Introduction
This hearty Italian sausage soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings. Packed with flavorful ingredients like Italian sausage, beans, and ditalini pasta, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. This recipe is easy to make, especially when using a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound Italian sausage
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini or great northern beans, drained and rinsed
32 ounces beef broth
2 cups water
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 cup ditalini pasta
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
This Italian sausage soup is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate various vegetables and proteins. Enjoy this meal with crusty bread for dipping, and savor the warmth it brings to your table.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the Italian sausage. As it begins to brown, incorporate the finely chopped onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic. Stir frequently until the sausage is thoroughly cooked, and the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Once the sausage and vegetables are fully cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet. Carefully transfer the mixture into the slow cooker, ensuring all ingredients are included.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
To the slow cooker, add the two cans of diced tomatoes (with juice), the drained and rinsed kidney beans, the drained and rinsed cannellini or great northern beans, the beef broth, water, and the Italian seasoning. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
Step 4: Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. Make sure not to lift the lid during the cooking process to maintain even heat.
Step 5: Add Pasta
In the last 30 minutes of the cooking time, stir in the ditalini pasta. Mix well and cover again, allowing the pasta to cook in the soup until it is tender.
Notes
Storage
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Freezing
This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Variations
Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach. You can also substitute the pasta with another shape or omit it for a lower-carb option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, optionally with crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for added flavor.
Cook techniques
Cooking Sausage
To cook the Italian sausage, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, mixing in the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic to soften while the sausage cooks.
Transferring to Slow Cooker
Once the sausage and vegetables are cooked, drain any excess grease. Carefully transfer the mixture to a slow cooker to continue cooking with the remaining ingredients.
Combining Ingredients
In the slow cooker, add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, beef broth, water, and Italian seasoning. Use a spoon to stir everything together for an even distribution of flavors.
Slow Cooking
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and develop fully.
Adding Pasta
During the final 30 minutes of cooking, add the ditalini pasta to the slow cooker. Stir gently to incorporate, ensuring the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the soup’s flavors.
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ditalini pasta with other small pasta shapes like elbows or small shells, but adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it. The flavors will deepen over time.
What can I add for more flavor?
Adding ingredients like a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Just allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This hearty Italian sausage soup is a comforting dish, perfect for chilly days or gatherings. The combination of various beans and vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value. By allowing the ingredients to meld together over slow cooking, you achieve a rich and satisfying meal that is sure to please.
Chili Mac
Combine cooked pasta with chili seasoning, ground meat, and cheese for a hearty and filling dish.
Vegetable Bean Soup
Replace sausage with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly soup.
Pasta E Fagioli
Incorporate ditalini pasta and cannellini beans with a rich tomato base for a classic Italian meal.
Sausage and Peppers
Sauté Italian sausage with bell peppers and onions for a flavorful dish that pairs well with crusty bread.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the sausage mixture to fill halved bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender for a delicious twist.
