Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
A hearty Italian sausage pasta soup with savory sausage, tomatoes, herbs, and pasta accents, perfect for comforting family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place sausage links in a large saucepan and add water to a depth of about 1/2 inch.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10 minutes until sausage is partially cooked.
- Drain the sausage and slice into 1/2-inch slices.
- Return sliced sausage to the saucepan.
- Add tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato sauce, basil, and oregano; stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the frozen pasta accents.
- Cover and bring to a boil again, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage can be substituted for traditional Italian sausage. To enhance the soup's richness, you might also stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of pesto. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a fulfilling meal. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan cheese on top. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside Riscotto Pancakes for a unique Italian-themed dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup if it thickens. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be aware that the pasta may soften upon reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Sausage Pasta Soup contains roughly 311 calories, with 14g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (168% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (121% of the Daily Value), and calcium (105% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 34g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sausage types, such as chicken or even vegetarian sausages, to suit your dietary preferences. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked before adding to the soup.
What can I add to make the soup more filling?
For a heartier version, you can add beans like cannellini or chickpeas, or even small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. These additions will not only make the soup more filling but also add extra texture and flavor.
Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure that the pasta accents are also vegetarian-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of this Italian classic.
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).