Papa Cantella'S Italian Sausage Soup
A hearty Italian sausage soup packed with bold flavors, tomatoes, and pasta, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the chopped whole tomatoes, basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the small elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with another pasta shape, such as ditalini or small shells, if preferred. Adding a splash of red wine after browning the sausage can enhance the depth of flavor. For a healthy twist, toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty Italian bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavor. This soup also pairs beautifully with Italian Baked Chicken Breasts for a satisfying dinner. For a lighter option, consider serving alongside a simple Italian Pasta Primavera.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the soup. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Papa Cantella'S Italian Sausage Soup contains roughly 112 calories, with 8g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 4g 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 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. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve. If making it in advance, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to soften when reheated.
Is it possible to freeze the Italian sausage soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. You may need to add a bit more broth to adjust the consistency.
What can I add to make the soup spicier?
For a spicier kick, consider using hot Italian sausage instead of mild. You can also add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. For an extra layer of heat, stir in some diced jalapeños or a spoonful of harissa for a unique flavor boost.
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).