Description
Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach and Pasta is a hearty, one-pot meal packed with bold flavors. Made with juicy Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, vibrant spinach, and a rich tomato-based broth, this comforting soup is perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days. Quick, easy, and full of nutrients, it’s a family favorite that can be customized to your taste!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb mild Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 can (14.5 oz) Italian-style diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or small pasta of choice)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
For Serving:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh Italian herbs (parsley or basil), optional
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it browns. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, celery, red bell pepper, and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Pasta:
- Pour in the chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes (with juice), and water. Stir to combine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Add the ditalini pasta, stir well, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Incorporate Spinach:
- Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and let it wilt into the soup. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Alternative Greens: Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
- Make it Heartier: Add a can of drained, rinsed cannellini beans.
- Different Pasta Options: Swap ditalini for elbow macaroni or small shells.
