Italian Sausage Soup
Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring mild Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and pasta in a savory tomato broth. Perfect for comforting weeknight dinners, it offers a balanced mix of spices and cheesy topping, making it a family favorite with rich, warming flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, combine the sausage, chopped green pepper, and chopped onion, then brown the mixture.
- Drain off the excess grease.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, water, chopped tomatoes, chicken bouillon or cubes, and garlic powder. Cook for 15 minutes.
- Add the macaroni and continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve in bowls topped with mozzarella cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using hot Italian sausage instead of mild. You can substitute the macaroni with any small pasta shape, such as ditalini or shells, for variations in texture. If you prefer a heartier soup, add in some chopped carrots or celery. To save time, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead of fresh.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal, consider serving a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables alongside. This dish is reminiscent of comforting Italian recipes, making it perfect for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. This soup also freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Sausage Soup contains roughly 417 calories, with 20g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1364mg per serving (59% 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 use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage is a great alternative if you're looking for a lighter option. Just be aware that it may have a slightly different flavor profile, so you might want to add extra spices or herbs to enhance the taste.
Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?
Absolutely! You can replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and increase the vegetables. Adding beans like cannellini or chickpeas can provide additional protein and heartiness.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding crushed red pepper flakes to the soup while it cooks. A dash of hot sauce right before serving can also elevate the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
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).