Sausage Soup

by

Serves: 4–6 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • For the Soup:
    • 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
    • 1 medium onion, chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 medium carrots, chopped
    • 2 celery stalks, chopped
    • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
    • 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
    • 1 bay leaf
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
    • 1 large potato, peeled and diced (optional, for added heartiness)
    • 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional, for greens)
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • For Serving (Optional):
    • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
    • Crusty bread or crackers

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sausage:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the sausage and break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage for about 5–7 minutes, until it’s fully cooked and crumbled.
    • Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set aside. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
    • Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
    • Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Build the Soup:
    • Return the sausage to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, and salt and pepper.
    • Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
    • If adding potatoes, add them to the soup and cook until they are tender, about 10–15 minutes.
  4. Add the Greens (Optional):
    • If using spinach or kale, stir them into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt and add color and nutrition to the soup.
  5. Serve:
    • Once everything is cooked through and the soup is flavorful, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
    • Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.

This sausage soup is comforting and hearty, with a rich, savory flavor from the sausage and a healthy dose of vegetables. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold day!

Leave a Comment