Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul, and this Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup is the epitome of cozy cooking. Perfect for chilly evenings, this rich and creamy dish combines savory Italian sausage with tender pasta and vibrant greens, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. Each spoonful promises a burst of delightful flavors, making it a favorite not just for family dinners but also for cozy gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a meal that wraps you in warmth!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh spinach or kale, a handful
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the soup light.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes, bringing this delicious mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream and dried Italian herbs, mixing everything until well combined and the soup takes on a creamy texture.
- Add the uncooked pasta, cooking according to package instructions until it reaches an al dente perfection, typically around 8-10 minutes.
- In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt and incorporate into the soup.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring each bite is full of flavor.
- Serve the soup hot, crowned with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Notes or Tips
For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering the broth. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Additionally, feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes basic sautéing and simmering techniques. Browning the sausage properly enhances the flavor profile, while simmering allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully. When adding the pasta, check it frequently to prevent overcooking—no one wants mushy pasta in their soup!
FAQ
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup can be made a day in advance; just reheat gently on the stove. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the broth, so you might need to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
Is it possible to freeze the soup? While you can freeze the soup, it’s best to freeze it without the pasta. Cooked pasta can become mushy when reheated. Just store the soup base, and add freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to enjoy it!
Conclusion
This Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup is not only easy to make but also a delightful dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. Perfect for those busy weeknights or a leisurely Sunday lunch, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Enjoy every spoonful, and share it with loved ones for an extra touch of joy!