Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. Its creamy base, combined with savory sausage, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables, creates a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply looking for a hearty lunch, this soup’s unique blend of flavors will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Italian Sausage Pasta Soup comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite veggies or using different types of pasta.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—this soup tastes even better the next day!
• Comforting & Filling: The creamy texture and wholesome ingredients make this soup both comforting and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Below are essential items that will help you whip up this delicious soup with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Slotted spoon
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without spilling over.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked sausage while leaving behind excess grease.
• Whisk: Helps in creating a smooth slurry when combining flour with broth.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to prepare Italian Sausage Pasta Soup:

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage (see note 1)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups finely diced yellow onion (1 large onion)
• 2 cups finely diced carrots (4–5 carrots)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

For Thickening and Flavor

• 2 tablespoons flour
• 7-1/2 cups chicken broth

For Pasta and Creaminess

• 2 cups mini bowtie pasta (see note 2)
• 1-1/2 cups heavy cream

For Greens and Garnish

• 2-1/2 packed cups finely chopped kale
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 1/2 packed cup grated Parmesan cheese (sandy texture, see note 3)

Optional Serving Suggestions

• Hearty buttered bread (optional, for serving)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)

How to Make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot over high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add sausage, salt, and pepper. Sear for a minute on each side until browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage while leaving one tablespoon of grease in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until tender, which takes about 7–9 minutes. Sprinkle flour on top and cook for another minute while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Create the Broth Base

Gradually add one cup of chicken broth while whisking constantly to create a slurry. Slowly add the remaining broth while whisking and scraping the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Bring the broth to a boil, then add mini bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions but reduce cooking time by one minute. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Final Touches

Lower heat. Add heavy cream, chopped kale, and sun-dried tomatoes into the pot. Stir well as you gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted. Return cooked sausage to the pot and season with salt as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot with hearty buttered bread on the side. If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for some added heat!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes can elevate this delicious soup to a whole new level.

With Hearty Buttered Bread

• Toast thick slices of bread and slather them with butter for a delightful crunch. This combo complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving. It adds a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

With a Side Salad

• A light salad made from mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

Spicy Kick with Red Pepper Flakes

• For those who enjoy some heat, offer red pepper flakes at the table. Guests can sprinkle as much as they like for added spice.

Served in Bowls with Breadsticks

• Present the soup in bowls alongside warm breadsticks. They are perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of broth.

With Cheese Toasts

• Make cheese toasts by melting cheese atop slices of bread under the broiler. These cheesy bites make for an indulgent pairing with the soup.

How to Perfect Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Creating the perfect Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to help you achieve that creamy, savory goodness:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality broth will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Taste your soup as it cooks; add salt and pepper little by little to avoid over-seasoning.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your pasta just until tender prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the soup.
• Incorporate Greens Wisely: Add kale or spinach towards the end of cooking to keep them vibrant and nutrient-rich.
• Experiment with Broths: Try using different broths, such as vegetable or beef broth, for varying flavor profiles.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Italian Sausage Pasta Soup can make for a complete meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy baguette slices brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess that balances out the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring sweetness and depth, complementing the flavors of the dish.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs provide a delightful bite alongside your soup.
5. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a fresh appetizer.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies offers protein and fiber while keeping things healthy.
7. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that pairs well with any soup.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add warmth and sweetness, rounding out your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian Sausage Pasta Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta for too long, it will become mushy. Follow package instructions closely and reduce the cooking time by one minute.
• Ignoring the seasonings: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance the overall taste.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the base of your soup and greatly affects its flavor. Choose a high-quality chicken broth for a richer, more satisfying taste.
• Not sautéing enough vegetables: Sautéing onions, carrots, and garlic properly builds depth in flavor. Cook them until they are tender and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the gradual addition of cream: Adding cream too quickly can cause clumping. Incorporate it slowly while stirring to ensure a smooth texture.
• Forgetting to reserve some cooking liquid: If your soup thickens too much after cooking, it’s essential to have some reserved broth on hand. This helps you adjust the consistency as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Italian Sausage Pasta Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

• You can freeze this soup for up to 2–3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Italian Sausage Pasta Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding additional broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Italian Sausage Pasta Soup:

What can I substitute for Italian sausage in this recipe?

You can use ground turkey or beef as an alternative. It will still provide great flavor with a slightly different texture.

Can I make Italian Sausage Pasta Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option without sacrificing flavor.

How do I thicken my Italian Sausage Pasta Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can add more flour at the beginning or use cornstarch mixed with water as a slurry towards the end of cooking.

Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to incorporate spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins and vegetables based on your taste. Give it a try; it’s perfect for cozy dinners!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Italian Turkey Pasta Soup

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Italian Sausage Pasta Soup is a comforting, creamy dish that delivers warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. This delightful soup blends savory ground turkey with tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a rich flavor profile that makes it perfect for cozy dinners or hearty lunches. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite veggies or pasta types, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s fantastic for meal prep; the flavors deepen and improve as it sits. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup that’s sure to impress!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 cups diced yellow onion
• 2 cups diced carrots
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 7–1/2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups mini bowtie pasta
• 1–1/2 cups heavy cream
• 2–1/2 cups chopped kale
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large pot over high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add ground turkey along with salt and pepper. Sear until browned, then remove the turkey while leaving a bit of grease in the pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium and sauté onions, carrots, and garlic in the same pot until tender (7–9 minutes). Sprinkle flour on top and cook for another minute while stirring constantly.
3. Gradually whisk in one cup of chicken broth to create a slurry, then add remaining broth while scraping the bottom of the pot.
4. Bring to a boil, then add mini bowtie pasta. Cook according to package instructions but reduce time by one minute to avoid mushiness.
5. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream, kale, and sun-dried tomatoes until well mixed. Return cooked turkey to the pot and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve hot with your choice of bread or toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 790mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg