Hearty Sausage Minestrone Soup Recipe

Introduction

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that brings warmth and richness to your bowl. With its origins rooted in Italian cuisine, minestrone traditionally features a medley of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a savory broth. This variation takes the classic to the next level by incorporating flavorful mild Italian sausage, creating a robust base that complements the earthy vegetables and tender beans. It’s a complete, well-balanced meal that delivers satisfaction with every spoonful.

Perfect for cooler nights or anytime you need a nourishing, filling dish, this soup is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or hosting a cozy dinner, Sausage Minestrone Soup checks all the boxes. The layers of flavor—from sautéed aromatics to slow-simmered sausage and broth—make this more than just another soup. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s hearty enough to stand on its own, yet flexible enough to accommodate your pantry staples or garden vegetables. Add a spoonful of basil pesto and a sprinkle of parmesan on top, and you’ve got an elevated, rustic meal ready to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Deep, Savory Flavor

The Italian sausage adds a rich, meaty base that infuses the broth with bold, savory goodness.

2. Nutritious and Balanced

Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vegetables, this soup is both hearty and healthy.

3. Great for Meal Prep

It stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for make-ahead lunches or easy weeknight dinners.

4. One-Pot Convenience

Everything cooks in a single pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor development.

5. Customizable Ingredients

You can swap in your favorite veggies or beans, making it adaptable to what you have on hand.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• Mild Italian sausage
• Onion
• Celery
• Carrots
• Tomato paste
• Garlic
• Dried oregano
• Italian-style diced tomatoes
• Chicken broth
• Cannellini beans
• Red kidney beans
• Zucchini
• Yellow squash
• Dry ditalini pasta
• Baby spinach

To Garnish:

• Basil pesto
• Grated parmesan cheese

Variations

• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and substitute vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
• Add Heat: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
• Switch the Pasta: Use small shells, orzo, or elbow macaroni if ditalini isn’t available.
• Try Different Beans: Chickpeas or black beans can be used in place of cannellini or kidney beans.
• Include More Greens: Add kale or Swiss chard instead of or in addition to spinach for added nutrition.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings

Stir in the tomato paste and oregano. Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the paste to caramelize slightly and deepen in flavor.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a boil.

Step 5: Add Beans and Vegetables

Add the cannellini beans, kidney beans, zucchini, and yellow squash. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Finish with Spinach

Add the baby spinach and stir until just wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of basil pesto and a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Brown the Sausage Well: Take time to caramelize the sausage—it adds depth to the soup’s base.
• Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling after adding the pasta and spinach to prevent mushy texture.
• Cook Pasta Separately (Optional): For leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to each bowl to keep it from soaking up all the broth.
• Use Quality Broth: A good-quality chicken broth makes a big difference in flavor.
• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and open cans before you begin cooking for smooth workflow.

How to Serve

Serve Sausage Minestrone Soup hot with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad. Garnish with fresh basil, pesto, and shaved parmesan to elevate the presentation. For a complete meal, pair with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze the soup (without the pasta if possible) in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.

2. What type of sausage works best?

Mild Italian sausage is recommended, but you can also use spicy or turkey sausage for variation.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely—just be aware that pasta may soften, so consider freezing without it and adding fresh when reheating.

4. How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, green beans, or peas make great additions.

6. Is it okay to use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried oregano is used here, but you can add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for more freshness.

7. What pasta substitutes work well?

Orzo, elbow macaroni, or mini farfalle are good alternatives to ditalini.

8. How spicy is this soup?

With mild sausage, it’s not spicy. Add red pepper flakes or hot sausage for extra heat.

9. Can I use water instead of broth?

You can, but broth adds more flavor. If using water, consider adding extra seasonings.

10. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

Let it simmer longer uncovered, or mash some of the beans for a creamier consistency.

Conclusion

Sausage Minestrone Soup is the ultimate comfort food—nourishing, satisfying, and full of vibrant flavors and textures. With its rich tomato base, hearty beans, colorful vegetables, and flavorful sausage, this one-pot meal is both simple and soul-warming. Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend meal prep, or cozy gatherings, it’s a reliable and delicious recipe that you’ll return to time and again. Top it with pesto and parmesan for a gourmet touch, and enjoy a bowl of warmth straight from your kitchen.

Print