Easy Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach

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This Easy Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach is a hearty, rustic dish bursting with comforting Italian flavors. Packed with savory sausage, fresh spinach, and tender pasta, this one-pot soup is perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or freezing for later. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying and nourishing meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • Soup Base:
    • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
    • 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
    • 1 medium onion, peeled and diced
    • 2–3 ribs celery, diced
    • 1 medium red or orange bell pepper, finely chopped
    • 2–3 cloves fresh garlic, finely chopped
    • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Broth and Additions:
    • 7 cups low-sodium chicken broth
    • 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
    • 1 1/2 cups Ditali pasta or another small pasta, dry
    • 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • For Garnish:
    • Freshly grated Parmigiano cheese
    • Fresh basil

Directions

  1. Cook the Sausage:
    • In a large pot over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the Italian sausage until browned and no longer pink. Transfer to a plate and drain excess fat, leaving 2 tablespoons in the pot.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
    • Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Simmer the Soup:
    • Return the sausage to the pot. Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juice.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors.
  4. Cook the Pasta:
    • Stir in the dry pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
  5. Add the Spinach:
    • Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
  6. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with freshly grated Parmigiano cheese and fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy.

Nutrients

  • Calories: ~250 kcal per serving
  • Protein: ~15 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18 g
  • Fat: ~12 g
  • Sodium: ~850 mg
  • Fiber: ~3 g

This soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize with different greens or pasta types. It’s perfect for any occasion, offering rich flavors and wholesome nourishment. Enjoy!

Why Italian Sausage Soup is a Family Favorite

This soup is a crowd-pleaser for a variety of reasons:

  • Rich in Flavor: The savory Italian sausage and fragrant Italian seasoning infuse the broth with a robust and comforting flavor.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this an easy and efficient recipe for busy weeknights.
  • Customizable: It can be adapted with different vegetables, greens, or pasta to suit your preferences.
  • Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a wholesome meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
  • Freezer-Friendly: This soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

What Makes This Recipe Unique

Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach stands out for its bold flavors and simplicity. Here’s why this recipe is special:

  1. Italian Sausage as the Star: The sausage adds a depth of flavor that’s both savory and slightly spicy, creating the perfect base for the soup.
  2. Hearty Vegetables: The inclusion of carrots, celery, bell peppers, and spinach makes this soup as nutritious as it is delicious.
  3. Comforting Pasta: The small, tender pasta absorbs the broth and becomes infused with its flavors, making every bite satisfying.
  4. Customizable Base: The combination of chicken broth and tomatoes creates a light yet flavorful broth that complements the richness of the sausage.

Nutritional Benefits of Italian Sausage Soup

This soup is as nutritious as it is delicious, offering a variety of health benefits:

  • Protein-Packed: Italian sausage and pasta provide ample protein to keep you full and energized.
  • Rich in Vitamins: Spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, while carrots and bell peppers add additional nutrients like beta-carotene and vitamin C.
  • Good Source of Fiber: Vegetables and pasta contribute fiber, promoting digestive health and providing long-lasting satiety.
  • Low in Calories: Despite its richness, the soup remains relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
  • Hydrating: With a broth-based foundation, this soup is hydrating and easy on the digestive system.

For an even lighter option, you can use turkey sausage or reduce the pasta.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Sausage Soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your meal:

  • Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm baguette or sourdough loaf to soak up the flavorful broth.
  • Garlic Bread: Add a side of garlic bread or cheesy garlic rolls for an indulgent twist.
  • Side Salad: Pair with a fresh Caesar salad or arugula salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
  • Toppings: Garnish with freshly grated Parmigiano cheese, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
  • For a Crowd: Serve with a charcuterie board or antipasto platter for a complete Italian-inspired feast.

Creative Variations

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some creative variations:

  1. Gluten-Free: Swap the pasta for gluten-free pasta or omit it altogether and add cannellini beans for extra protein.
  2. Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  3. Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the broth for a spicier version.
  4. Greens Galore: Substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or escarole for a different texture and flavor.
  5. Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta cheese just before serving for a creamier soup.

Tips for Perfect Italian Sausage Soup

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

  1. Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Mild or spicy varieties work equally well, depending on your preference.
  2. Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
  3. Cook Pasta Separately (Optional): To prevent the pasta from absorbing too much broth during storage, cook it separately and add it to individual servings.
  4. Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer gently to meld the flavors together and create a rich, hearty broth.
  5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: The saltiness of the sausage and broth can vary, so adjust salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Italian Sausage Soup is a versatile dish that works well for various occasions:

  • Weeknight Dinners: Quick to prepare and hearty enough to satisfy the whole family.
  • Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store in individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
  • Entertaining: Impress guests with a rustic and flavorful soup as the centerpiece of your Italian-inspired menu.
  • Comfort Food Cravings: Warm and nourishing, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in or when you need a comforting meal.
  • Freezer-Friendly Option: Freeze leftovers in portions for an easy go-to meal on busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach offers a perfect combination of bold flavors, hearty textures, and wholesome ingredients. It’s a simple one-pot recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The combination of savory sausage, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables creates a meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.

Whether you’re serving a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or indulging in a cozy dinner for two, this soup is sure to impress. Its versatility and adaptability make it a recipe you’ll return to time and again.

Conclusion

Easy Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach is the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and simple preparation, it’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated from the freezer, this soup is a go-to option for busy weeknights, entertaining guests, or simply satisfying your comfort food cravings.

Serve it with your favorite sides, garnish it to your liking, and enjoy the warmth and nourishment of this Italian classic. Try it today and discover why it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe collection!

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