SAUSAGE SOUP

Introduction

Did you know that a single bowl of hearty SAUSAGE SOUP can deliver nearly half your daily protein needs? This robust dish, often underestimated, is a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food for any season.

Our recipe combines savory sausage with fresh vegetables and a rich broth, creating a deeply satisfying meal that is both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this SAUSAGE SOUP is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

This savory sausage soup combines the rich, herby flavor of Italian sausage with a comforting broth, tender vegetables, and creamy beans for a deeply satisfying bowl.

• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This SAUSAGE SOUP recipe is approximately 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Brown the Sausage

Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it is no longer pink and has developed a golden-brown crust, about 7-10 minutes.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot with the sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.

Step 3 — Deglaze the Pot

Pour in a half cup of chicken broth or dry white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This step builds a rich flavor base for your sausage soup.

Step 4 — Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the remaining chicken broth and add a can of diced tomatoes with their juices. For a richer soup, you can substitute one cup of broth with heavy cream or half-and-half.

Step 5 — Incorporate Potatoes and Seasonings

Add diced potatoes, along with dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.

Step 6 — Simmer Until Potatoes Are Tender

Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. Avoid a rolling boil to prevent the potatoes from breaking down too much.

Step 7 — Add Greens and Final Seasoning

Stir in chopped kale or spinach and cook for just 3-5 more minutes, until the greens have wilted. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 8 — Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot sausage soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Nutritional Information

Calories	320
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fat	18g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	980mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey or Chicken Sausage — A leaner protein option that still delivers savory flavor with less fat.
• Plant-Based Sausage — Ideal for vegetarian or vegan diets, offering a similar texture and spice profile.
• Cauliflower Rice — A lower-carb alternative to potatoes or pasta, adding bulk without the carbs.
• Zucchini Noodles — Perfect for a gluten-free, low-carb twist that soaks up the broth beautifully.
• Coconut Milk — A rich, dairy-free substitute for cream that adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture.
• Low-Sodium Broth — Reduces salt content while maintaining the hearty base of the sausage soup.
• Extra Vegetables — Boost fiber and nutrients with added kale, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Nutritional Yeast — Provides a cheesy, umami flavor without dairy, great for topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this hearty SAUSAGE SOUP with a thick slice of crusty bread or warm garlic bread for dipping.
• Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Perfect for chilly evenings, game day gatherings, or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
• Ladle into deep bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
• For a complete meal, add a side of buttery cornbread or fluffy biscuits.
• This SAUSAGE SOUP makes an excellent starter for a holiday feast or family celebration.

To enhance the presentation, use a colorful bowl and add a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of elegance and spice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using lean sausage that lacks fat and flavor. Fix: Opt for a higher-fat content sausage like Italian or Andouille to build a richer broth base.
• Mistake: Not browning the sausage properly before adding liquid. Fix: Sear the sausage in batches to develop a deep, caramelized fond on the bottom of the pot.
• Mistake: Overcooking vegetables until they become mushy. Fix: Add heartier veggies like carrots and celery early, but delicate ones like spinach at the very end.
• Mistake: Overseasoning too early, especially with salt. Fix: Wait until the end to season, as the sausage and broth will reduce and concentrate in flavor.
• Mistake: Letting the soup come to a rolling boil after adding dairy. Fix: Stir in cream or milk off the heat and warm gently to prevent curdling.
• Mistake: Skipping the deglazing step after browning the meat. Fix: Use a splash of wine or broth to scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the pot.
• Mistake: Using a weak, under-seasoned broth as the base. Fix: Choose a robust, low-sodium stock so you can control the salt level and amplify other spices.
• Mistake: Adding starchy ingredients like potatoes or pasta too early. Fix: Cook them separately and add just before serving to avoid a thick, gummy texture.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your sausage soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your soup in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Reheat: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.

Always ensure your sausage soup is stored properly to maintain its delicious flavor and quality.

Conclusion

This hearty and flavorful sausage soup is the perfect comfort food for any chilly day. We hope you love this easy recipe as much as we do. Give it a try and be sure to leave a comment with your review. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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