What ingredients do I need to make authentic Italian sausage soup?

To make authentic Italian sausage soup, you will need Italian sausage (spicy or sweet, based on preference), onions, garlic, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, cannellini or great northern beans, chicken or vegetable broth, kale or spinach, olive oil, and Italian seasoning like basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. These ingredients combine to create a rich, hearty soup with layers of flavor reflecting traditional Italian cuisine.

How do I prepare Italian sausage soup so the sausage stays flavorful but not greasy?

Brown the Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat before adding vegetables. This step prevents the soup from becoming greasy while sealing in the sausage’s spices and juices, ensuring every bite has a savory, well-seasoned taste without excess oil floating in the broth.

Can I make Italian sausage soup ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, Italian sausage soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely after cooking, then transfer it into airtight freezer containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain texture. Avoid freezing soup with fresh greens, as they can become mushy; add greens fresh when reheating.

What are some good side dishes to serve with Italian sausage soup?

Italian sausage soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a fresh green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider serving with polenta or roasted vegetables. The crispness of these sides complements the rich, spicy flavors of the soup, balancing the meal nicely.

How can I adjust the spice level in Italian sausage soup?

To control spice, choose sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor or spicy sausage to turn up the heat. You can also adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and black pepper in the recipe. For less heat, start with a small pinch and add more gradually, tasting as you go. Adding dairy like a splash of cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan can also reduce spiciness and add richness.

Italian Sausage Soup With Hearty Vegetables And Cheese

Name: Italian Sausage Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: – 16 ounces Italian sausage; – 1/4 cup butter; – 1/2 medium onion chopped small; – 2 sticks celery chopped small; – 2 cloves garlic minced; – 6 tablespoons flour; – 4 cups low sodium chicken broth; – 2 cups half-and-half; – 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; – 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); – 1 pound Russet potatoes peeled and diced small; – Salt and pepper to taste

Description

🥣 This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup blends savory sausage with hearty vegetables for a comforting and satisfying meal.
🧀 The addition of cheese and half-and-half enriches the broth, creating a creamy texture that warms you up on chilly days.

Ingredients

– 16 ounces Italian sausage

– 1/4 cup butter

– 1/2 medium onion chopped small

– 2 sticks celery chopped small

– 2 cloves garlic minced

– 6 tablespoons flour

– 4 cups low sodium chicken broth

– 2 cups half-and-half

– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

– 1 pound Russet potatoes peeled and diced small

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1-First, prepare your veggies by chopping the onion, celery, and potatoes, and mincing the garlic to ensure everything cooks evenly.

2-Next, in the same pot, add butter and sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until they soften, which takes about 3-4 minutes, building a flavorful base.

3-Then, stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for another minute to thicken the soup without lumps.

4-After that, pour in the chicken broth, half-and-half, Worcestershire sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes, then add the diced potatoes and bring everything to a simmer.

5-Finally, let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender, and season with salt and pepper to taste for the perfect finish.

Notes

🍲 Tip: Use low sodium broth to better control saltiness.
🌶️ Tip: Adjust red pepper flakes to your desired spice level.
🥄 Tip: Stir constantly after adding flour to avoid lumps in the soup.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 500 mg
Fat: 22 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 15 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: Italian sausage soup, creamy soup, hearty soup, vegetable soup