Sausage-Pasta Soup
A hearty and flavorful sausage-pasta soup with tender rotini, savory Italian sausage, and rich tomato broth, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove sausage from casing.
- In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, brown the sausage and chopped onion.
- Drain excess fat. Stir in the stewed tomatoes, beef broth, water, and sliced salami.
- Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add uncooked rotini pasta; simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini. You can use turkey sausage as a leaner substitute for sweet Italian sausage. If you prefer a gluten-free option, swap rotini for gluten-free pasta. Enhance the flavor by adding Italian herbs such as oregano or basil. This dish can be versatile; experiment with different types of broth or add beans for extra protein.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness. A crusty bread or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish, making it a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider a side salad or some roasted vegetables. This soup is also perfect for meal prep or freezing, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sausage-pasta soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a safe dish until heated through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage-Pasta Soup contains roughly 293 calories, with 22g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1001mg per serving (44% 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 a different type of pasta instead of rotini?
Yes, you can substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require varying cooking durations. Make sure to adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure the pasta is cooked to your liking.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and salami, and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. You can also add beans or lentils for protein and extra texture. Additionally, more vegetables like carrots and bell peppers can enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you prefer a spicier soup, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while browning the sausage. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of sweet sausage for an extra kick. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and remember to balance the heat with some creamy elements like sour cream or cheese when serving.
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).