Description
Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach and Pasta is a hearty, flavorful meal made with Italian sausage, vegetables, pasta, and fresh spinach. Ready in just 30 minutes, this one-pot soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Enjoy it with crusty bread and Parmesan for a complete, comforting meal.
Ingredients
1 lb mild Italian sausage (or spicy for extra heat)
1 onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 medium carrots, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (preferably Italian tomatoes)
2 cups water
1 ½ cups dry ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Italian seasoning (optional)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Fresh herbs (optional, such as parsley or basil)
Instructions
Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into smaller pieces. Drain any excess grease.
Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, celery, bell pepper, and carrots to the pot with the sausage. Cook for 3 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic and seasoning, cooking for another minute.
Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and water. Scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot to incorporate the flavors.
Cook the Pasta:
Bring the soup to a simmer and stir in the pasta. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
Add Spinach and Finish:
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Notes
Add Beans: For extra fiber, add a can of drained cannellini beans.
Make it Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for more heat.
Swap Greens: Try using kale or swiss chard instead of spinach for a different flavor and texture.
Slow Cooker Option: Brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients except spinach to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 3-4 hours, adding spinach during the last 15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
