If you're craving a warm and hearty dish that transports you straight to the sun-kissed hills of Italy, look no further than this Rustic Italian Sausage Soup! Packed with savory Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and tender kale, this comforting soup is the perfect antidote to chilly evenings. With just 45 minutes from prep to table, you can whip up a delicious meal that serves six and impresses your family or guests. Dive into this recipe, and discover how to create a bowl of pure Italian bliss that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup pasta (e.g., ditalini)
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- Add Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the meat is browned and no longer pink.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté with the sausage for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes to develop flavors.
- Add pasta to the soup and cook for 8-10 minutes or until pasta is almost al dente.
- Stir in chopped kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until kale is wilted and tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh chopped parsley.
Tips
- Choose Quality Sausage: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality Italian sausage—either mild or spicy, depending on your preference. You can also use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even green beans can add a delightful twist.
- Pasta Perfection: Use small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo, as they absorb the flavors beautifully. Be careful not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue to cook slightly in the soup.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Garnish with Flair: Elevate your soup by garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
