Sausage Minestrone Soup Recipe

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that blends the rich flavors of Italian sausage with a medley of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a savory tomato broth. This soup is a wholesome and satisfying meal in one bowl—packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or looking for a simple yet nourishing weeknight dinner, this robust soup hits all the right notes.

The beauty of minestrone lies in its versatility. With its rustic Italian roots, it welcomes whatever vegetables and pantry staples you have on hand. Adding sausage takes it to another level, infusing the broth with layers of flavor and turning a light vegetable soup into a full-bodied, filling dish. From cozy family dinners to make-ahead lunches, Sausage Minestrone Soup is a one-pot wonder you’ll come back to time and time again. It’s rich, comforting, and best of all—easy to make with everyday ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Satisfying – Packed with protein, fiber, and veggies, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
2. Incredibly Flavorful – Sausage adds bold seasoning that transforms the entire soup.
3. One-Pot Convenience – Everything cooks in a single pot, making prep and cleanup a breeze.
4. Customizable – Easily adapt to what’s in your pantry or fridge.
5. Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day and freezes well.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Celery
• Zucchini
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Red kidney beans
• Cannellini beans
• Pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow)
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Bay leaf
• Spinach or kale (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Variations

Vegetarian Version

Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth—add extra beans or plant-based sausage for protein.

Spicy Kick

Use hot Italian sausage and add red pepper flakes for a spicier version.

Gluten-Free

Swap pasta for gluten-free noodles or rice, and double-check canned ingredients.

More Veggies

Toss in green beans, peas, or corn for extra color and texture.

Slow Cooker Adaptation

Brown sausage and then transfer all ingredients (except pasta and greens) to a slow cooker. Add pasta and greens in the last 30 minutes.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

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

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

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

Step 4: Add Beans and Pasta

Add both kinds of beans and uncooked pasta. Simmer until pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Greens

Add spinach or kale (if using) and cook for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use a sturdy pot like a Dutch oven to maintain even heat.
• Brown the sausage well—it builds a flavorful base for the soup.
• Don’t overcook the pasta or it may become mushy.
• Add greens at the end to retain their color and nutrients.
• Make it in bulk—this soup freezes and reheats beautifully.

How to Serve

Serve Sausage Minestrone Soup with:

• Crusty bread or garlic toast
• A light side salad
• Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino on top
• A drizzle of olive oil or a splash of lemon for brightness
• A glass of red wine for a cozy, comforting meal

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 without the pasta (it can become mushy). Add fresh pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to thin, if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup without sausage?

Yes! Omit the sausage for a vegetarian version or use plant-based sausage alternatives.

2. What type of sausage is best?

Italian sausage—either mild or spicy—adds the most flavor to this dish.

3. Can I use canned beans?

Absolutely. Drain and rinse them before adding to reduce sodium.

4. What if I don’t have tomato paste?

You can skip it or add a bit more diced tomatoes for a lighter broth.

5. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep and actually tastes better the next day.

6. How can I thicken the soup?

Mash a few beans or add more tomato paste to thicken the broth slightly.

7. What pasta shapes work best?

Small shapes like ditalini, elbows, or small shells work well and don’t overpower the soup.

8. Can I add rice instead of pasta?

Yes, just adjust cooking time accordingly—add cooked rice at the end to avoid overcooking.

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

Cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving if you plan to store leftovers.

10. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Sausage Minestrone Soup is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making on repeat—it’s warm, hearty, and filled with nourishing ingredients that come together easily in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving comfort food, this soup has you covered. With its rich tomato broth, robust sausage, and hearty mix of beans and vegetables, every spoonful is a satisfying, soul-warming bite.

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