Description
This hearty Sausage and Vegetable Soup is packed with flavorful Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a savory broth. Perfect for cooler weather or when you’re craving a comforting, nutritious meal, this soup is easy to prepare and full of satisfying flavors. Serve it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove any excess grease, if necessary.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot with the sausage. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir to combine. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and bring the soup to a simmer.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add the Zucchini and Spinach (Optional):
- Stir in the zucchini and spinach (if using). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the spinach is wilted.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing Instructions: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before serving. The flavors improve as it sits.
- Variations: You can substitute the sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner version. Add other vegetables like green beans or kale for additional variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian