Name: Hearty Italian Sausage Pasta Soup for Comforting Weeknights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian Sausage (Choose hot or mild based on preference); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with vegetable oil); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Shallots can be a substitute); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced or fresh for best taste); 2 medium Carrots (Substitutions include parsnips or bell peppers); 2 stalks Celery (Omit or replace with fennel); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Green bell pepper can be used instead); 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Fresh herbs can replace dried); 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (Fresh herbs can replace dried); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (Adjust quantities if using fresh herbs); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Use regular or sea salt in the same quantity); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Substitute with white pepper if preferred); 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, adjust based on preference); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Substitute with crushed tomatoes if necessary); 1 can Diced Tomatoes (Use crushed or whole tomatoes as a substitute); 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth (Use vegetable broth for vegetarian version); 2 cups Water (Add as necessary for desired consistency); 2 cups Short Pasta (Ditalini or small shells recommended); 1 can Cannellini Beans (Substitute with chickpeas or navy beans); 2 cups Fresh Spinach or Kale (Any robust leafy green can be used); 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano can also work; nutritional yeast for dairy-free); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or Basil (For garnish and brightness); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Optional; vinegar can substitute); 1 loaf Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread (For serving alongside soup)

As I stood over the pot, a fragrant symphony of sautéing onions and garlic filled the kitchen, instantly whisking me back to my grandmother’s bustling Italian kitchen. This Easy Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is my go-to for a cozy weeknight meal, offering that warm embrace we all crave after a long day. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a hearty comfort food loaded with protein and colorful vegetables. Perfect for everyone, from busy professionals to families navigating hectic schedules, it invites you to gather ‘round the table and savor each bowlful. Are you ready to make your kitchen the heart of tonight’s dinner?

Why is this soup a weeknight favorite?

Quick Preparation: In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a hearty dish ready to serve. Perfect for juggling busy schedules!
Customizable Ingredients: Tailor the flavor with your choice of spicy or mild sausage, or even switch to ground turkey for a healthier option.
Packed with Nutrition: A wholesome blend of vegetables and fiber-rich beans, this soup makes every bite delightful and nourishing.
Comfort in a Bowl: With its rich tomato broth and tender pasta, it’s a warm hug that summarizes the essence of comfort food. Enjoy it with a side of garlic bread for an extra treat!
Leftover Magic: It tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days!

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup Ingredients

• Ready to create a cozy dish? Here’s what you’ll need!

For the Soup

Italian Sausage – Adds rich flavor and protein; choose hot or mild based on spice preference.
Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing vegetables; can substitute with vegetable oil.
Yellow Onion – Provides an aromatic base; shallots can be a substitute.
Garlic – Enhances flavor and aroma; use minced or fresh garlic for the best taste.
Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture; substitutions include parsnips or additional bell peppers.
Celery – Contributes crunch and depth; omit or replace with fennel for a different flavor.
Red Bell Pepper – Offers sweetness and color; green bell pepper can be used instead.
Dried Oregano, Basil, and Italian Seasoning – Flavor boosters for authenticity; fresh herbs can replace dried; adjust quantities.
Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; use regular salt or sea salt in the same quantity.
Black Pepper – Adds spice and aroma; substitute with white pepper if preferred.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional heat addition; adjust amount or omit based on preference.
Tomato Paste – Adds richness and thickness to the soup; substitute with crushed tomatoes in a pinch.
Diced Tomatoes – Contributes tartness and texture; use crushed or whole tomatoes as a substitute.
Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Base liquid that adds depth; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
Water – Adjusts soup thickness; add as necessary for desired consistency.
Short Pasta – Provides heartiness; ditalini or small shells work well for this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup.
Cannellini Beans – Adds creaminess and fiber; chickpeas or navy beans can be substituted.
Fresh Spinach or Kale – Boosts nutrition and color; any robust leafy green can be used.
Grated Parmesan Cheese – Offers a salty finishing touch; Pecorino Romano can also work; nutritional yeast for dairy-free.
Fresh Parsley or Basil – For garnish and brightness; swap with other fresh herbs like cilantro or thyme.
Lemon Juice (optional) – Brightens flavor profile; vinegar can serve as a substitute if lemon isn’t available.
Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread – Suggested for serving alongside soup.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and no longer pink. Remove from heat and transfer the sausage to a bowl, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pot for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce the heat to medium and add the olive oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to lift any flavorful brown bits left from the sausage.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, mixing the ingredients well, until the spices become aromatic and the garlic is lightly golden. This step enhances the depth of flavor in your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste
Add the tomato paste to the vegetable mixture and stir it in thoroughly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly as you scrape the pot to incorporate any remaining browned bits. This will add richness and depth to your soup’s base.

Step 5: Add Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a rapid boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, allowing the soup to cook for 10-15 minutes. During this time, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a cozy and savory broth for your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta and Beans
Stir in the short pasta of your choice, along with the cannellini beans. Continue to simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Ensure the pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly even after being removed from the heat.

Step 7: Add Greens and Finish Cooking
Incorporate the fresh spinach or kale into the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted and vibrant. This not only adds nutrition but also a pop of color to your comforting Italian Sausage Pasta Soup.

Step 8: Final Touches and Serve
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and, if desired, a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, serving alongside crusty bread or garlic bread for a heartwarming meal.

Expert Tips for Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Fat Control: Drain excess fat from the sausage after browning to prevent your soup from becoming greasy.
Choose Your Pot Wisely: A Dutch oven or heavy pot ensures even cooking, providing a robust flavor as it simmers.
Mind the Pasta: Cook pasta al dente; it will absorb some liquid as leftovers, preventing a mushy texture later.
Season Smartly: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Remember, flavors deepen as the soup sits and cools.
Easy Substitutions: Feel free to vary ingredients based on what you have. For instance, cannellini beans can be swapped for chickpeas to mix things up!

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations that will elevate your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup experience!

Lighten Up: Replace Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You’ll still get the comforting flavors, just with a lighter touch.
Veggie Boost: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or even sweet corn for a burst of color and nutrition. Feel free to mix and match based on what’s in your fridge!
Heat Adjustment: Use mild sausage or reduce crushed red pepper flakes to dial down the spice for a family-friendly dish. Keep it cozy without extra heat.
Herb Enhancement: Swap dried herbs for fresh alternatives. The vibrant flavors of fresh basil and oregano can elevate the soup into a whole new experience.
Pasta Twist: Switch short pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to suit dietary preferences. Ditalini gives the same comforting texture but with added fiber!
Smooth and Creamy: Blend some of the soup after cooking for a creamy texture, perfect for those who enjoy a luxurious mouthfeel. Just add a splash of cream or plant-based milk to finish!
Zesty Add-On: Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine for a tangy twist that enhances the soup’s depth. This slight change can add a gourmet touch!

Remember, every spoonful tells a story! If you’re curious, try serving this with a side of cozy chicken sausage pasta garden veggies recipe or enjoy an afternoon with a comforting bowl of Chicken Enchilada Soup.

How to Store and Freeze Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

Serving Later: This Italian Sausage Pasta Soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld, making it a fantastic meal prep option!

What to Serve with Easy Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Let’s enhance your comforting bowl of soup into a delightful full meal that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the rich flavors of the soup, perfect for dipping every savory bite.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing blend of greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette contrasts the hearty soup, adding brightness to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies brings a sweet and slightly charred flavor, integrating perfectly with the soup’s savory notes.
Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft and cheesy, these are an indulgent side that pairs beautifully with the warmth of the pasta soup. They’ll disappear before you know it!
Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy, salty bites offer an irresistible textural contrast, amplifying the soup experience while adding a burst of rich flavor.
Sangiovese Wine: A glass of this medium-bodied red enhances the Italian themes, with matching fruity accents that harmonize with the soup’s rich tomato base.
Pesto Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with pesto create a colorful, flavorful side that adds a gourmet touch to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These flavorful Italian Sausage Pasta Soup ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can chop and refrigerate all your vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper) up to 24 hours in advance, which saves precious time on busy nights. Moreover, you can brown the sausage and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. This ensures that your soup is just as delicious when you finish cooking it. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the broth and pasta, letting it simmer until the flavors meld together for a comforting meal without the rush!

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of Italian sausage should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either hot or mild Italian sausage, depending on your personal spice preference. If you’re preparing the meal for family or guests who have varying taste levels, mild sausage is a safe bet, allowing everyone to enjoy the rich flavors without overwhelming heat.

How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make it watery.

Can I freeze Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze the soup, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months. I recommend letting the soup cool before packing and leaving a little extra space in the containers as liquids expand when frozen.

What if my soup is too thick after reheating?
No worries! If your soup thickens too much while reheating, simply add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up. Stir gently while heating on the stovetop or in the microwave until it reaches your desired consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting Italian sausage with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative. For those who are gluten-free, swap the short pasta for a gluten-free version, and check the broth labels to ensure they align with your needs.

What should I look for when selecting fresh vegetables?
When selecting fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers, make sure they are firm and vibrant. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as these may indicate spoilage. For the freshest flavor, opt for vegetables that are in season!