There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of Italian Sausage Pasta Soup on a chilly evening. This recipe always brings me back to those cozy nights in San Diego when the ocean breeze turns a little cooler, and I want something hearty but fuss-free. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for gathering the family around the table—especially when my little one insists on dunking bread into the broth, and my daughter debates whether pasta counts as a vegetable. This soup is not just about combining flavors; it’s about creating those everyday moments of joy and connection that I cherish deeply.
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Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
This soup hits the perfect balance between rich, savory sausage and tender pasta nestled in a flavorful tomato broth. From my experience juggling long shifts in restaurant kitchens to quick family dinners, I’ve learned that a recipe like this is a lifesaver—it’s simple, quick, and endlessly adaptable. It’s a one-pot wonder that doesn’t compromise on taste, with layers of garlic, herbs, and a touch of spice that keep everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak some veggies onto the table without any fuss, a trick I’ve picked up from cooking for my picky kids.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh, quality produce and good Italian sausage make all the difference. Growing up in England, my mum always said the best meals start with the best basics, and that’s stuck with me ever since. For this soup, I prefer using sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor that my kids tolerate well, but spicy sausage works beautifully if you like a bit of heat.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
If you’re short on fresh veggies, frozen spinach works well. For a gluten-free option, swap the pasta for gluten-free varieties or small rice noodles.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g (natural from tomatoes and vegetables)
- Sodium: 700mg (can be reduced with low-sodium broth)
Hearty Italian Sausage Pasta Soup Recipe to Warm Your Soul
Learn how to make delicious Italian Sausage Pasta Soup. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh, quality produce and good Italian sausage make all the difference. Growing up in England, my mum always said the best meals start with the best basics, and that’s stuck with me ever since. For this soup, I prefer using sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor that my kids tolerate well, but spicy sausage works beautifully if you like a bit of heat.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
If you’re short on fresh veggies, frozen spinach works well. For a gluten-free option, swap the pasta for gluten-free varieties or small rice noodles.
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Add dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add the pasta to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- In the last 2 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach or kale if using. Let it wilt gently into the soup.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top and some crusty bread for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Add dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add the pasta to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- In the last 2 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach or kale if using. Let it wilt gently into the soup.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top and some crusty bread for dipping.
Tips for Making the Best Italian Sausage Pasta Soup
Getting this soup just right is about layering flavors and paying attention to texture. From my restaurant kitchen days, I learned that letting ingredients develop slowly pays off in taste. Here are a few tips that have stuck with me: Learn more: Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe to Warm Your Soul
- Brown the sausage well for maximum flavor—don’t rush this step.
- Use fresh garlic and herbs when possible; they brighten the soup beautifully.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente as it will continue to soften slightly in the hot soup.
- Adding greens at the end preserves their vibrant colour and nutrients.
- Feel free to swap in different pasta shapes depending on what you have—small shapes work best for this soup.
- If the soup tastes too acidic, a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream can balance it.
With these tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish every time. Learn more: related recipe
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This soup is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for various occasions—from quick weeknight suppers to leisurely weekend lunches. I often serve it when friends drop by unexpectedly; it feels special but is surprisingly easy to pull together. Presentation-wise, a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a lovely pop of color.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast
- Serve alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten the meal
- Add warm garlic bread or focaccia for a satisfying crunch to dunk into the soup
- For a seasonal twist, swap the spinach for roasted butternut squash or mushrooms in autumn
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress and bring everyone closer around the table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftovers just as much as the fresh dish, which is a blessing when cooking for a busy household like mine. I always make a double batch and freeze half for those hectic days.
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much
- Reheat gently over low heat to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy or the sauce from separating
- For longer storage, freeze soup without pasta for up to 3 months; add fresh pasta when reheating
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?
The main ingredients for Italian Sausage Pasta Soup include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?
The total time to make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup ahead of time?
Yes, Italian Sausage Pasta Soup can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?
Italian Sausage Pasta Soup pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Italian Sausage Pasta Soup suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Italian Sausage Pasta Soup may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is one of those recipes that feels like home in a bowl. I hope it brings you as much comfort and joy as it does my family. If you try it, I’d love to hear how it turns out—sharing these food stories is what makes cooking so special to me. Happy cooking, and welcome to my kitchen!
