
- Trim, peel, and slice two to three carrots. You'll need about one cup.
- Trim and cube two small zucchini.
- Heat a stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add one pound of bulk Italian sausage and cook, stirring with a large spoon and breaking up any large pieces, until evenly browned (about 15 minutes).
- Add the minced garlic and sauté briefly.
Step 2. Simmer the Soup
- Add two 14.5-ounce cans of beef broth, one 14.5-ounce can of Italian-style stewed tomatoes, and the sliced carrots. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 3. Add Beans and Zucchini
- Stir in one 14.5-ounce can of Great Northern beans (with the liquid) and the zucchini. Cover and simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Rinse a bunch of fresh spinach and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. You'll need about two packed cups.
- Remove from heat and stir in the spinach. Cover and let stand about five minutes to wilt the spinach.
- Serve hot.
Read more: Italian Zucchini Soup with Parmesan Croutons: A Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Some people like to add a cup of cooked small pasta (such as ditalini) just before serving.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Mild Italian sausage is traditional, but you can experiment with spicy sausage or even chicken sausage for a lighter version.
2. How can I make this soup thicker?
Simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water at the end.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This simple Italian sausage soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting warmth and delicious flavors of this classic dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite vegetables and spices to make it your own. Buon appetito!