Description:
Creamy Italian Sausage & Pasta Soup is a comforting bowl of goodness that combines the hearty flavors of Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy tomato-infused broth. Loaded with vegetables and seasoned with Italian herbs, this soup is the perfect dish to warm up chilly evenings or serve as a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Origin:
This recipe is inspired by the rustic flavors of Italian cuisine, where hearty soups are a staple. By incorporating creamy elements and pasta, it bridges the gap between a classic soup and a comforting pasta dish.
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Component:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a thicker soup)
For the Pasta:
- 1 1/2 cups small pasta (e.g., ditalini, elbow, or shells)
Optional Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned. Remove any excess grease if necessary.
- Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Build the Soup Base:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Cook the Pasta:
- While the soup simmers, cook the pasta separately in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Add the Creamy Touch:
- If using flour for a thicker soup, whisk it into the heavy cream before adding it to the pot. Stir the cream mixture into the soup and simmer for 5 more minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Combine and Serve:
- Stir the cooked pasta into the soup just before serving to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Success:
- For added depth, deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine before adding the broth.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Use baby spinach or kale for extra nutrients—stir in just before serving.
Recommendations:
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If reheating, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency.
Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 6 servings):
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
Creamy Italian Sausage & Pasta Soup is the ultimate bowl of comfort, combining rich, creamy flavors with hearty ingredients that leave everyone satisfied. ✨
