Hot Sausage Soup
A hearty, spicy sausage soup with tomatoes and lima beans, perfect for warming up during cold days and suited for those who enjoy bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the chopped celery, onions, and hot Italian sausage in a small amount of oil until cooked through.
- Cut the cooked sausage into 1/2-inch pieces.
- Put all ingredients into a large pan and simmer for 1 hour.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the sausage first before adding the vegetables. You can substitute the hot Italian sausage with mild sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Adding a bay leaf or a dash of hot sauce can enhance the soup's depth. If you prefer, you can also mix in some kale or spinach for added nutrition, similar to what you might find in other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty hot sausage soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light, refreshing dish like a cucumber salad to balance the spiciness. For a more filling option, serve it with a slice of cornbread or with crackers, making it a comforting choice for cold days.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to use a microwave-safe container and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Sausage Soup contains roughly 516 calories, with 17g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1180mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just follow the recipe and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. It’s perfect for meal prep or for a busy weeknight dinner.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian version by substituting the hot Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or lentils. Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth and add more vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, for additional texture and flavor. This will give you a hearty soup without the meat.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To amp up the heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup while it simmers. Fresh jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper will also do the trick. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference to customize the soup's heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).