Sausage Minestrone Soup Recipe

Hearty, rustic, and bursting with flavor, Sausage Minestrone Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth to your table with every spoonful. This Italian-inspired soup takes the classic vegetable-packed minestrone and gives it a rich upgrade with savory sausage, creating a satisfying and nourishing meal all in one bowl. The blend of beans, pasta, and seasonal vegetables simmered in a flavorful tomato broth makes it a go-to for chilly nights or cozy family dinners.

What sets this version apart is the addition of sausage, which adds depth, spice, and richness that elevates the entire soup. It’s the kind of recipe that tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. Best of all, it’s versatile—easily adaptable to what you have on hand. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or freezing portions for later, this Sausage Minestrone Soup is a soul-warming favorite that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Satisfying – Loaded with sausage, beans, pasta, and vegetables for a filling, complete meal.
2. Flavor-Packed – The sausage infuses the broth with rich, savory goodness.
3. Meal Prep Friendly – Tastes even better the next day and stores beautifully.
4. Customizable – Swap in your favorite veggies, beans, or pasta.
5. One-Pot Simplicity – Minimal cleanup and easy cooking all in a single pot.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Celery
• Zucchini
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Red kidney beans
• Cannellini beans
• Small pasta (e.g., ditalini or elbow)
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Bay leaf
• Spinach or kale (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Variations

Vegetarian Version

Omit sausage and add extra beans or plant-based sausage. Use vegetable broth.

Spicy Twist

Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.

Gluten-Free Option

Swap traditional pasta for gluten-free noodles or rice.

Creamy Minestrone

Add a splash of cream or a handful of shredded cheese at the end.

Seasonal Veggies

Add or swap with whatever is in season—green beans, corn, peas, or squash.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and bay leaf. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Stir in Beans and Pasta

Add the beans and pasta. Simmer for 10–12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)

Stir in chopped spinach or kale and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until wilted.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Brown the sausage well to develop rich flavor.
• Cut vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Add pasta just before serving if making ahead to avoid mushiness.
• Adjust broth level depending on how thick you want the soup.
• Store Parmesan rind in the pot while simmering for extra umami.

How to Serve

• Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
• Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil on top.
• Enjoy as a stand-alone meal or as a starter for an Italian dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions (preferably without pasta) for up to 2 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens.

FAQs

1. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the sausage first, then add everything (except pasta and greens) to the slow cooker. Add pasta in the last 30 minutes.

2. What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage—mild or spicy—works best. You can also use chicken sausage.

3. Can I omit the pasta?

Yes. It’s still filling with just beans and veggies.

4. Can I use canned beans?

Definitely. Rinse and drain them before adding.

5. How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook it separately and add it to each bowl before serving.

6. What other greens can I use?

Kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens are all great alternatives to spinach.

7. Is it gluten-free?

Not by default, but use gluten-free pasta or rice to make it so.

8. Can I use leftover vegetables?

Yes. This soup is perfect for using up extra cooked veggies.

9. Does it freeze well?

Yes, especially without pasta. Freeze in airtight containers.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a large pot and freeze extras for future meals.

Conclusion

Sausage Minestrone Soup is everything you want in a comfort food: warm, filling, flavorful, and easy to make. With protein-rich sausage, nutrient-packed vegetables, and tender pasta in a tomato-based broth, it’s a complete one-pot meal that fits into any season or occasion. Whether you enjoy it fresh, freeze it for later, or pack it for lunch, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s homemade comfort at its best.

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