Description
This hearty Sausage Soup combines flavorful Italian sausage with nutritious beans, fresh spinach, and aromatic vegetables simmered in a savory tomato and herb broth. Perfect for a comforting and easy-to-make dinner, it offers a balanced meal with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors, ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed, for lean sausage)
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Topping
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat if using lean sausage. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles until browned, about 5–6 minutes.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables: Add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes to blend the flavors and tenderize the vegetables.
- Add Beans and Greens: Add the drained and rinsed white or cannellini beans and chopped spinach or kale to the pot. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and the soup is heated through.
- Adjust Seasonings and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, topped with optional grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor.
Notes
- This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for a satisfying meal.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
